Medicine Hat police chief Alan Murphy recognizes Garet Van Riper, who designed a shoulder patch to celebrate the services 125th anniversary this year.--NEWS PHOTO BRENDAN MILLER
To commemorate the Medicine Hat Police Service’s 125th anniversary this year, police reached out to the community to design a shoulder patch to celebrate the occasion.
The winning submission was designed and created by lifelong Medicine Hat resident Garet Van Riper, who was honoured at Wednesday’s Police Commission meeting with a shadowbox plaque and commemorative licence plate.
“The design is so very meaningful to the history in the City of Medicine Hat and it was amazing that Garet took the time to do this for us,” said chief Alan Murphy.
The shoulder patch was designed with the history of the police service in mind and incorporates iconic landmarks like the Saamis Tepee and Finlay Bridge.
Above the Tepee is a glowing gas light that symbols the “Gas City,” while the core of the badge lies the Medicine Hat Police Service Heraldic Crest.
The Heraldic Crest was bestowed up the Medicine Hat Police Service during its centennial anniversary celebrated Jan. 13, 1999, and is a symbol of pride and history.
