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Historical Demotions and Promotions Rock Gendarmerie Ranks
In a rare move, the French Gendarmerie saw a demotion of Staff Sergeant Rochet to Sergeant in 1906, marking a significant change in the history of the force.
Changes in Size and Structure
The demotion was part of a series of changes that affected the size and structure of the gendarme contingent stationed on the islands of Saint-Pierre and Miquelon. The collapse of the economy at the turn of the century led to a reduction in the number of gendarmes, with the official newspaper of the colony announcing that by 1925, the Gendarmerie consisted of a staff of eleven.
- Fluctuations continued in the following years
- Changes made by decree and local decision
Reorganization and Leadership Changes
In 1934, the contingent was reorganized into three groups: Saint-Pierre, Miquelon, and Langlade, with each group having its own commander.
- In 1980, the position of lieutenant replaced by captain
- By 2002, the Gendarmerie consisted of a headquarters, two territorial brigades, one investigation brigade, and a patrol boat called Fulmar
Current Structure and Leadership
Today, the Company of Gendarmerie of Saint-Pierre and Miquelon is led by a Lieutenant-Colonel and has a total strength of around 32 personnel. The force also maintains a website dedicated to its history and activities.
Recent Developments
In recent years, the gendarme force has continued to evolve, with changes made to its structure and personnel. Notable developments include:
- In 1997, the territorial brigade was downsized from 18 to 13 gendarmes
- In 2000, the Miquelon brigade consisted of one warrant officer and two gendarmes
- In August 2001, the Company of Gendarmerie of Saint-Pierre and Miquelon was commanded by a Lieutenant-Colonel for the first time
Structure
The Company of Gendarmerie of Saint-Pierre and Miquelon is organized into three main groups:
Headquarters
- Provides logistical and administrative support
Territorial Brigades
- Consists of two brigades, one for Saint-Pierre and one for Miquelon
Investigation Brigade
- Part of the police judiciaire
References
- “Portail internet des services de l’Etat: La Gendarmerie Nationale”
- “Saint-Pierre et Miquelon - Portail Cheznoo.net”
- “French patrol ship Fulmar: Port visit to Rimouski and Québec”
- “Atlantique Nord-ouest : le Fulmar coopère avec les forces de la région”
- Ministère des Armées, 28 April 2023