The ‘Red Serge’ & The ‘Blue Line’

Ever wonder why Canadian Mounties wear bright red uniforms?

Or what that small blue line on their law enforcement gear could mean?

In brief, the RCMP’s (Royal Canadian Mounted Police)“Red Serge” and “Thin Blue Line” are two symbols of honor always worn by Canadian law enforcement.

The Red Serge

The RCMP’s Red Serge is that classic, popular bright red uniform you’ve probably The Royal Canadian Mounted Police wearing during official ceremonies, maybe online or in-person.

The uniform is composed of a red jacket, dark blue pants with a yellow stripe, brown boots, and a wide-brimmed hat.

This country-wide uniform is a large part of Canadian identity.

Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) officer on horseback surveys the Bow Valley between 1940 and 1955; in the background is the Banff Springs Hotel. University of Alberta Library Prairie Postcard Collection. Postcard. Public Domain.

An unidentified Royal Canadian Mounted Police on horseback before 1942. Byron Harmon (Photographer). Photograph. Public Domain.

The Thin Blue Line

The “thin blue line” is a symbol used to represent law enforcement amongst society.

This simple, thin blue line represents the role of law enforcement plays as a barrier whilst keeping society safe.

The symbolism illustrates law enforcement as being the thin blue line itself, standing between order and chaos.

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Authored, edited, formatted, and researched by E. Silvers.

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