Skip to main content

Costa Applauds California Highway Patrol Officers Receiving Medal of Valor

February 20, 2013

Thanks Haller & Rivera for Heroic Service

February 20, 2013

Washington, DC – Rep. Jim Costa congratulated California Highway Patrol Officers Sean Haller and Rafael Rivera who were honored for their heroic service by Vice President Joe Biden and Attorney General Eric Holder. The two were among 18 public safety officers nationwide to receive the Public Safety Officer Medal of Valor, the highest national award for valor by public safety officers.

"Our law enforcement officers and firefighters put their lives in harm's way every day to protect our families and communities," said Costa. "Although no award can fully show our depth of gratitude for their dedicated, heroic service, this honor shows that we recognize and appreciate the risks they take for our safety. Officers Haller and Rivera went above and beyond the call of duty to rescue a fallen officer during a February 2010 firefight in Fresno County. Their work to protect and serve represents the best of our state and nation."

This honor was authorized by the Public Safety Officer Medal of Valor Act of 2001. The medal is awarded to public safety officers who have exhibited exceptional courage, regardless of personal safety, in the attempt to save or protect human life. Since the honor was first awarded in 2003, a total of 78 medals have been presented to public safety officers nationwide.

More information about the Medal of Valor Review Board and the nomination process is available at: www.ojp.usdoj.gov/medalofvalor.