The Gold Star medal is awarded for heroic deeds under extraordinary circumstances.
The employee shall display courage in the face of immediate peril in acting to save the life of another person.
2025 Gold Star recipients
Sandra Mendonca, Correctional Officer
California Medical Facility
Correctional Officer Sandra Mendonca came upon a catastrophic vehicle crash on Oct. 8, 2024, while traveling along Interstate 80.
A car had struck the center divider, leaving a woman trapped, bleeding, and in shock.
Without hesitation, Mendonca stopped, opened the damaged car door, and pulled the woman from the wreckage. She carried her across lanes of traffic to safety, shielding her from further harm.
Amid the danger of oncoming vehicles, she administered tactical first aid, stopping the bleeding and stabilizing the woman’s injuries while keeping her calm and alert.
Even after the immediate danger had passed, Mendonca stayed by the woman’s side, offering reassurance until paramedics arrived. Her quick thinking and selfless actions that day were instrumental in saving a life.
Alessandro Padilla, Correctional Sergeant
CPOST
While volunteering at Creekside Church in Elk Grove Dec. 16, 2024, coworkers Johnny Huynh and Correctional Sgt. Alessandro Padilla protected a woman facing a dangerous situation.
When the woman told them she was being followed by a man inside the building, Padilla immediately placed himself between her and the man, telling him to stop. The man ignored the commands, struck Padilla, and came toward him while brandishing a chair.
Padilla used his training to force the man to the ground, where Huynh moved in without hesitation. Huynh took control of the suspect’s arm and leg, helping immobilize him as he resisted.
Together, they maintained control until the suspect stopped fighting, and police arrived to take him into custody.
Their swift coordinated actions stopped a violent assault in a crowded public setting. Additional staff provided support after the suspect was restrained, helping ensure the safety of everyone present.
Note: Johnny Huynh was awarded the Silver Star for his actions.
Read more stories of bravery on Inside CDCR’s Above the Call series.