Throughout the years, our patch, as well as our department, have gone through many changes. These changes can be traced back to the year 1969, when one of the first official patches appeared on the uniform (see 1969-1973). Prior to that, it was custom for many Police Agencies to embroider crests straight on the uniform. This patch, like most that existed of its day, was very plain and straight to the point, giving those who saw it a clear indication of police presence.
In 1973, our patch changed to a much larger version (see 1973-1975) allowing the use of our department’s full name and introducing the department’s first logo. The logo was a representation of the Administration Building, highlighting the building’s structure with the use of pillars and columns.
After three years, the patch underwent a minor change to the logo segment (see 1975-1993). This became the longest consecutive patch in our department’s history. The Administration building illustration was revived, and is still used today in many of the University faculties.
The patch again took a change around the year 1993 (see 1993-1998). At that time the size and colouring were the biggest alterations; the patch took on a close resemblance to the local city police force. These patch styles were also an indication of the officer’s rank, white embroidering for Constables, and gold embroidering for Supervisors.
This patch lasted until 1998, when the University's crest was incorporated into the patch (see 1998-2002). This crest, which has been used by the University since 1956, has the following significance:
Upper left quarter:
-The cross and crown and the standing bison represent the Province of Manitoba.
Lower left quarter:
-The seated figure, with the rising eagle, is Saint John, which represents St. John’s College an affiliate of the university since its inception.
Lower right quarter:
-The purple grapes and green leaves with the Latin motto “Floreat” represent the coat of arms of Manitoba College.
Upper right quarter:
-The open book, three maple leaves and two fleurs-de-lis represent the coat of arms of St. Boniface College, also a charter affiliate of the university.
This patch also received a minor change in 2002 (see 2002-Present), when the lettering was changed from lower case to upper case, once again for greater visibility.
The hat badge has also undergone numerous changes over the years and the current version is a combination of the University Crest and other police department insignias.
