November 1st, 2022
Historically, the marshal’s baton is a decorated object, a symbol of military power. In France, it was the highest military distinction. Like the royal regalia, it is an emblem with a strong symbolic dimension. The baton is also found in the scouts. Decorated and provided with a pennant, it proudly displays the colors and the emblem animal of the patrol.
As part of the commemoration of our centennial in 2025, we wanted to adapt the symbolism of the baton to materialize the sense of belonging and pride we have in being Commissionaires.
The baton is also a relay baton! We have therefore created the “Centennial Baton” and its flag, which will be relayed between the various military bases and civilian divisions with which we are involved.
As such, we want to put forward our mission for almost one hundred years now: to contribute to the safety and well-being of Canadians by providing meaningful employment opportunities primarily to veterans, former members of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Canadian Armed Forces reservists, police services and their families.
The transfer from military bases to civilians symbolizes the ability of this mission to expand and benefit a wider audience. It creates a virtuous circle that benefits not only former military personnel, but also civilian job seekers and the companies that benefit from our services.
“Symbolizing unity and camaraderie, the baton journey will last an incredible 500 days and cover over 5,000 miles. We hope to have many Commissionaires baton bearers in each region.”
Gord Winkel, Chair of the Commissionaires National Board of Directors.
The “Centennial Baton” is the perfect representation of our gratitude to the veterans and civilians who protect the Canadian communities in which they live and work.
After starting it’s journey in Newfoundland at the beginning of the summer, the baton is in Quebec for the month of November!