Awards and Appreciation

2023 Medal of Valor nominations are open

Medal of Valor logo

Honors note bravery, exemplary service

Nominations for Medal of Valor will be accepted through January 31, 2023. The awards recognize employees who distinguished themselves the previous year.

The awards recognize heroism, bravery, or service beyond the normal demands of correctional/community service.

Last year, CDCR honored 44 people. The awards noted bravery in responding to crises and life-threatening situations. Exemplary work of benefit to the department and the community also drew awards.

(Learn more about the 2022 awards.)

Top CDCR leaders made the presentations to the honorees.

Road to Medal of Valor honors begins with nominations

The selection of each of those honored begins with a nomination for deeds done in the calendar year from Jan. 1 to Dec. 31, 2022. Recognition for exemplary work can be for work over years.

The nomination must be made by a supervisory or managerial employee. The nominee must be in good standing with CDCR.

Nominations are accepted for a variety of deeds.

Honors often cover heroic or life-saving acts off-duty. Years of exceptional service may also bring an honor.

The nomination should clearly outline the exceptional nature of a nominee’s actions. An extra page may be included if an explanation requires more room.

How to get nomination forms

If you want a fillable nomination form or more information, email Michelle Mraule (email found in Global).

Each nomination should be submitted in a separate email with the form attached.

Nominations for one collective act, but with many people involved, may be submitted in one email.

In addition to the Medal of Valor, honors include the Gold Star, Silver Star, Bronze Star, Unit Citation and Distinguished Service Medal.

The Medal of Valor Committee determines what honors to award each nominee when members meet this spring.

The Medal of Valor Ceremony will be held in September 2023.

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