A Stockton grandfather who gave his life trying to save his 13-year-old grandson from a burning home has been awarded one of North America’s highest honors for civilian heroism.
Jose Villalta, 68, of Stockton, was named a recipient of the Carnegie Medal for heroism in the Carnegie Hero Fund Commission’s September 21 announcement. The medal is awarded to people in the United States and Canada who place themselves in extraordinary danger while saving, or attempting to save, the lives of others.
For Stockton, Villalta’s recognition tells a deeply personal story of courage, family and sacrifice…