AS Canadians prepare to pause and remember the courage, sacrifice, and service of those who have defended Canada, Coquitlam RCMP say they are honoured to join local veterans, Legion members, and community partners in Remembrance Day commemorations in Coquitlam and Port Coquitlam.
This year, remembrance takes on added significance through Coquitlam RCMP’s participation in the Port Coquitlam Legion’s historic Time Capsule Project. The initiative serves as a lasting tribute to the generations of Canadians who have served their communities and country, ensuring their legacy will be remembered by future generations.
In July, Coquitlam RCMP joined the Port Coquitlam Legion in celebrating its 100th anniversary year and historic Time Capsule Project. As a symbol of the strong relationship between the RCMP and the communities they serve, the Legion invited Coquitlam RCMP to place the first item into the capsule. The honour recognized the RCMP’s longstanding commitment to public safety and service.
Cpl. Ryan Moore and Staff-Sgt. Kimball Matsumoto represented Coquitlam RCMP at the ceremony. A Coquitlam RCMP Detachment challenge coin was contributed to the project and wrapped in a section of Moore’s General Duty uniform shirt sleeve, complete with the current RCMP shoulder flash. The sleeve also contains a personal message from Moore to future RCMP officers and community leaders, which is intended to be read publicly when the capsule is opened on November 11, 2076.
Photo: Coquitlam RCMP
“Knowing this artifact will remain sealed for the next 50 years is both humbling and inspiring,” said Moore. “Being entrusted with the first contribution to the capsule reflects the strong bond between the RCMP, the Legion, and our community. I hope future generations who open it gain an appreciation for the dedication to service and public safety that connects us across generations.”
Artifact Selection:
Beyond its symbolic value, the uniform sleeve also serves a practical purpose. While researching options for long-term preservation, Moore learned that storing the commemorative challenge coin in a plastic protective sleeve for 50 years could increase the risk of material degradation and potential damage to the artifact. Instead, the challenge coin was secured within the uniform sleeve, providing a stable form of protection while creating a unique dual artifact.
Together, the challenge coin and uniform sleeve preserve a tangible connection to today’s RCMP officers and the traditions of the Coquitlam RCMP detachment. The inclusion of both items offers future generations a glimpse into contemporary policing, service, and community connection, while requiring minimal space within the time capsule.
The time capsule will be buried during Remembrance Day commemorations on November 11. Officers from Coquitlam RCMP will also take part in local observances, marching in the Coquitlam and Port Coquitlam Cenotaph ceremonies alongside veterans, Legion members, and community partners as they honour those who have served and sacrificed for Canada.
