Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Sergeant Ervin Julius Romans, II

Oakland Police Department, California

End of Watch Saturday, March 21, 2009

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Reflections for Sergeant Ervin Julius Romans, II

Lord Jesus, as we watch America’s Peace Officers succumb to the wicked and evil in this world, Shot and Killed in the Line-of-Duty, it becomes difficult for us to pick up and move forward. Our communities are on the brink of exploding with tension. In light of the peace officers who are no longer with us, I pray for endurance for our communities and law enforcement agencies. Carry us through this time of strife, that through our struggles, our bonds may grow even more unbreakable. In Your mighty and holy name, I pray. Amen.

Holy Scriptures on Law Enforcement’s Mission:

“For the policeman [peace officer] does not frighten people who are doing right; but those doing evil will always fear him. So if you don’t want to be afraid, keep the laws and you will get along well. The policeman [peace officer] is sent by God to help you. But if you are doing something wrong, of course you should be afraid, for he [the peace officer] will have you punished. He [the peace officer] is sent by God for that very purpose. Obey the laws, then, for two reasons: first, to keep from being punished, and second, just because you know you should.” [Romans 13:3-5 TLB]

[Jesus Said,] “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” [John 15:13 ESV]

And he [Jesus] said to him, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise.” [Luke 23:43 ESV]

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons [children] of God.” [Matthew 5:9 ESV]

“And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” Then I said, “Here am I! Send me.” [Isaiah 6:8 ESV]

Chaplain Steven R. Closs, DDiv, MSBS, NCCA, FCPO-USA
Ordained Christian Global Outreach Minister No. 36526
The Badge 183 Peacemakers Prayer Ministry

January 9, 2024

Thank you, Sergeant Ervin Julius Romans II, for your dedication and service to the people of California, City of Oakland. You will be missed by so many people, and you will be remembered by so many more people because of your dedication and service.

Retired First Sergeant Thomas Webb
New York State Police - Troop "D"

December 29, 2023

Thank you for your service and please know that your sacrifice is one that will never, ever be forgotten by your law enforcement brethren. Rest in peace always.

Detective Cpl/3 Steven Rizzo
Delaware State Police (Retired)

March 21, 2021

Erv, I'll always cherish the memories of our laughs in the range office when you fixed my runaway glock, or the last time we talked about the new recruits while we were filling up at the pumps after hitting 908d. Sometimes the bad memories will sneak in of when I helped take you out of your unmarked at ACH, and I knew you were gone. Who would've thought it would end this way...
Taking you home was the heaviest thing I've ever done, but we were all proud and honored to escort you home. That's what warriors do.
You'd be so proud of Justine and Kristine, and Nikki still misses you. I'm glad your folks are with you now, they never got over losing you.
It's been 11 years, but all of us Marines, OPD and honor guard think of you and Dan, Mark and John often, and we smile at the good times.
Take care brother. I'll see you in the tall grass. Semper fidelis.

Police Officer David Wong, ret.
Oakland Police Department, Oakland, CA

November 3, 2020

I'm running today to honor your memory. God bless your family. Thank you for your heroism as a fearless SWAT Sgt.

Ret Sgt C Perea

May 9, 2020

I don't remember a whole lot from my high school days, but this day is one memory that will stay with me forever, clear as water. I was driving by Seminary Av. when I saw all the units rolling code and had a gut feeling something bad had happened, and that feeling was confirmed by the news later that evening. As a new LEO, this memory has always subconsciously influenced my drive to be an officer. May you and the other three officers rest easy, and we'll hold the watch from here.

J. Duong
Alameda Police

May 2, 2020

Erv, I forget you not. You were a professional and a man I admired. I loved the range classes with you and was always proud to call you a brother in the battle. Semper Fi Erv. I served in the 1st Battalion 2nd Marines, 2nd Mar Div. You are not forgotten

Police Officer Tim Kelly
OPD

March 3, 2020

I was looking at the Wall of Honor today at OPD HQ. Seeing your name and the names of your three other fallen brothers from that horrible incident ten years ago was difficult. I hope you and your family know that you are not forgotten.

Police Officer K Shum
Stockton School Police

January 30, 2020

Scripture assures us that, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called [children] of God.” Matthew 5:9 ESV and “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” John 15:13 ESV.

Rev. Dr. Steven Robert Closs, DD, MSBS
Licensed & Ordained Independent Christian Minister
The Peacemakers Prayer Ministry
“An Intercessory Prayer Ministry for Law Enforcement”
Chartered by the National Association of Christian Ministers
Merrimack, NH 03054

Chaplain Steven R. Closs, DD, MSBS
Merrimack NH Police Department

July 29, 2018

Rest In Peace Brother in Blue. Thank you and your family for your sacrifice and service.

Officer Mike Robinson (Ret)
Upland Police Dept. CA

March 21, 2018

To the family of Sgt. Ervin Romans: Sgt. Roman's example will inspire many generations to come. He will never be forgotten. We know the sacrifice that you, the family have made, as well. We will stand behind you to push for no parole for those who kill policemen, and for a strengthening of tough sentences for repeat violent offenders. We will vote out of office those judges who sit in ivory towers and do not consider the rights of victims at least as much as they consider the rights of the criminals. We stand for stronger gun control laws and very strict enforcement and punishment for felons with firearms. Law abiding gun owners stand for responsible gun ownership.

