Why I bought a ceremonial uniform and why you should too

I had not been aware that a retiree like myself (not in uniform at time of retirement but once uniformed at the beginning of my career) would be able to obtain a ceremonial uniform. Once that opportunity had been realized as a result of the work of the Board of Directors of the CBSA RA and the Vice President of Traveller Operations, it presented to me as a why not? The only difference would be that I would bear the full cost. Worth it. Heck yes! 

Why would I want to have a uniform? To be honest, it was as a result of the passing of a dear former colleague that caused me to do a lot of thinking about this. The family had contacted me and asked if I knew how they could get an honour guard for their husband/father’s funeral. I told them I would make inquiries and get back to them. On the day of the funeral, I met the five ceremonial guard officers. During the reception afterward, they asked me to consider joining them. That gave me a lot of thought. When the opportunity presented itself it just made sense. I have served for 41 years and Canada Customs/the CBSA has been a major part of my life of which I am very proud. It also makes sense that we have an opportunity to be there for our former colleagues.

Ordering process

This initial order was unique as I was the CBSA retiree “guinea pig”. The Uniform Division contacted me by email and first asked what my years of service were and the number of years that I was actually in uniform. With the response provided, they indicated that I indeed did qualify. They set up a time for me to go to their office in Ottawa to be measured for a uniform. I was able to try on some uniform components so they could gauge the size more accurately. The uniform itself was approximately $731.88 plus the parade boots, bought separately from the supplier by the retiree, another $160 for a total cost of $891.88. I was given the contact information for the parade boots and ordered them directly from the supplier. They arrived within three days. 

I was very satisfied with the quality of the product. It fits well. It comes with every last detail, including years of service bars, name plate, white gloves and the components that show your rank. Our officers look very sharp in this uniform. 

Stay connected with a ceremonial uniform 

I would not just recommend but encourage fellow CBSA RA members to seriously consider obtaining a ceremonial uniform. 

All too often when people retire, especially from law enforcement and policing agencies there is a sudden disconnect from the life you lived and the people with whom you served. While some people prefer to retire and start a new season, others still feel a connection. That was true in my situation. I have maintained a lot of contacts with those who have retired and those who are still serving. 

Attending the drill practices every two or three months has provided me with a great deal of pride and an opportunity to make new connections in the Agency and maintain relationships with those I already know. We enjoy good camaraderie and a lot of laughter. 

Participate in fun and moving events

I was able to wear my uniform to participate in the Canadian Police and Peace Officer Memorial (CPPOM) parade in 2023, and will hopefully do the same in 2024. I have been able to wear it for the Dreams Take Flight event which occurs in November each year. The CBSA, RCMP and other volunteers see the children off on their trip to Disney World, Florida and welcome them home, all within a 24-hour period. These children are special needs children. For a whole day they enjoy an all expenses paid trip accompanied by volunteers. It is such a privilege to see these children off, and most satisfying to see them return home exhausted, and so happy for the experience. Our presence at such events is appreciated not only by the children but by their parents and guardians. 

Finally, when a family is in distress as the result of the loss of a loved one who served with the Agency, I am now able to step up and volunteer to be part of an honour guard at their wake and funeral, through the National Capital Ceremonial Unit. Having had first-hand experience and observation in this setting, I can tell you that it really serves as a comfort to the family. One family member stated to me directly after the funeral that they had no idea how much it meant to them to have members of the CBSA present, that they knew their husband would have been proud, and it had in fact started the healing process. We were able to provide the family with a properly folded Canadian flag. It was a special moment. 

Being able to wear the uniform to me represents the pride and commitment that I have had and still have for the work that I did for 41 years. It provides me with an ongoing connection and belonging to my former colleagues and friends. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve in this small capacity. 

I hope you will consider purchasing a ceremonial uniform and join me and your fellow retirees and active duty officers in this fun and satisfying activity.

Yours truly,

Debra Steele

Director

CBSA Retirees’ Association