Birnie Garry Syrnyk

Divisions Served: “F,” “K,” “Depot”

Pillar Location: Pillar VII, Row 21, Column B

Story: 

Birnie Garry Syrnyk, born 27 March 1948, was raised in a farming community of Ethelbert, Manitoba. Training commenced at Depot Regina for three months and an additional three months at Penhold, Alberta. The vigorous training days are clearly recalled as the discipline and teachings for survival out on the job were sternly engrained in each member…..(and they did teach this farm boy to swim). Although there were times it seemed like “hell”, it was a very rewarding experience and a steep learning curve.

First posting was a six man detachment at Big River, Saskatchewan. In a small northern community as a single man there was a little else to do but work. Your personal plans required approval from the NCO to get time off. Work and social events often brought RCMP together with nurses and consequently the transfer to Blaine Lake, Saskatchewan required accommodations for a married man.  Birnie married Lorene Kuffner.

Community, work and leisure time merged. Hockey took precedence: coaching bantam hockey, playing recreational hockey with small town leagues and with Prince Albert Sub-Division. The nearby lakes became an attraction and boating, skiing, camping and golf were enjoyed with newly developed friendships.  A third transfer was to North Battleford Sub/Div., City Detachment. Many more friends were cultivated and lessons learned.

The camaraderie of each posting brought more laughter, stories and Schmier. (“The favorite card game still enjoyed today”)

February 1976, after much deliberation, a major decision was made to pursue private business. As an ex-RCMP Birnie and his wife and two daughters established their home and business in Lloydminster, Alberta.