Decades after his ultimate sacrifice, Special Reserve Officer Stephen Clark has been posthumously awarded the Medal of Valor by the California Reserve Peace Officers Association. He was recognized for his courageous actions on a fateful night 1956 at the Bay Meadows Racetrack. As reported by the San Mateo Police Department's official Facebook page, Clark directed a lifesaving response to a catastrophic crash that ultimately claimed his life.

The incident occurred on the evening of August 19, 1956, during a car race. A collision caused two race cars to breach the safety fence, posing an immediate threat to onlookers. Clark hastily organized a team and led them across the track to aid the crash victims. While tending to the injured drivers, Clark's dedication led him directly into harm's way. He was hit by another race car and succumbed to his injuries after being taken to Mills Memorial Hospital.

Clark's tenure with the San Mateo Police Department spanned nine years as a Volunteer Reserve Officer, with 15 years of total service to the City of San Mateo. Described as someone who devoted himself to community service, Clark's memory is honored with this posthumous award. Chief Ed Barberini accepted the Medal of Valor on his behalf during the ceremony held earlier this month.

Every year since Clark's passing, the San Mateo Police Department has conducted a memorial service on August 19 to remember and pay homage to Clark's act of valor and his selfless service.