Take a few minutes to feel inspired: Watch the full Citizens of Courage Awards, an inspiring virtual event honoring ordinary citizens who showed extraordinary courage in the face of crime! San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan honored four brave local heroes this week at the San Diego County District Attorney’s 31st Annual Citizens of Courage Awards, held every year during National Crime Victims’ Rights Week. Once again, this event was held virtually on Wednesday, April 27, 2022.

“Today, we’re highlighting the extraordinary courage of victims and good Samaritans, who were placed in dangerous and trying circumstances,” DA Stephan said. “We’re also shining a light on the thousands of crime victims our DA team has the honor of serving every year and the importance of supporting victims’ rights.”

This year’s Citizens of Courage recipients include:

• Eddie Michel – Eddie is a facilities supervisor at San Diego City College who came to the aid of a woman being sexually assaulted on campus. He put himself in danger to stop the attack.
• Bruce Mezan – Bruce was riding his motorcycle when he was hit by a drunk driver and lost part of his leg. He now speaks out in the community about the dangers of driving under the influence.
• Rosa Martinez – During a mas shooting at a fast-food restaurant, Rosa called 911, ran inside to locate her daughter and offered help to victims who had been shot.
• Oscar Stewart – During the shooting at a local synagogue, Oscar, who was unarmed, protected hi wife, stepdaughter and other congregants in the prayer room by chasing after the shooter and scaring him away.

Watch their inspiring stories in the video.