California citizen
California citizen

March 17, 2018

To the family of Sergeant Romans, Ervin has not been forgotten, and he never will be forgotten. His soul rest in Heaven.

First Sergeant Tom Webb, Retired
New York State Police

January 24, 2018

Always remembered for your service, courage, kindness, and sacrifice. God bless you and your family.

Los Angeles Citizen
California Citizen

November 3, 2016

I'll always remember our talks on the range or out by the pumps, before hitting the streets. You are missed Erv. It was an honor for all of your OPD and USMC brothers to take you home. Semper Fidelis, SYOTOS.

Officer/ Investigator Dave Wong. Oaklan
Oakland Police Department

August 8, 2016

Rest in Peace

K.Brooks
Houston Police Dept.

June 16, 2016

7 year later..... Still not forgotten. RIP

Police Explorer Matthew Badie
San Leandro Police Department Explorer post #540

March 21, 2016

Seven years have passed since that horrific day. The filth who murdered you is a smear on the history of the Oakland Police Department, you Sir, are an honored hero. It would have been better if you were still here and simply a good guy doing his job.

God Bless you Sgt. Romans and may your eternal rest continue to be Peaceful.

Ptl. Jim Leahy, Jr.
Harvard University Police Dept.

March 21, 2016

It's been six years, but I still remember the tributes paid to you by your fellow officers and members of the community. The leadership of you, Sgt. Sakai, Sgt. Dunakin, and Officer Hege serve as inspiration to new generations of peace keepers. You four were the best and the brightest, men of great character. Thank you for choosing to serve the law-abiding citizens of Oakland. We know that you had other choices, but you four chose to serve in a dangerous city, not for the money, but to protect the citizens. May the Lord watch over your beloved Nikki and your children, and the families and loved ones of your fellow officers who died that day. We will never forget. You and Sgt. Sakai were killed by an assault rifle, not a normal rifle. May you four rest in peace and may your families know that your influence as positive role models continues to this day.

L. Norton

February 21, 2015

I was honored to be driving by when his memorial was reinstalled today.

Laura K

December 23, 2014

As the City of Mendota Heights MN lay to rest Officer Scott Patrick, I cannot help but think of my childhood friend Erv. All though they both left us to early, I can feel safe knowing that they both served with courage, dignity and love for the citizens of their respective communities. May God bless them and them safe now and forever.

Cheryl Brunello
Friend/supporter

August 6, 2014

Erv,
I was camping with some our old friends this weekend. Stories regarding some of our adventures and your exploits were told around the campfire and fondly remembered.

Rob Roche
OPD

June 2, 2014

"Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God."
Matthew 5:9

Marshal Chris Di Gerolamo
Federal Air Marshal Service

March 21, 2013

I knew the moment you left the house on that SWAT CALL that day, that something would be so totally different when you came home... but you NEVER CAME HOME
My husband, theres never a moment in the day that thoughts don't go to you, and theres never a day or night that I'm not grateful for the angel thats by my side helping me to move forward in life. I cant thank you enough for all THe BLESSINGS THat I KNOW YOU HAVE SENT ME FROM ABOVE .... I think my favorite blessing is the strength, confidence and love, you gave me while YOU were here on earth so that I could be there for our children in this aftermath of losing you. I know YOU see how amazing their doing but their hearts still bleed for their Pops... Your Love & Strength also gave me the WILL to GO MOVE MY HUMP EVERYDAY and enjoy the life of my New Normal without you. I promise that YOU ~ Will always be apart of my HEART forever & ever!!!!

Since theres 51 of you AMAZING OAKLAND POLICE ANGELS, can you please spread your Beautiful Wings as protection to your OPD Brother & Sisters and all who selflessly wear the badge To Protect & Serve.... THANK YOU~ Mark, Danny, John and my Ervin!!!!

Standing in the Light of your Halo, I've got my Angel Now !!!!

I will miss you forever and always my love!!!!

~Nikki
Wife

February 1, 2013

I have laid down my life in service to all of you.
I have been a part of the fabric that has held the line between your safety and your victimization.
As I now become a part of the rich history of law enforcement, please remember me always for I have left behind those who loved and depended upon me.
I have given my life so that others may live in peace.
My partners and my agency, please remember my family, their loss, and don’t let time soften your compassion for them.
You guard the gate now and I will continue my watch from above.

Captain Doug Gist (retired) Washoe S.O.
Silver State National Peace Officers Museum

August 6, 2012

It has been three years, but Erv still lingers in my thoughts. Sergeant Ervin Romans was my cousin, and, as a young boy, he was a definite role model for me. When my mother called me to inform me of his death, I was shocked. I had not seen Erv in over twenty years, and it broke my heart that I would not see him again. I spent time with his parents and brother later that same year, thankfully, as his Dad would pass away just a couple months later. He will always be in my thoughts, not only as a role model, but as one who gave his life (as well as the other officers who fell that day) to protect others like me. To all four of you, thank you for your service.

Steven D. Stansloski
Cousin

July 8, 2012

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