OLYMPIA—A legendary rock guitarist from Seattle and four state workers who rescued a woman from a burning car were honored with Washington’s highest awards – the Medal of Merit and the Medal of Valor – during a ceremony at the State Capitol, Tuesday, March 18.
Secretary of State Steve Hobbs, joined by Governor Bob Ferguson, Lt. Governor Denny Heck, and State Representative Sharon Tomiko Santos, hosted the presentation ceremony, recognizing Jimi Hendrix and four members of the Department of Ecology for their deeds and service to the state of Washington.
“These five worthy recipients are the best of Washington and well deserving of our highest awards,” Hobbs said. “They represent the good people of our state through their actions, their impact, and their inspiration for Washington, the nation, and the world. We are forever grateful for their contributions.”
Jimi Hendrix was posthumously awarded the Medal of Merit for his outstanding service to Washington and his national and international recognition. He was born in Seattle in 1942 and died at the age of 27 but remains universally hailed as the greatest electric guitarist in the history of rock music and one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century.
Through his genius as an American rock guitarist, singer, and composer, he brought positive international attention and interest to his home state of Washington. His unique Washington State story and extensive musical contributions are included in the curriculum of Washington state history and musical arts in high schools and universities.
Alex Hernandez, Lisa Stingley, Dave Thompson, Jon Tollstrup were awarded the Medal of Valor for their unwavering courage and selfless actions on October 3, 2024. The four were working at a litter crew for the Department of Ecology when a woman lost control of their vehicle and crashed, trapping the driver in the car between trees on the side of the highway.
The situation quickly deteriorated as the vehicle caught on fire and the flames spread. Despite the serious risk to their own safety, the crew responded by attempting to extinguish the flames and forcing open the driver’s pinned door. The rescuers were able to pull the injured driver to safety seconds before the fire engulfed the vehicle.
The Medal of Merit honors those who gave a lifetime of service to the people of Washington. Previous recipients have given selflessly of themselves for a better Washington through public service, literature, medicine, and advocacy.
The Medal of Valor recognizes individuals who have risked their lives or personal safety to save, or attempt to save, another person’s life. The Medal of Valor cannot be awarded to police officers, fire fighters, or others whose actions are a result of their public duties as a first responder.
Source: Office of the Secretary of State
Author: Lynnwood Times Staff
