James Ladd
State Traffic Officer
California Highway Patrol
5/30/1986
Special Act Award (Gold)
![Gold Medal of Valor](images/photos/medal_of_valor_gold.jpg)
On May 30, 1986, California Highway Patrol Officer James Ladd crawled inside a smashed bus perched precariously in the Walker River, to organize the rescue of those trapped inside. Officer Ladd jeopardized his safety and life in an effort to save the lives of others, an act that went courageously above the normal call of duty.