True and Fascinating Canadian History
Fortieth Anniversary of Women in the RCMP
1974 - 2014
A Very Special Corporal
And
The First in RCMP History
Corporal Patricia Anne Harrish
by J. J. Healy
And
The First in RCMP History
Patricia Anne Harrish joined the Force in November 1980. She was posted to various provinces across Canada including to the North.
History was made in the North West Territories when [then] Corporal Patricia Anne Harrish assumed command of Arviat Detachment, thereby becoming the first RCMP woman to become a Detachment Commander in the NWT.
For her dedication, sacrifice and commitment, Staff Sergeant Patricia Anne Harrish well deserves to be congratulated!
Staff Sergeant Harrish retired from the Force in 2006.
After the RCMP, Patricia then was employed with Alberta's Automobile Association. The following notes were taken from the AMA website.
"Hello, I’m Pat! I began offering in-car instruction at AMA in 2016, but have over four decades of driving experience in total. After seeing the depth of training that was offered to my daughter when she took Driver Education at AMA, I was inspired to share that positive experience with others.
My passion for safety on our roadways is apparent in everything I teach, especially my favourite skill, risk assessment. As a retired police officer, I believe that having a full appreciation for the risks around us is one of the most fundamental skills to keep drivers safe. Nothing is more rewarding than seeing my students take that knowledge and apply it to real life. The pride I see when they master a new driving skill makes what I do so satisfying."
Alberta's Automobile Association
