Flaco Guapo Media

SAN ANGELO –In San Angelo Police Chief, Frank Carter's, brief remarks, along the way he also good-naturedly, roasted his friend and fellow SAPD Patrol Division Officer, Brian Bylsma whose 10:30 a.m. retirement ceremony on March 29th was held at the McNease Convention Center’s chambers.


Photo from Bylsma's Facebook.

Chief Carter mentioned that Bylsma had a combined 40 years of law enforcement service; 20 years in the Air Force, where he received one Meritorious Award, three United States Air Force medals, five Presidential outstanding awards, six good conduct medals, etc. When Carter got to the word conduct, with tongue-in-cheek he stated “We need to discuss that” to which all the attendees gleefully laughed aloud.


Photo from Byslma's Facebook

As for his years of service on the SAPD, Bylsma obtained a Masters’ Police License, 2010 Community Service Award, numerous Letters of Recognition and Commendation from citizens and partnering law enforcement agencies. Bylsma is also well-known in the community for his efforts in coordinating the S.A.C.O.P. Blue Santa Program and Thanksgiving Meal Delivery Program. To date, both programs have raised and spent nearly $116,000 to enrich the lives of 580 local families, as stated in a press release by SAPD Public Information Officer, Tracy Piatt-Fox.


Photo from Bylsma's Facebook.



With his concluding remarks, Carter then presented a certificate of retirement, which partly read, “having served faithfully and honorably. . .” a plaque, a watch, a U.S. flag which flew over the police department and a pen. SACOP representative, Kelly Lajoie followed up with her presentation. “On behalf of the San Angelo Coalition of Police I would like to present you, your retirement badge.”





Retired badge given to former SAPD Patrol Division Officer, Brian Bylsma by Kelly Lajoie, SACOP representative.

Brian Bylsyma is presented a certificate and flag by SAPD officer, Cade Solsbery.



Then came the time for now officially retired, officer, Bylsma to speak. He told the audience that his decision to retire was a last-minute thing and now was the time to do it. “I want to thank my wife, Kay, she has been behind me for the last 40 years.”

SAPD retired Patrol Division Officer, Brian Bylsma, wife, Kay, son, Brian and SAPD family

Bylsma briefly highlighted three areas that he wanted to leave behind to his fellow officer brethren. The first one he addressed to the younger, police officers. “I encourage you to reach out to the senior officers, learn from them.” “The ones who are married, don’t get married to the job.” Bylsma stated for the officers to make sure to leave time for their families. Second, “Treat people with respect.” And third, “When it comes to integrity, it is your number one thing that you have to keep in this career field.”