In recognition of the many contributions of RCMP officers to the safety of the province, Manitoba has announced February 1 as Royal Canadian Mounted Police Day.

The work the RCMP does in Manitoba is incredible, so to honour them, Manitoba has dedicated February 1 as RCMP Day. The date was chosen because it was the day the Royal Canadian Mounted Police were formed back in 1920. It was a merger of the North-West Mounted Police and the Dominion Police of Eastern Canada.

"It is an honour to be part of this special celebration, recognizing the important work the RCMP are doing in our communities to ensure public safety, especially their work with young people throughout Manitoba," said Justice Minister Heather Stefanson in a release. "The RCMP have played an important role in Manitoba's history, which is clear as we celebrate our country's 150th birthday. From all Manitobans, we thank you for your dedication, your service and your sacrifice."

"The RCMP have a proud and strong history in the province of Manitoba and I feel privileged that our service is being recognized in this distinctive way," Assistant Commissioner Scott Kolody, commanding officer of 'D' Division said in the release.

Today, the RCMP Traffic Services officers have set up a road safety Checkstop near historic Lower Fort Garry. They are also showcasing different forms of transportation and uniforms the RCMP has used throughout it's years of service. "For close to 100 years, we've been enforcing road safety and policing the communities of Manitoba," said Joanne Keeping, the District Commander for the Manitoba RCMP East District. "We wanted to remind the general public of our commitment and to thank them for being road safety conscious."

If you're heading towards that area, you will be able to see period uniforms, as well as snowmobiles, a dog sled and a Red River cart.