By MES Dispatch staff
The Briefing
- Rohnert Park Department of Public Safety Officer Dack Thompson, 51, completed the Santa Rosa Junior College Firefighter Academy’s 585-hour program, one of the oldest to do so. Police1
- Thompson undertook the training to satisfy dual-role police and firefighter requirements in the city’s combined department. Police1
- He overcame past injuries and age-related challenges during the academy. Police1
- Thompson graduated Dec. 19, 2025, alongside younger trainees. Police1
- Officials and family members highlighted his perseverance and commitment to public service. Police1
ROHNERT PARK, CA — Rohnert Park Department of Public Safety Officer Dack Thompson, 51, has completed the 585-hour Santa Rosa Junior College Firefighter Academy, fulfilling training requirements for the city’s combined police-fire department, officials said. Police1
Thompson graduated Dec. 19, 2025, becoming one of the oldest trainees to finish the academy, which prepares candidates for structural and emergency response duties. Police1
The consolidated department in Rohnert Park requires police officers to complete firefighter training. Thompson, a veteran law enforcement officer, undertook the physical and classroom components of the program despite prior knee injuries and other physical challenges. Police1
Officials noted that typical academy trainees range widely in age, but Thompson’s completion at 51 stood out among his peers. Police1
Family members and academy leaders highlighted his perseverance through injuries and rigorous training, underscoring his commitment to serving the community in both law enforcement and fire service capacities. Police1