After 32 years of service, Battalion Chief Craig Paxton will be retiring from the Junction City Fire Department.
Paxton began his career June 23, 1981 and has advanced from a firefighter position through every officer position within the department during his career.
Paxton didn’t expect this to be his career.
“A buddy and I were sitting around talking about it one day,” Paxton said. “We saw an ad in the paper. We were both working construction at the time way back. I talked him into applying with me and almost 32 years later, we’re both still firefighters.”
Paxton’s last day will be June 27 and he isn’t exactly sure what comes next.
“I’m going to continue to reside in Junction City,” Paxton said. “This is my hometown. I was born and raised here and I plan on staying. I’m going to come up with something to do next. I don’t know what that’ll be, but I’m going to keep on working.”
On Friday, June 29, there will be a retirement reception for Paxton at the Municipal Building gymnasium from 2 – 4 pm. The public is welcome to attend.
