File # 2008-ISU 2008-11-05 08:39 PST

Ever wonder what your former High School classmates have achieved since they graduated? Who did they become when they grew up? What kind of difference did they make? That’s what students at Thousand Island Secondary School in Brockville, Ontario ask when they consider honouring past graduates. On Saturday November 8, 2008 Cpl. Laurie White, a member of the Vancouver 2010 Integrated Security Unit, will return to her hometown and become the newest inductee into the Thousand Island Secondary School’s Hall of Fame.

In 1998, Cpl. Laurie White made national headlines, while stationed at her first RCMP posting in Kitimat, B.C. Cpl White was shot while executing a search warrant, which resulted in the amputation of her lower right leg. After ten months of rehabilitation, Cpl White overcame tremendous challenges and returned to unlimited and unrestricted policing duties. In so doing, Cpl White became the only police officer in Canada to have ever accomplished this with an artificial leg.

Over the years that have passed since returning to work in 1999, Cpl White has been honoured to receive the Meritorious Service Medal from the Governor General of Canada, a Medal Of Valour from the International Association of Women in Policing, and most recently, the "E" Division Commanding Officer's Commendation.

Cpl White was recently contacted by staff at her hometown high school in Brockville, Ontario and advised that a decision has been made to induct her into the High School's Hall of Fame. Cpl White joins a list of esteemed notables including an Ontario Supreme Court Judge, Olympic/World athletes, politicians and business icons.

On Saturday at the annual commencement ceremony at Thousand Islands Secondary School, Cpl White will be inducted into the school's Hall of Fame and has been asked to address attendees.

"I'm truly honoured to be receiving this award here, in my hometown of Brockville, where I still have so many close connections,” says Cpl. White. “Ten years ago when I was shot, the support given to me and to my family by the members of this community was unbelievable. And now, to be receiving this award, it reminds me that regardless of where I live, my home remains in Brockville."

Cpl White is currently a security planner in the RCMP-led Vancouver 2010 Integrated Security Unit, and is the lead police coordinator for the Paralympic Games. Cpl White continues to be an inspiration to her colleagues in the Integrated Security Unit and across the RCMP.

Contact Information

Cpl. Jen Allan
V2010 - Integrated Security Unit - Media Relations
Phone: (604) 247-8600

Email: ediv_internet_webmaster@rcmp-grc.gc.ca

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