This was the 50th ceremony in which state employees were are recognized for demonstrating extraordinary acts of bravery and heroism to save the life of another.
CHP officer Joshua Hatfield was honored for attempting to save a pregnant woman from a burning pick-up truck. The accident happened back in January on Houghton and Wible Roads. Officer Hatfield is a ten year veteran with the California Highway Patrol.
Caltrans worker Dale William White Jr. also received a gold medal for pushing two people out of the path of a reckless drunk driver.
Both were honored to receive the recognition.
"Very much an honor," said Hatfield. "Captain called me about a month ago, hey, all right let's do it. It is an honor. It is an honor."
"It just totally surprised me," said White. "I was just there, you know what I mean? … didn't expect to get more than a thank you. It really surprised me."
