12-3-2018
BELLINGHAM, Wash. — Friday was a bittersweet day for Bellingham Police Lieutenant Bob Vander Yacht as he took to his radio to sign off for the last time.
“I’d like to take this opportunity to express my thanks to all of my law enforcement sisters and brothers. We know that you do make a difference in the lives of those that you encounter . . . what you all do is noble, and for that I am eternally grateful,” he said.
911 dispatcher Shane Kussman responded with a congratulations of Vander Yacht for his thirty-three years of excellent and dedicated service.
Vander Yacht was born and raised in Whatcom County, graduated from Mt. Baker High School, and worked in logging before deciding for a career in law enforcement.
He received his bachelor’s degree from WWU and joined the Bellingham Police Department as a reserve officer in 1984 and hired full time in 1985.
Looking back over his thirty-three years Vander Yacht remarked, “My career with Bellingham PD has truly been a blessing. I take great pride in knowing that our agency is an industry leader in training and innovation.”