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Historic Shift in Gendarmerie Strength on Saint-Pierre and Miquelon

The French Gendarmerie has undergone significant changes throughout its history, particularly in terms of personnel strength. One notable example is the island archipelago of Saint-Pierre and Miquelon, where a historic shift occurred in 1906.

Demotion and Fluctuating Numbers (1906-1926)

In September 1906, Staff Sergeant Rochet was demoted to sergeant by decree, marking a significant change in the history of the Gendarmerie on Saint-Pierre and Miquelon. The size of the gendarme force continued to fluctuate over the years, with the collapse of the local economy at the turn of the century contributing to the variation.

  • By July 1925, the Gendarmerie consisted of a staff of eleven personnel, with one warrant officer and eight gendarmes stationed on Saint-Pierre.
  • However, by August 1926, the number had been reduced again, with only one warrant officer and seven gendarmes remaining on Saint- Pierre. The positions on Miquelon and Île-aux-Chiens were also closed.

Expansion and Reorganization (1946-1980s)

In a surprise move, the contingent was increased to ten personnel in March 1946, with two gendarmes stationed on Miquelon. This growth continued, with the creation of a Port & Airport Brigade in September 1972 to act as a border guard.

  • The Gendarmerie underwent significant changes in the 1980s, with the position of lieutenant replaced by a captain and an increase in personnel numbers.
  • By 2002, the Gendarmerie comprised three brigades: the Group of the Company Commandant, the Territorial Brigade of Saint-Pierre, and the Territorial Brigade of Miquelon.

Modern Era (1980s-Present)

Today, the Company of Gendarmerie of Saint-Pierre and Miquelon is commanded by a lieutenant-colonel and has a total strength of around 30 personnel. The patrol boat Fulmar, which operates with the French Navy, is also part of the Gendarmerie, with 11 personnel assigned to it.

  • A website dedicated to the gendarmes of Saint-Pierre and Miquelon was created in 2002, providing a valuable resource for those interested in the history and operations of the Gendarmerie.