A New Brunswick Mountie who died in the line of duty will soon be honoured by fellow service members when his name is added to the national cenotaph in Regina, Sask.

Const. Leo Tyler Francis was 32-years-old when he died on July 5, 1996, from injuries sustained in a motor vehicle crash while he was representing the RCMP at a Pioneer Days event in Oromocto, N.B.

Regina, which is home to RCMP Depot division, hosts a gathering of Mounties every September for a national memorial service.

Francis’ name will be added to the cenotaph — which serves as a memorial to fallen RCMP members who have died in the line of duty since 1876 — and officially unveiled at this year’s ceremony, scheduled for Sept. 8, 2019.

Francis’ family provided this statement accompanying a press release from the RMCP:

“Constable Leo Tyler Francis was more than just an RCMP officer. Francis was a hero to his two children, Sarah and Ryan, a loving husband to his wife, Carolyn, a proud son to Leo and Dora, a supportive brother and a dedicated Wolastoqewi man to his community, Neqotkuk.

Graduating from RCMP Depot in 1987, Francis made the most of his nine-year career as an RCMP officer, where he was well liked and respected by his superiors and colleagues. Francis was best known for his big smile, contagious laughter and his amazing ability to turn strangers into family within minutes.

During his career, Francis was awarded two prestigious medals — the Commissioner’s Commendation for bravery, courage, presence of mind and professionalism, when he saved three children from a runaway boat, and the second received for contributions he made to improving community relations.

Although his Earth walk was far from long enough, Francis’ many accomplishments and lasting impressions he left on everyone he met, will live on through memories and memorials in his honour. This year will mark 23 years since Francis’ passing.

There is a lot of excitement, emotion and appreciation surrounding this upcoming recognition ceremony. He is greatly missed by all who were privileged to have known him.“

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