A Claremont resident on Thursday was one of 25 Los Angeles police officers who received the department's highest honor. Sergeant Christopher Gomez was awarded the Medal of Valor for displaying exceptional heroism in 2007 when he rescued a man from a burning vehicle.

The medal was given to officers who showed bravery or heroism above and beyond the normal demands of police service, according to the Los Angeles Police Foundation.

On Aug. 16, 2006, Gomez witnessed a Nissan Sentra traveling about 100 mph while getting on the 110 Freeway in Los Angeles.

The Sentra swerved to avoid hitting another vehicle, spun out of control and collided with the center divider, according to the foundation.

The Sentra was engulfed in flames and the driver's door was pinned against the center divider.

Gomez attempted to open the passenger-side door, but it was jammed, according to the foundation.

Gomez smashed the passenger window with his baton, shortly before the car's dashboard caught fire. He then pulled the driver out the passenger-door window, essentially saving his life.

The ceremony honored the officers who received the medal.

Officers were also honored for rescuing residents from a burning building and saving the life of a fellow officer.

Los Angeles Police Chief William Bratton presented the medals at the 48th Medal of Valor ceremony at the Grand Ballroom at Hollywood and Highland.