June 23, 2023 - CAL FIRE Madera-Mariposa-Merced officials report that CAL FIRE MMU Fire Captain Jake Bibby was awarded the Medal of Valor on Wednesday for his efforts in finding and assisting a father and son who were involved in a vehicle accident in 2022. The vehicle was traveling on Highway 49 between Coulterville and Bagby when it careened off the road down the steep embankment.

Captain Bibby and his crew were enroute to an emergency when he noticed car tracks leaving the road in the remote area. Upon return, he stopped to investigate, finding the vehicle which may have gone unnoticed due to the location.

The Governor’s State Employee Medal of Valor Awards is the highest honor California bestows upon its employees wherein the Governor awards gold or silver medals to honor and recognize state employees who risked their lives to save others or state property.  Since the program began in 1958, over 700 medals have been awarded.

Source & photos: CAL FIRE