Chief for a Day Returns: Celebrating Courage, Community, and Connection

After a seven-year pause, the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission (WSCJTC) proudly welcomed back Chief for a Day on August 28, 2025 — a celebration of courage, joy, and community that brought together law enforcement agencies from across Washington to honor extraordinary children living with chronic or life-threatening illnesses.

Sixteen children from across the state were sworn in as honorary “Chiefs” and “Sheriffs” for the day, each outfitted with a custom uniform, honored in a formal ceremony, and celebrated with a motorcade, lunch, and hands-on demonstrations.

For Executive Director Monica Alexander, this return carried deep meaning:

“This event reminds us all of the power of connection. It’s a chance to lift up these incredible kids and to bring our community together in a meaningful way.” — Monica Alexander, WSCJTC Executive Director.

A Day to Remember

The day began with a police motorcade winding its way through Kent, Des Moines, Normandy Park, and Burien — sirens flashing, lights glowing, and entire communities waving as the honorary chiefs and sheriffs made their grand entrance at the WSCJTC campus.

Inside the academy auditorium, families, officers, and community members gathered for the swearing-in ceremony. Children smiled proudly as real chiefs and sheriffs placed badges on their uniforms. Each child’s story reflected resilience, hope, and a reminder that behind every uniform was a heart touched by community.

Spotlight: Chief Tristan of Bellingham

For Bellingham’s “Chief for a Day,” Tristan, the week leading up to the event was full of unforgettable moments. He was sworn in by Bellingham Municipal Court Commissioner Henery, with Chief Rebecca Mertzig of the Bellingham Police Department proudly pinning his badge.

Tristan even joined the Whatcom County K-9 teams in training. His favorite memory? Watching the dogs at work.

“I’ve done the K-9 unit program and one of the K-9s was scared to go down the stairs!” Tristan laughed. “They had to carry it down!”

When asked what he planned to do as Chief, Tristan didn’t hesitate:

“I’m going to go train! I’m going to tell people, if someone jaywalks they are going to get a ticket. And my parents jaywalk. And I will give my parents a ticket. But I won’t take them to jail.”

Chief Mertzig shared her admiration for the program and Tristan’s spirit:

“This is my favorite day of the year. Tristan has the helm. This is amazing. I told him that with great power comes great responsibility and to take care of our people. Anytime you can have those interactions where you are not taking an enforcement action, I think it’s great for the community. It’s special and valuable.”

Partnering Agencies and Volunteers

Chief for a Day was made possible thanks to the extraordinary support of partnering agencies, first responders, and community volunteers who created an unforgettable experience for the children.

From the Seattle Children’s Hospital Health & Safety Van to King County’s helicopter fly-in, each station gave kids a chance to explore, learn, and play. They climbed aboard the Tacoma SWAT and Bomb Trucks, met K-9 officers from Pierce County, DOC, and King County, enjoyed the Seattle PD BBQ, and even spent time with the Seafair Clowns.

The parking lot and academy grounds were transformed into a festival of service, with demonstrations from the WSP Bomb Squad, Kitsap County Marine Boat, Pierce County Marine Vehicle, King County Fire Aid Car, and more.

Volunteers from Mary Bridge Hospital provided care and smiles, while Kid Ink Facepainting and the Blue Hero mascot added joy and color. Media partners like ARC Seattle captured the spirit of the day, ensuring the stories of these young chiefs reached even further into the community.

This heartwarming day was made entirely possible through community donations, ensuring that every child, family, and agency could participate without cost.

A Celebration of Love Across Washington

The return of Chief for a Day highlighted more than just uniforms and ceremonies. It showcased the profound ways law enforcement connects with communities — through compassion, joy, and shared humanity. From Centralia to Tacoma, Kitsap to Spokane, each agency poured its heart into making the day unforgettable for their honorary chief.

The event was a reminder that policing is about people — and about lifting up those who inspire us all with their courage.

As Monica Alexander reflected, Chief for a Day was more than an event; it was a movement of love across the state.

✨ Thank you to the 16 agencies, community partners, and countless volunteers who made this day possible. Chief for a Day is back — and so is the joy it brings to Washington.