VVTA Honors 2 Bus Operators For Acts Of Compassion And Heroism

Shown, from left, are VVTA Board Chair James Noble, Board Member Curt Emick, Alternate Board Member Kim Mesen, Board Member Allison Lee, Lucia Gallegos, Robert Aguilera, Board Member Gabriel Reyes, and Victor Valley Transit CEO Nancie Goff. (Photo courtesy of VVTA)

At its April 2025 Board of Directors Meeting, the Victor Valley Transit Authority (VVTA) honored two bus operators, Robert Aguilera and Lucia Gallegos, for their exceptional actions in protecting and assisting vulnerable individuals while on duty. The VVTA Board of Directors presented each operator with a formal proclamation in recognition of their extraordinary service to the community.

Robert Aguilera, while driving along C Avenue, observed a small child standing alone in the middle of the road. Without hesitation, Aguilera safely stopped the bus, allowed the child to board, and immediately contacted VVTA dispatch to request assistance from a supervisor and the San Bernardino (CA) County Sheriff’s Department. He remained with the child until deputies arrived, who were then able to reunite the child with his mother.

Lucia Gallegos, operating Route 66 near Olive and G Streets, noticed an elderly man near a bus stop who appeared disoriented. After stopping the bus and speaking with him, she realized he was confused and possibly lost. Suspecting he may be experiencing dementia, Gallegos offered him a courtesy fare and contacted dispatch for help. A road supervisor and a Sheriff Deputy responded and discovered the man was from Bakersfield, CA. Thanks to Gallegos’ care and attentiveness, the man was safely reunited with his family and returned home via Greyhound bus.

“Lucia and Robert went above and beyond in their roles as VVTA bus operators, showing true heart, professionalism, and care. Their dedication made a real difference, and their service is a reflection of the values that keep our community moving forward. We’re proud to recognize their outstanding work,” VVTA Board Chair James Noble said. “Their actions remind us that public transportation is not just about moving people — it’s about watching out for one another. On behalf of the entire board, we thank Robert and Lucia for representing the best of what VVTA stands for.”

VVTA CEO Nancie Goff echoed that praise, stating, “Our operators are the face of VVTA, and what Robert and Lucia did exemplify our mission to serve with quality, efficiency and responsiveness. We are proud to have employees who respond with such compassion and awareness. Their actions made a real difference, and we are honored to recognize them.”

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