Temecula Teen Receives Congressional Medal From Rep. Duncan Hunter

Josiah Bierle of Temecula is a standout, according to a local congressional representative.

On Wednesday, the 16-year-old was honored by Congressman Duncan Hunter (R) during the California Federation of Republican Women's Conference held at Pechanga Resort & Casino.

Josiah was presented the Congressional Award Silver Medal by Hunter for his work in areas of volunteer service, personal development, physical fitness, and expedition.

According to Josiah's dad, Shawn, the teen completed over 220 hours of volunteer service at the Temecula Public Library and the March Field Air Museum. His duties included shelving books, working to keep the Children's Library neat and orderly, helping to restore vintage aircraft at March, and becoming the first junior docent to lead tours at the air museum.

The award was also handed to Josiah for his personal development that consisted of hours of study and preparation to pass the FAA Private Pilot written test. According to Shawn, Josiah is continuing his training to receive his full pilot's certification on his 17th birthday. In March of this year, Josiah celebrated his 16th birthday by flying solo.

Josiah was also recognized for training and competing as a junior-Olympic-level swimmer for the Temecula Swim Club, and he was praised for a travel challenge that led him to a two-night stay in San Diego where he utilized only public transportation and remained within a prescribed budget.

"I have really grown through this program as it has allowed me to reach out to the community and meet a lot of people. I have gained work experience through the volunteer positions that I have held," Josiah said in a released statement.  

According to the statement, Josiah is preparing to apply to the U.S. Air Force Academy after high school. 

In Febuary 2012, Josiah was honored with the Congressional Award Bronze Medal by Rep. Darrell Issa.