Fort Liard (Oct 13/06) - It was a joyous, yet sad celebration at the going-away feast held Oct. 4 for an RCMP officer leaving Fort Liard.

Const. Jeff Myke lived and worked in Fort Liard for three years and became a true member of the community according to many who lived there.

"He does a good job in his work and he gets along with people," said resident Arthur Loe.

"He plays sports with youth," said Loe, adding many will miss Myke and his willingness to get involved in events happening in Fort Liard.

Around 50 people attended the feast according to Myke, who described the evening as emotional for many who were there.

"I was quite humbled," said Myke.

Participating in sports and community action groups, Myke said he enjoyed his time in Fort Liard and will especially miss the people he came to know so well.

"It's been a great experience here," said Myke.

Members who attended the feast gifted Myke with a laminated poster signed by kids from the community and with traditional items he could keep to remember his time in Fort Liard.

Myke is set to leave Oct. 13 to go to Fort Smith for another three-year stint. Overall, Myke has spent five years in the North and said he has no plans to leave the Territories anytime soon.

He was stationed in Hay River for the first two years.

Const. Jeremy White from Fort Smith is set to take his place.

Another new face residents can expect to is that of cadet Alana Foley from Nova Scotia coming this month.

Myke said the his recommendation to new officers is getting involved in community efforts and in recreational activities to better know who the RCMP serve.