That commitment to service has now led him to Sterling, where he was sworn in Sept. 2 as deputy fire chief. “I think sometimes, especially in emergency situations, people need help, and they need help from people with a certain set of skills,” Melton said. “My main focus here is bolstering the training program,” Melton said. “I’m getting up to speed on their current training program and then looking for places where I can add value, add substance. Otherwise, you’re giving it away, and you don’t want to completely give it away.”As deputy chief, Melton’s focus is on strengthening the department’s training program while also taking command during emergencies.