Bon voyage to the captain

Most people reach a milestone if they spend 15 years with a company. Twenty-five years is an accomplishment, but 43 years is almost unheard of.

On Thursday Capt. James Stalnaker retired as commander of the San Bernardino County Sheriff ’s Victor Valley station after 43 years with the department.

“There are a lot of people who come and go through the department and think they are legends, but he is a true legend,” said Sheriff Rod Hoops. Hoops recalled Stalnaker as his training officer when the now sheriff went through the department’s academy.

Countless people from the Sheriff’s Department, California Highway Patrol and community stopped by the Victor Valley station Thursday to wish Stalnaker a warm goodbye.

For the full story, read Friday's edition of the Daily Press. To subscribe to the Daily Press in print or online, call (760) 241-7755 or click here.

Beatriz E. Valenzuela may be reached at 951-6276 or at BVa lenzuela@VVDailyPress.com.