Students from two Hamilton schools have named the newest member of the Hamilton Police Mounted Patrol Unit. The horse, a nine-year-old Clydesdale standing 18 hands high, has been named McMaster, or Mac for short.
First Clydesdale in the Unit
McMaster is the first Clydesdale to join the Hamilton Police Mounted Patrol Unit. The name was chosen by students from the grade 4-8 Comprehensive Special Education Class at W.H. Ballard and a Grade 1-2 class at St. John the Baptist.
The name recognizes McMaster University, one of Hamilton's most well-known institutions. According to a news release from Hamilton Police, the name reflects a strong local connection and celebrates the community McMaster will now help serve.
Community Policing and Engagement
Hamilton Police Chief Frank Bergen said in a statement, "Our Mounted Patrol Unit is an important part of community policing, helping us build trust and meaningful connections across Hamilton. Having students from W.H. Ballard and St. John the Baptist help name McMaster makes his welcome even more special, and we are grateful for their creativity and enthusiasm."
The police added that mounted patrol officers and their horses play an important role in community engagement, visibility, and public safety at events, in parks, and throughout Hamilton neighbourhoods.
Training and Celebration
McMaster is currently undergoing extensive training before he begins patrolling Hamilton's streets. The winning classes were scheduled to celebrate with a pizza party and a visit from the Mounted Unit on Tuesday.
