STATEWIDE, Md., June 3, 2025 — Master Deputy State Fire Marshal and Bomb Technician Bill Potts has been named the Bomb Squad nominee for the 2024 Deputy State Fire Marshal of the Year award, recognizing his exceptional service, technical expertise, and leadership. Potts will compete with five other nominees from the Maryland Office of the State Fire Marshal’s regional offices at the Maryland State Firefighters Convention in Ocean City next month for the prestigious “James C. Robertson, Deputy State Fire Marshal of the Year” award.
Potts’ nomination, submitted by Deputy Chief and Bomb Squad Commander Duane Svites, highlights his pivotal role in the Bomb Squad and the Underwater Hazardous Devices Team (UHDT). “Bill’s contributions to our Bomb Squad and the Underwater Hazardous Devices Team go far beyond the call of duty. His leadership during critical incidents and his dedication to the professional development of his team make him truly deserving of this honor,” Svites said.
In 2024, Potts served as the primary Bomb Technician on 29 Bomb Squad calls, assisted in numerous others as a secondary technician, and conducted 59 explosive-related inspections. As the Office of the State Fire Marshal’s Maritime Coordinator, he has shaped national standards for the UHDT, ensuring readiness for underwater explosive ordnance disposal. A certified Master Diver, Potts independently organizes and leads bi-weekly UHDT training sessions to maintain the unit’s elite capabilities.
His leadership was critical during the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse on March 26, 2024, a mass casualty and marine recovery event triggered by a cargo ship collision. Responding to a 2:30 a.m. call from the Maryland State Police Dive Team commander, Potts mobilized the UHDT, arriving within an hour with essential equipment, including the Dive Command Unit, remotely operated vehicle, Zodiac boat, dive trailer, and full dive gear. He led the operation over several days, coordinating a complex response under challenging conditions. “M/DSFM Potts’s consistent performance and selfless dedication have earned him national recognition as both a Bomb Technician and a UHDT leader, solidifying his reputation within Maryland and across the country,” Svites added.
Potts’ work extends beyond emergency responses. His commitment to training and mentoring ensures the Bomb Squad and UHDT remain prepared for high-stakes missions. His inspections and operational standards enhance safety protocols for handling explosives and maritime hazards across Maryland.
The “James C. Robertson” award, named after a distinguished Maryland fire marshal, honors deputies who demonstrate outstanding dedication to public safety. Potts’ nomination reflects his impact on the agency’s mission to protect Maryland residents from fire, arson, and explosive threats. The Office of the State Fire Marshal, part of the Maryland Department of State Police, has a 130-year history as the nation’s oldest state fire marshal’s office, focusing on investigations, fire prevention, and code enforcement.
The convention in Ocean City will bring together fire service professionals to celebrate achievements like Potts’. His contributions, particularly during the Key Bridge incident, underscore the critical role of specialized units in managing Maryland’s most severe emergencies. The winner of the 2024 award will be announced during the convention, recognizing one deputy’s exemplary service among a field of highly qualified nominees.