A Hero for Deschutes County: Kent Vanderkamp for Sheriff

Submitted by Laurie Medina, Prineville, Oregon

As Deschutes County stands at a crossroads, let us rally behind Kent Vanderkamp for Sheriff. He is not just a man of the past but a leader for our future, embodying the qualities that make him the ideal candidate to uphold the safety and welfare of our community.

I vividly recall the day I met Kent Vander Kamp, who would later become my hero. Two decades ago, on a treacherous journey through Santiam Pass, I found myself in a life-threatening situation. The driver of the vehicle I was in underestimated the perils of icy, wintery roads, leading us to a disastrous collision with a semi-truck on a sharp curve.

As our vehicle slid under the truck and burst into flames, fate intervened in the form of Kent Vander Kamp, a then off-duty Deschutes County Deputy, who happened to be behind the semi in his pickup truck. With unparalleled courage, Kent rushed to our burning vehicle. Amidst the chaos, he skillfully extracted me from the mangled wreckage and laid me in the back of Kent's truck.

In those critical moments, Kent's professionalism shone through. Despite the situation's urgency, he kept me calm, reassuring me and explaining the gravity of the crash. Kent's kindness and comforting demeanor made a lasting impression as I lay in and out of consciousness. The ambulance arrived 40 minutes later, transporting me to the hospital and undoubtedly saving my life.

Twenty years have passed since that harrowing incident, and Kent Vanderkamp has evolved from being my hero. His high integrity, honesty, and intelligence define him as a man of exceptional character. Kent is reliable; you can trust him to follow through when he commits. He is a man of his word.

Reflecting on that fateful day, I am convinced Deschutes County needs a leader like Kent Vander Kamp. His selfless act of saving my life exemplifies the courage and dedication he brings to every endeavor. In times of crisis, Kent is the person you want by your side – a true hero who has proven his commitment to the well-being of our community.