SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) – Three Caltrans employees received the Governor’s State Employee Medal of Valor, California’s highest honor for public servants who perform extraordinary acts of heroism at great personal risk.
The awards recognize actions taken beyond the normal call of duty to protect and save lives.
“The heroism recognized today from these Caltrans employees reflects the extraordinary courage, selflessness and commitment to keep Californians safe,” California Transportation Secretary Toks Omishakin said. “We are grateful for these employees and proud to join Governor Newsom in honoring their actions.”
Caltrans Director Dina El-Tawansy said the employees demonstrated exceptional bravery while helping others in dangerous situations.
“These workers bravely risked their personal safety to provide life-saving service to their communities and the people of California,” El-Tawansy said. “Today, the entire Caltrans family joins Governor Newsom in honoring their selfless acts and thank them for their willingness to help others.”
Tobin Hook, a District 5 landscape associate, and Anthony Coscia, a District 5 transportation engineer, received the Gold Medal of Valor. The pair entered the Pacific Ocean near Davenport in Santa Cruz County on Aug. 29, 2024, to rescue a drowning woman. They helped bring her safely to shore and provided CPR and other life-saving measures until emergency responders arrived.
Steve Quinliven, a District 1 equipment operator, received the Silver Medal of Valor for his actions on May 12, 2025. Quinliven provided first aid and assisted a distressed female motorist whose vehicle was hanging over an embankment beneath State Route 162 in Mendocino County. He remained with the woman until emergency personnel arrived.
The State Employee Medal of Valor program began in 1959 under Gov. Edmund G. Brown Sr.
During the program’s 67-year history, more than 800 state employees have received the award, including 133 Caltrans employees recognized for acts of courage and selflessness.