CSLEA President Alan Barcelona serves on Governor’s Medal of Valor Review Board

SACRAMENTO – On June 16, 2026, California Statewide Law Enforcement Association (CSLEA) President Alan Barcelona attended the Governor’s Public Safety Officer Medal of Valor award ceremony held at the Governor’s Mansion to honor and thank two public safety officers who bravely went above and beyond the call of duty to save lives.

“For many years, I have had the immense privilege of serving on the Governor’s Public Safety Officer Medal of Valor Review Board, where I have learned of extraordinary acts of courage and service by public safety professionals who have put the safety of others before their own,” said Barcelona.  “These two brave officers awarded the Medal of Valor this year put their lives on the line as they protected individuals whose lives were in danger.  These two men are beyond heroic and have earned our praise and respect.”

The Public Safety Officer Medal of Valor Act of 2003 gives the Governor authority to award medals to public safety officers who are recognized by the Attorney General for extraordinary valor above and beyond the call of duty. The Attorney General’s Office receives nominations from public safety agencies. These nominations are reviewed by the Medal of Valor Review Board, which makes a recommendation to the Attorney General. 

This year’s Public Safety Officer Medal of Valor recipients are:

Sergeant George Imirian, Fresno Police Department

On October 26, 2024, Sergeant Imirian responded to reports of gunfire and a homicide scene. When the armed suspect returned and opened fire on his patrol vehicle, striking him multiple times, Sergeant Imirian pursued and engaged the suspect despite his injuries. Before collapsing from blood loss, he called for medical assistance for both himself and the suspect, helping bring the incident to a close and preventing further harm.

Officer Adam Yu, Long Beach Police Department

On May 13, 2024, Officer Yu responded to a crash involving a stolen vehicle following a freeway pursuit. After helping remove multiple occupants, he learned an individual remained trapped inside as flames began engulfing the vehicle. Officer Yu led fellow officers back to the burning car and helped free the trapped passenger, saving her life moments before the vehicle became fully engulfed. 

“These public servants represent the very best of California. When confronted with danger, uncertainty, and moments that demanded immediate action, they stepped forward without hesitation. Their courage saved lives, their selflessness inspired others, and their service reminds us that heroism is not defined by a title—it is defined by the choices we make when others need us most,” said Governor Gavin Newsom.