2- Jordan Funeral/New VicPd officer SH/Apr 19 2:30
An estimated 500 law enforcement officers from across BC, Canada, and parts of the United States, took part in a procession to honour a Victoria Police officer who died last week after spending over 3 decades in a coma.
In September 1987 Cnst. Ian Jordan was responding to a call of a B & E in progress when his cruiser collided with another police car in an intersection. He passed last week from a lung infection.
Many of those who came served with Cnst. Jordan -- like Fred Mills, now retired:
"Oh absolutely, we worked together for a number of years. And on the day in question when this accident happened, I was a traffic inspector then. So this is quite a personal thing for me."
Mills says Jordan was a hard-working and contentious officer, who loved policing, adding the accident was tough on everybody, and hit the police department hard.
Officers paraded along Quadra Street from behind VicPd headquarters to Christ Church Cathedral as bag pipes played. The route was lined by citizens who watched the uniformed men and women march in tribute to their fallen colleague.
Jordan's story is shared with new recruits -- like Cnst. Kale Howe -- even today:
" One of the first stories we talked about before and after my first code 3 run, driving lights and sirens to an emergency call was the story of Cnst Ian Jordan. And today it's a day of emotion for us all. I mean we've lost a member. And now even though he was injured so long ago, it's a story that even today new recruits are being told, among the first things we are told."
Cnst. Howe talked about the sacrifice police officers and their families make to serve their communities:
" We just have to thank Const. Ian Jordan for making the ultimate sacrifice, and thank his family for giving him to VicPd. And we all dedicate ourselves top this job. Some give more than others."
Howe says Cnst. Jordan's funeral is the 3rd one he's attended since joining the force 4 years ago.
Among those travelling long distances to pay tribute were representatives of the U.S. border patrol. Adan Gonzales says while he didn't know Cnst Jordan, but it's important to show support for a fallen colleague:
" Absolutely. The thin blue line is something that we see as important. Our local partnerships in Canada and the United States work hand in hand. And it's important that we support each other."
The marching procession passed by VicPd Headquarters, with flags flying at half staff. As bag pipes wailed, the contingent made their way down Quadra Street, and just before the church, passed under a gigantic Canadian Flag hoisted over the street. Hundreds of citizens lined the sidewalks to take in the spectacle and show respect for Cnst. Jordan, many with tears in their eyes.