True and Fascinating Canadian History
Vet of the Month: April 2010
Reg.#1649, NWMP Staff Sergeant William Haslett
Over time, it has not been unusual to find one, two or more family members serving in the Force. This storyby Friend of the Force, author Mr. Earl Haslett is such an example. The Haslett family name stretches back to thefounding days of the NWMP and the Haslett name lives up to its honourable reputation with new generations in the RCMP in the present day.
Earl Haslett begins by saying; 'Two of my relatives served in the North West Mounted Police (NWMP) before 1900. My first relative was Reg.#1649, Constable William Haslett and William's brother was Reg.#2017, Cst. Henry Haslett.
The life stories of both Haslett brothers can be found in Earl Haslett's book titled:' Along the River Foyle - A Haslett (Hazlett) Family of Ulster'. A copy of the Haslett book can be found in the RCMP library.
NWMP William Haslett was born on October 9, 1864 in Belleville, Ontario. His military service began when he joined the Midland Battalion which led him to see action in the Riel Rebellion. Shortly afterwards, Haslett joined the Noth West Mounted Police on October 24, 1885. He received regular promotions along the way.
S/Sgt. William Haslett's policing service was extensive as he was posted to the following places as listed by his relative Mr. Earl Haslett; Regina; 'F' Division at Prince Albert; 'B' Division in Regina; Fort Saskatchewan; Wood Mountain; Lake Bennett in the Yukon; Tagish Post and Dawson in the Yukon; Regina Depot; Erwood; Peace River-Yukon Trail Party; Fort MacLeod; Crowsnest Pass; Fort MacLeod.
We do not know exactly when Haslett received each of his promotions but his performance must have been very satisfactory because he gained the rank of Staff Sergeant. In 1908, Haslett was posted to Frank Detachment in British Columbia as the NCO In-Charge when Reg.#4584, Cst. George E. Willmet was murdered there on April 12, 1908.(RCMP Honour Roll #32)
S/Sgt. Haslett's Service Record only lists one minor slip-up which resulted in him appearing in Service Court. He was convicted of 'tyrannical conduct to an inferior' and fined $15.00 by Superintendent Primrose.
William Haslett left the Force on April 6, 1911. He was granted a life pension of $286.20 per year.
Mr. Haslett must have remained eager to find more excitement in his life. After serving in the NWMP for over twenty four years, he joined the Military Police Corps as a Lieutenant and served in WWI.
Mr. Haslett died on March 27, 1941 in Toronto, ON. He and his brother Henry were buried in the Belleville Cemetery, Belleville, ON.
RIP
Author and relative, Mr. Earl Haslett said that he continues to have an interest in the RCMP as his nephew, Allan Haslett is in the Force, and a great niece married a recent graduate from Regina's 'Depot'. The Haslett history and it's affiliation to the Force continues on to this day.
Congratulations to all Haslett's but let's recall Reg.#1649, Staff Sergeant William Haslett, NWMP. We offer him a tip of the Stetson for this month of April, 2010.
Reporting from Fort Healy,
J. J. Healy
April 23, 2010
