CDCR recognizes its heroic staff going above and beyond to serve their communities, sometimes at great risk to their own lives. Correctional Sergeant Hector Villarreal was recently honored with a Gold Medal for his heroic actions in protecting the citizens of Kerman and his family from a serial shooter in 2018. (Read more about his story.)
The Gold Medal is the highest honor the State of California bestows upon its employees.
Watch Villarreal’s Gold Medal presentation:
Follow CDCR on YouTube, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter). Listen to the CDCR Unlocked podcast.
Read more stories of staff going above the call.
Above the Call stories
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.…
Inside CDCR 2025: A look back at the top stories
From tales of heroism and community involvement to rehabilitation and the people behind those efforts, Inside CDCR looks back at…
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…
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…
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…
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…