Cappen gives final sign off after 42 years at Vidor PD

Captain Aleta Cappen is presented an appreciation plaque for her years of service to the city of Vidor by Mayor Misty Songe, center, and Vidor City Manager Robbie Hood, right, at her retirement celebration at The Oaks. Orange County and Texas Speaker of the House Date Phelan were also among those presenting Cappen with tokens of appreciation for her dedication and service to the community. Photo by Randall Luker
Captain Aleta Cappen is presented an appreciation plaque for her years of service to the city of Vidor by Mayor Misty Songe, center, and Vidor City Manager Robbie Hood, right, at her retirement celebration at The Oaks. Orange County and Texas Speaker of the House Date Phelan were also among those presenting Cappen with tokens of appreciation for her dedication and service to the community. Photo by Randall Luker

After making history as Vidor’s first female police officer and rising to the rank of Captain, 42-year VPD veteran Aleta Cappen gave her final sign off Thursday at a retirement party given in her honor.

Scores of well-wishers, from ordinary civilians and co-workers, to area municipal and county officials, first responders and law enforcement officers, packed The Oaks Entertainment Center to reminis…