On June 7, Kirkland police Capt. Bill Hamilton graduated alongside 227 other law enforcement officers from the F.B.I. National Academy Program in Quantico, Va.

According to a Kirkland Police Department (KPD) press release, the 268th Session of the National Academy consisted of men and women from 47 states as well as members of law enforcement agencies from Washington D.C., 24 international countries, five military organizations and seven federal civilian organizations.

The National Academy Program, held at the F.B.I. Academy, offers 10 weeks of advanced communication, leadership and fitness training for selected officers who have proven records as professionals within their agencies. On average, these officers have 21 years of law enforcement experience and usually return to their agencies to serve in executive-level positions, the release states.

Hamilton has more than 30 years of law enforcement experience, including 27 years with the Kirkland Police Department. He is also a graduate of the Northwestern University School of police staff and command. Hamilton has served as captain in operations services and in his current assignment as administrative captain. In addition, the release states, he has also served as interim police chief with the department and is well respected for his experience, knowledge and demonstrated leadership abilities.