Jason Unrau
Northern News Services

Inuvik (Mar 26/04) - Frank Carpenter has a lot to be proud of.

In December of last year, the Inuvik resident presented son Bradley with an RCMP badge in Regina, welcoming another of his boys into what has become a family tradition.

Inuvik's Bradley Dean Carpenter at his December graduation from the RCMP Training Academy in Regina. He is now stationed in Rae, while his brother, Merle, is posted in Inuvik. - photo courtesy of Frank Carpenter

For 25 years, the elder Carpenter was a special constable with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.

Since then, he has seen his son Merle, stepson Wayne Norris and close family friend Dino Norris join the ranks of the respected profession.

This December, Bradley became the fifth in a proud line of police officers, enough to make small a patrol.

"I always encouraged them to join the RCMP because they would always provide you with a place to live," said Frank.

For a quarter-century the elder Carpenter was a guide and interpreter for the RCMP, stationed for much of his tenure in Sachs Harbour.

"At the time they still used dogs and we had to hunt seals for food," he said, recalling his days with the force.

Times may have changed and the dogs have been replaced by snowmobiles, but for the Carpenter family, the passion for serving and protecting has not.

"I'm very proud of him," said Merle of his brother Bradley.

Merle is stationed at the Inuvik detachment.

"He always said he wanted to do this, I just didn't expect him to do it this soon."

Change of career

Bradley now adds RCMP constable to his growing resume, which includes a stint as mayor of Sachs Harbour and professional carver.

In speaking with Bradley, who is currently enjoying his first posting in Rae, it was difficult not to notice the pride he takes in his new career choice.

"It meant so much to me for my father to present me with my RCMP badge," he said. "I always looked up to him."

The newest Carpenter to join the force says he also owes a debt of gratitude to Merle, Wayne and Dino Norris.

"I've seen how well they've done and now I get to follow in their footsteps."

Bradley says he hopes his work will eventually take him to the Delta and perhaps beyond.

"One day I'd like to be posted in Nunavut," he said.

"For now, I'm really enjoying Rae and each day is filled with new challenges."