Council Renames Fire Station in Honor of Lt. Robert Best Sr.

Published on September 24, 2026

Last night (September 23) the Melbourne City Council voted to rename Melbourne Fire Station 75 in honor of Lieutenant Robert Best Sr., a lifelong Melbourne resident who dedicated his life to serving the community and made history as the first African American lieutenant in the Melbourne Fire Department.

Lt. Best was born and raised in Melbourne. Following graduation from Melbourne High School, he served honorably in the United States Marine Corps from 1972 to 1974. He joined the Melbourne Fire Department in 1980 and was promoted to Driver Engineer in 1983 and then to Lieutenant/EMT in 1995. His promotion made him the first African American to obtain the rank of Lieutenant in the history of the Melbourne Fire Department.

During his career, he was recognized on numerous occasions for his professionalism and service. In 1983, he received a Commendation Bar for providing prompt first aid to a gunshot victim while off duty. He was also recognized for his work during the 1994 CITA Mission fire, 1997 Rio Vista Motel fire, and an incident at the Melbourne Square Mall in 2000. 

Best’s service to the community extended beyond the fire department. He coached baseball and basketball, giving his time to local youth and helping instill teamwork and discipline.

Lieutenant Best served the Melbourne Fire Department for more than 27 years, from March 17, 1980, until his passing on September 4, 2007. He is remembered for his historic achievement, dedicated public service, leadership and lasting contribution to the community. Renaming Station 75 in honor of Lt. Best will provide a long-lasting and permanent testament to his commitment to the City of Melbourne. 

The Lt. Robert Best Sr. Station is located at 151 East University Boulevard. A formal renaming ceremony will be held at the station on October 16 at 10:30 a.m.