The Life & Times of Lighthouse McNeil

BOXER. PILOT. ROUGHRIDER. MOUNTIE. One man lived it all. This is the story of the adventures of Superintendent McNeil, KStJ, MiD, whose accomplishments shine like a beacon across the glory years of an honoured and respected organization—the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. As a young man, Constable McNeil spent his summers on the Mackenzie River and his winters criss-crossing the North on dogsled patrols for as many as 700 miles, earning $2 a day, plus “food, uniform, underwear and toothbrushes.” He was one of the first pilots in the RCMP “Air” Division. In the Second World War, he flew with the RCAF, and rose to the rank of Wing Commander. In peacetime, he led the RCMP Musical Ride across North America to Hollywood and made friends of movie stars. A devoted family man and dedicated community leader, he made a difference in every posting—and left a lasting legacy.