Captain Joe Hunter
Sacramento Fire Department, Station 2
Sacramento, CA
Captain Joe Hunter was nominated by Erica Soria of Our Infinite Company.Captain Hunter exemplifies what it means to serve both in uniform and beyond. As a longtime Sacramento firefighter and a two-time contestant on the reality show Survivor, Captain Hunter has used every platform available to him to advocate for victims of domestic violence and their families.
His advocacy was born from tragedy. In 2011, Captain Hunter lost his beloved sister, Joanna, whose suspicious death was prematurely ruled a suicide. Rather than allowing grief to silence him, Captain Hunter channeled his pain into purpose. Partnering with Senator Angelique Ashby, he worked tirelessly to help author and pass Senate Bill 989, also known as "Joanna's Law." This groundbreaking legislation is the first of its kind in the country, equipping investigators and families with the tools to identify domestic violence-related deaths correctly.
Captain Hunter bravely testified before the California Legislature, sharing his personal story and carrying a photo of his sister to ensure her memory guided the fight for justice. His courage is already shaping a safer future for countless families across California. California now has the nation's first law to identify domestic violence–related fatalities, giving grieving families real answers. Over a hundred investigators and first responders have completed Joanna's Law training, resulting in more thorough and compassionate investigations.
Children in Sacramento look up to "Captain Joe" as someone who turns personal loss into genuine hope, reminding everyone that heroes wear uniforms—and sometimes carry megaphones. Captain Hunter's impact is already far-reaching. He has helped change California law, uplifted the voices of survivors and families, and used his growing platform to educate and inspire. Moving forward, Captain Hunter remains committed to using his voice to advocate for domestic violence awareness, survivor support, and stronger community protections. Through both his career in the fire service and his public platform, he plans to continue serving with integrity, compassion, and courage.