Fast-Roping Helicopter Insertion Resulted in Catastrophic Fall

Naval Special Warfare Command identified Commander Brian Bourgeois, 43, who fell while fast-roping down from a helicopter during an exercise in Virginia Beach, Virginia. The specific circumstances of the accident have not been fully investigated at this time, but those familiar with the rapid airborne insertion technique are familiar with common points of failure.  The loss of an experienced, quality leader and O-5 officer is a tremendous blow to command, and the Navy at large. 

Commander Bourgeois leaves an immense gap in SEAL Team 8, with command being transferred to another executive officer. The Lake Charles, Louisiana native completed his schooling in Texas before receiving his commission in the Naval Academy in May 2001 where he served the Navy and SpecWar community for more than 2 decades. His teammates describe him as a consummate professional and one of the most fun brothers to be around, a member of the team that made every deployment a little easier. He leaves behind his wife and 5 children, whom the Navy Football Brotherhood is organizing fundraising efforts to help support. Those willing may also donate to the Brian M. Bourgeois Family Fund through the All In All Time Foundation, a charity focused on supporting the families affected by the loss of Naval Special Warfare Personnel. 

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the Bourgeois family – and we will ensure our community remains in support of and in relationship with Brian's family and his children for life," said Rear Adm. H.W. Howard III, commander, Naval Special Warfare Command. "Brian was one of our very best leaders who possessed all the attributes that make our force effective. We will miss his charismatic leadership and faithful stewardship of our standard. His legacy carries on in teammates he served with, led and mentored."

FMI: www.aiatt.org