Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, later today, residents of Hay River will gather, as they do every October 6th, to remember the life and honour the sacrifice of Constable Christopher Worden.
Sixteen years ago today, on October 6, 2007, at 5:03 a.m., Constable Chris Worden of the Hay River RCMP detachment responded to a call for service. In the tragic events that followed, Constable Worden lost his life in the line of duty. He was just 30 years old, with a wife and 8monthold daughter at home.
According to his wife, Constable Worden would often say that he loved being a Mountie, and there was nothing else he'd rather do. He was described as a sheepdog, fearless when it came to protecting those who could not protect themselves. Mr. Speaker, for his sacrifice he proved his commitment to protecting others and serving his community. His commitment, as he proved, was unwavering and unquestionable.
Constable Worden was posted to Hay River in 2005. He was very communityminded and quickly became a member of the community, not just somebody passing through town. The impact he made on the community in the two years he was in Hay River is undeniable. This is evidenced by that fact that 16 years later, dozens of residents still gather for an annual vigil.
This year, the vigil will commence at the community centre at 12:30 p.m. and make its way to the Hay River RCMP detachment where there will be a brief dedication of a new plaque. Unfortunately, the House is sitting today so myself and the MLA for Hay River South are unable to attend, but on behalf of both of us I want to extend our condolences to Constable Worden's family, his friends, the RCMP, and the community. We thank and honour Constable Worden for his sacrifice. It will never be forgotten. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Thank you, Member for Hay River North. Our continued thoughts and prayers with the family and all RCMP throughout our territory for the work they do. Mahsi.
