Awards and Appreciation

State senator names officer Citizen of Month

Correctional Officer Alfred Gascon’s actions caught the attention of 40th District State Senator Ben Hueso, who selected him Citizen of the Month.

Man presents certificate to another man wearing a correctional officer's uniform.
Correctional Officer Alfred Gascon received special recognition from Sen. Hueso’s office.

While transitioning from his job at Chuckawalla Valley State Prison to his new assignment at Calipatria State Prison, Officer Gascon rendered assistance to car crash victims.

“Officer Alfred Gascon is a true hero and his valor and bravery deserve the highest commendation. Thank you, Officer Gascon, for your unparalleled service both on and off the clock,” according to the senator’s September 2019 newsletter.

Read the original Above the Call story published in August.


Read more stories of staff going above the call.

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Above the Call stories

Two CMC transportation officers helped a driver whose truck burst into flames Jan. 16.

CMC officers help driver after truck burst into flames

Two correctional officers from California Men’s Colony (CMC) helped a driver after her truck burst into flames on Interstate 5.…

Correctional officer at CSP-Corcoran who helped find a missing hunter in late October 2025.

Inside CDCR 2025: A look back at the top stories

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CMC transportation officers helped crash victims on Highway 101 in Oxnard, California, Oct. 1, 2025.

CDCR transportation officers assist crash victims

While returning to California Men’s Colony from a southern California transport, two CDCR transportation officers recently assisted victims in a…

Correctional officer at CSP-Corcoran who helped find a missing hunter in late October 2025.

CDCR officer finds missing hunter during trip

A missing hunter is home safe for the holidays thanks to a California State Prison-Corcoran correctional officer and his two…

Michael Dilger and Secretary Macomber

In photos: CDCR, CCHCS salute Medal of Valor honorees

CDCR and CCHCS officials gathered Friday, along with previous honorees, to salute this year’s Medal of Valor recipient and 19…

Medal of Valor logo

2025 Medal of Valor ceremony honors 20 staff

The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) will honor 20 employees during today’s Medal of Valor Ceremony. This year’s…