Troop 17 made RCMP history 52 years ago this month

By Joan Janzen

According to archives from the StarPhoenix shared by Historic Saskatchewan, a new chapter in Canadian policing history began on Sept. 16, 1974. That day, 32 women were sworn in as the first female regular members of the RCMP.

On Sept. 16, 1974, 32 female recruits were sworn in as the first female regular members of the RCMP. PHOTO COURTESY STARPHOENIX ARCHIVES/HISTORIC SASKATCHEWAN

They became known as Troop 17 and travelled to the RCMP Academy, Depot Division, in Regina for training. The women ranged in age from 19 to 29 and represented every Canadian province except Prince Edward Island. Their training included many of the same demanding requirements faced by male recruits, and on March 3, 1975, Troop 17 graduated from Depot.