Law enforcement agencies across Whatcom County are observing National Police Week, which runs May 10 through 16, 2026. The Bellingham Police Department, Whatcom County Sheriff's Office, and US Border Patrol Blaine Sector have each posted tributes recognizing the dedication of officers who serve the community and honoring those who lost their lives in the line of duty.
National Police Week has been observed annually since 1962, when President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation designating May 15th as National Police Officers Memorial Day. A joint resolution of Congress that same year established the surrounding calendar week as National Police Week, creating a national moment to recognize law enforcement sacrifice. May 13th marks the annual candlelight vigil at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C., where the names of fallen officers are read aloud.
Washington State lost two law enforcement officers in 2025. Sergeant Kenneth Salas of the Spokane County Sheriff's Office died August 9, 2025, and Trooper Tara-Marysa Guting of the Washington State Patrol was killed December 19, 2025. Both names were added to the national memorial this year. More information on Sgt. Salas and Trooper Guting is available through the Behind the Badge Foundation, which maintains archives for Washington's fallen officers.
The Whatcom County Sheriff's Office posted a tribute noting that National Police Week is a time to honor the dedication of all law enforcement and their families, and to remember those who gave their lives. The sheriff's office message highlighted patrol deputies, corrections deputies, and professional support staff, noting that the department "remains committed to the safety and well-being of our community."
The Bellingham Police Department's tribute noted the history of National Police Week and highlighted the national vigil occurring May 13th. The department's message echoed the theme of the week: paying special recognition to officers who made the ultimate sacrifice for the safety of others. BPD currently employs officers across patrol, investigations, community response, and specialized units throughout Bellingham's neighborhoods.
The US Border Patrol Blaine Sector, which covers northwest Washington including Whatcom County, also posted a remembrance acknowledging fallen agents and law enforcement colleagues. The Blaine Sector has been active in Whatcom County enforcement operations in recent months, and the post reflected the broader border patrol community's participation in the national observance.
For Whatcom County residents who want to honor local officers, the Sheriff's Office and BPD both welcome community messages of support through their official social media pages. The national memorial's full roll call, candlelight vigil information, and resources for law enforcement families are available at nleomf.org.
National Police Week concludes May 16th. The week serves as both a somber remembrance and a community-wide opportunity to acknowledge the ongoing commitment of the men and women in law enforcement who work every day to keep Whatcom County safe.