Glenn Steven McKenna

Divisions Served: “E”

Medals & Honours: Long Service Medal

Pillar Location: Pillar V, Row 11, Column F

Story: 

I grew up throughout small towns in BC, following my family in the Forest industry. I Attended 13 different schools so never really identified with a home town, however I was born in North Vancouver in 1952.

I signed up for the RCMP in Kamloops Subdivision where I applied at Salmon Arm Det. I was managing a nightclub, stereo store and collection agency in Salmon Arm at the time. I was encouraged to apply by serving members with whom I had become friends. This is also where I married.

1974-1975; Depot Div. 1975-1977; Boston Bar Detachment in “E” Div. as a General Duty member. 1978-1983; Chilliwack Municipal Drug Section serving at S/Div. HQ. 1983-1985; Chilliwack Sub-Div. G.I.S section. 1985-1987; Cassiar Det. General Duty (Isolated Post); 1987-1989; Stewart Det. General Duty (Isolated Post), 1989-1991; Courtenay Detachment Watch Commander (Cpl); 1991-1993; Courtenay Sub.Div. Federal Drug Section. 1993-1995; Courtenay Det. i/c G.I.S; 1995-1998; Courtenay sub.Div.i/c North Island Serious Crime Section; 1998/2000; Prince George Detachment Serious Crime Section Sgt. I/c. I retired here at Sgt.’s rank and returned to the Comox Valley on Vancouver Island.

There were many memorable cases throughout my career including undercover operations and homicide investigations which took me across Canada, USA, and sometimes Mexico. I still marvel at surviving through a number of dangerous situations, such as high speed chases and weapons related incidents. All of which as someone said to the effect, ”What doesn’t can kill you can make you stronger.” In my case they made me stronger.

Since retiring, I was a coroner with the BC Coroners Service, a Private Investigator, worked in computer networking and troubleshooting, and owned and operated a CCTV small business. My time now is divided between horses and computers.

I have enjoyed my experience with designing the current RCMP Vets Net website and facilitating access for fellow members and the public to view the “Last Post” online-version.

Raising a family remains the most memorable experience, and raising them within the folds of the Force is challenging as your spouse and children must contend with being the “Mountie’s” family. It has both good and bad consequences, but remains a positive family influence. I have children born in Hope, BC, Chilliwack, BC and Whitehorse, YT.

This career choice left me with a great understanding of how communities work, the things that should be important in life, and the satisfaction that I am living out my life with no regrets.

In my view there is no greater honour then to live your life in the service of your country.