Equipment Operator II

Department of Transportation

1/12/2021

Special Service Award (Silver)

On January 12, 2021, Caltrans Equipment Operator II Matthew Pina was on shift as a San Francisco / Oakland Bay Bridge Emergency Service Tow Truck Operator. At approximately 6:00 p.m., Mr. Pina responded to an abandoned vehicle parked on the eastern span of the bridge. It was located adjacent to heavy evening commute traffic in dark and foggy conditions. Mr. Pina found the vehicle abandoned and looked around for the driver. He intercepted a radio call regarding a pedestrian walking on the bridge nearby. Mr. Pina continued driving to locate the pedestrian. He found the pedestrian on the outer railing of the bridge. Mr. Pina used his tow truck as a shield and protective barrier to traffic, and contacted the distressed young man who appeared to be contemplating suicide. He told Mr. Pina that nobody loved him, and he did not want to live. Mr. Pina spoke compassionately and in a calm manner to the young man. During their dialogue, Mr. Pina encouraged him to live and was able to safely guide the young man to climb back over the railing. He continued the compassionate dialogue with the young man until the California Highway Patrol arrived on scene. It is because of Mr. Pina’s actions that this young man is still alive. With no regard for his own safety, Mr. Pina went above and beyond the call of duty. The State of California takes great pride in presenting the Silver Medal of Valor to Department of Transportation Equipment Operator II Matthew Pina.