Four CAL FIRE employees from San Luis Obispo County have been awarded the Governor's State Employee Medal of Valor. - Battalion Chief Chad Fleming rescued a civilian engulfed in flames during the Gifford Fire on Highway 166.
- Fire Captains Clint Marsalek, Carlos Pacheco, and Andrew Perez saved eight people from floodwaters during a severe winter storm in Avila Beach. - The medals were presented at a ceremony at the California State Capitol on June 12, 2026.
Unit Chief John Owens praised their extraordinary courage and dedication to public service.