Fallen Fire Engineer Robert “BJ” Myers Honored With Sea Of Blue In Victorville
VICTORVILLE, Calif. (VVNG.com) — The San Bernardino County Fire Protection District announced Thursday afternoon the passing of active-duty Fire Engineer Robert “BJ” Myers, a respected firefighter remembered for his service, leadership, and commitment to the community.
According to a written statement from the San Bernardino County Fire Protection District, Myers passed away Thursday morning surrounded by family, friends, his service dog “Scout,” and fellow County Fire members.
“He served with honor, professionalism, and courage,” the department stated. “He was a valued member of our Community Outreach and Support Team (C.O.A.S.T.), and a true public servant who demonstrated compassion and commitment to the community.”
Before Myers’ body was transported from Desert Valley Hospital, firefighters and public safety personnel gathered outside the Victorville medical center to conduct a solemn “Sea of Blue,” also known as a “Cordon of Honor,” a ceremonial tradition reserved for fallen firefighters as they are moved from one location to another.
As colleagues stood at attention and rendered hand salutes, Myers’ flag-draped body was carried by an honor guard and placed into a waiting hearse. An American flag draped over the gurney as firefighters paid their final respects during the solemn procession.
Outside the hospital, two fire truck aerial ladders were extended high above the roadway, suspending a large American flag between them. The towering display created a patriotic archway as Myers was escorted from the hospital.
The procession then traveled to Victor Valley Mortuary on Eleventh Street in Victorville, where firefighters and public safety personnel once again assembled to honor Myers as he arrived. A similar ceremonial reception was held as members of the fire service stood in formation to pay tribute to their fallen brother.
Myers’ commitment to the fire service extended beyond emergency response. According to a profile published in FIREWIRE Fall 2015, Myers served as an engineer assigned to Station 319 at Southern California Logistics Airport (SCLA) in Victorville.
The profile noted that Myers was an Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) certified firefighter who served as the station’s ARFF training coordinator, overseeing training requirements and helping firefighters obtain the certifications necessary to work at the airport facility.
According to FIREWIRE, Myers coordinated continuing education training, assisted personnel seeking ARFF certification, and worked to simplify the qualification process by creating training and sign-off packets designed to guide firefighters through the specialized program.
The publication highlighted Myers’ role in maintaining training standards required for airport operations and his efforts to mentor and prepare firefighters for assignments within the county’s ARFF program.
“We extend our deepest condolences and prayers to his children, family, friends, and colleagues of Engineer Myers,” the department said.
Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced. The department said additional details will be shared once finalized.
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