the Bulletin April 2025

Medal of Valor T he 37th Annual Medal of Valor Ceremony, generously hosted by the Orange County Sheriff’s Advisory Council, was held this month to celebrate the exemplary service of 17 Department and community members. The Sheriff awarded 14 medals to personnel for nine incidents; three received the Medal for Courage, seven received the Medal for Merit and four received the Medal for Lifesaving. Two Orange County community members also were recognized and awarded the Plaque for Lifesaving for their heroic actions working alongside our personnel in two separate incidents -- rescuing a drowned toddler and providing lifesaving aid to a bicyclist struck by a commercial dump truck. This year’s Distinguished Employee medal was given to Technology Division Assistant Deputy Director Joe Giese, marking the first time in Department history that a member of professional staff received this prestigious honor. Assistant Deputy Director Giese’s contributions are well established over his 22-year career with the Department. To learn about Assistant Deputy Director Giese’s dedication and commitment, watch HERE . The medal recipients went above and beyond in their commitment to ensuring public safety and showed remarkable courage in the face of danger. Their unwavering service to the community is truly commendable. Congratulations to all who were recognized!

To View the Medal of Valor Opening Video CLICK HERE

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