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Historic Changes in Gendarmerie Force in Saint-Pierre and Miquelon
Saint-Pierre and Miquelon, a French archipelago off the coast of Canada, has undergone significant changes to its gendarmerie force over the past century. The force, responsible for maintaining law and order in the region, has experienced fluctuations in size and structure due to various factors.
Early Years (1906-1910)
In 1906, the gendarme was removed from Langlade, reducing the force to one sergeant, one corporal, and eight gendarmes. Miquelon and Île-aux-Chiens retained their own gendarmes. By 1910, Corporal Adolphe Mauffroy had taken over command, promoting Saint-Pierre’s strength to one sergeant, one corporal, and five gendarmes.
Economic Downturn (1925-1934)
As the economy of St. Pierre declined at the turn of the century, the force underwent further reductions. By 1925, the Gendarmerie consisted of a staff of eleven: one warrant officer, eight gendarmes in Saint-Pierre, and one gendarme each on Miquelon and Île-aux-Chiens.
Post-War Reorganization (1942-1957)
After World War II, the force underwent significant changes. By 1942, the position of Miquelon was restored, followed by the re-establishment of Langlade in 1946. In 1950, the force was reorganized into three brigades: Territorial, Investigation, and Port & Airport.
Modernization (1980-2001)
In the 1980s, the force underwent modernization, with the introduction of new equipment and training programs. The position of Lieutenant was replaced by Captain, who also served as Police Commissioner and Public Prosecutor.
Recent Developments (2002-Present)
In 2002, a website dedicated to the gendarmes of Saint-Pierre and Miquelon was created. Today, the force comprises a headquarters, two territorial brigades, one investigation brigade, and a patrol boat Fulmar, with 11 personnel assigned.
Structure
The Gendarmerie Nationale in Saint-Pierre and Miquelon is structured as follows:
- Headquarters: provides logistical and administrative support
- Territorial Brigades (Saint-Pierre and Miquelon): responsible for maintaining law and order in the region
- Investigation Brigade (Saint-Pierre): part of the police judiciaire, conducting investigations and gathering evidence
The force continues to evolve, adapting to changing circumstances and threats while maintaining its commitment to serving the people of Saint-Pierre and Miquelon.