After decades of service, Assistant Chief Darin Vander Veur is retiring from his full-time position with SBRFA as of January 30th, 2026, leaving behind a legacy defined by dedication, compassion, and quiet leadership. What began in 1994 as a favor to a friend who encouraged him to join soon grew into a lifelong commitment to caring for others and strengthening the department he came to love.

Darin quickly found his calling in emergency medical services. He pursued education not for recognition, but to be better prepared to serve, earning his EMT, IV Technician, and Paramedic certifications as well as his fire certifications. Along the way, he naturally stepped into leadership, becoming Medical Safety Officer and Training Officer early in his career, roles that reflected his steady nature and deep concern for both patient care and firefighter safety.

Those who worked alongside Darin know him as someone who led by example.

Darin invested deeply in training, not only within our department but throughout Grays Harbor. As a Senior Evaluator Instructor for Grays Harbor EMS, he helped train hundreds of emergency medical personnel. He also led the Grays Harbor Fire Academy, working alongside new firefighters as they honed their skills. No matter the role, Darin always took the time to help others succeed.

Whether in the classroom, on a call, or behind the scenes, Darin’s influence was constant and dependable. His leadership was especially evident during the transition to a Regional Fire Authority in 2017, where his experience and calm guidance helped shape the future of SBRFA. His later roles as Training Chief and Assistant Chief felt like a natural continuation of a career defined by service, humility, and trust.

From his first call to his final days in leadership, Assistant Chief Vander Veur strengthened our department and made our community safer. His full-time presence will be deeply missed, but his impact will continue through the people he trained and inspired. Darin will continue as the state's Drill Master for the 2026  GH Fire Academy as he prepares to pass the torch.

Assistant Chief Vander Veur has touched countless lives for the better. Patients, students, employees, and friends have all been impacted by his service. Our lives have been made better because we knew him.

Please join us in thanking Darin for his many years of service and wishing him peace, fulfillment, and well-deserved rest in retirement.