Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Officer Melton,
On today, the 20th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Gardena. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

November 1, 2023

Officer Melton, I was doing some work in Gardena last week. Your spirit rides with us all as we conduct our duties. You will never be forgotten and are in our hearts always.

Deputy Sheriff Los Angeles
County Sheriff

November 1, 2020

Rest in peace Officer Melton.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

July 14, 2020

I am currently in the Los Angeles Sheriffs Academy, and reflecting on Police Officer Robert D. Melton’s memorial page. I grew up in Redondo Beach and Gardena is the next city over. Growing up you never hear about incidents such as this but after taking some time to reflect on the career path I’ve chosen it really hits hard. And it being so close to home on a street I frequently drive down it makes you realize anything can happen anywhere. Also to battle with the injury for so long. Now, every time I drive down Vermont I will remember Police Officer Robert D. Melton and the ultimate sacrifice he made fearlessly in the line of duty.

Trainee Dylan Fabian
Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department

April 4, 2019

Dear Officer Melton (Bob),

Today, some 15 years since your passing, as I reflected upon my own good fortune and the blessings that have been bestowed upon me, somehow, out of the blue, God reminded me of you and the ultimate sacrifice you made in the service of those in need.

I worked with you circa February 1971 to May 1973 when you were first a Reserve Officer at Gardena, and then became a full time Police Officer. My memories of you are that you were the most kind, humble and gracious person anyone could ever meet. I knew then as I know now that you were an honorable, decent and hard working Police Officer that we can all be grateful for.

I left Gardena PD in May 1973 and went to work next door at the Torrance Police Department, and we did not have further contact. But I remember the tragedy of your fateful event like it was yesterday, even though it has been nearly 40 years ago. For years, you bravely battled the injury you suffered, as an inspiration to all.

I am confident that through your suffering, God prepared a very special place in Heaven for you, which you richly deserve. I wish to ensure that you and all who knew and love you that your sacrifice was not in vain, and has not been forgotten. No one should ever forget that you were a very important reason why Gardena was, and still is, a very special place, thanks to your effort to preserve, protect, and defend the City of Gardena and its law abiding inhabitants.

I thank you for your bravery. May almighty God bless you, your loved ones, and the City of Gardena.

Captain Emilio Paerels (retired)
Torrance Police Department 1973--2003

August 20, 2018

Rest In Peace Brother. We remember and honor you on the 14th anniversary of your E.O.W. Thank you and your family for your service and sacrifice.

Officer Mike Robinson, (Ret)
Upland Police Dept. CA

November 1, 2017

As a citizen of the city of Gardena, I thank you Officer Melton for making the ultimate sacrifice for our community. I was never able to meet you in person, I only hope that I will someday meet you in heaven and I can thank you personally.

AJ Police Explorer
Gardena Police Department

February 21, 2017

To fully appreciate the heroes of the present, we must recognize our heroes of the past. Your heroism and service is honored today, the 13th anniversary year of your death. I am privileged to be among the first to leave a tribute to you.

Your memory lives and you continue to inspire. Thank you for your service. My cherished son Larry Lasater was a fellow police officer who was murdered in the line of duty on April 24, 2005 while serving as a Pittsburg, CA police officer.

Time never diminishes respect. Your memory will always be honored and revered. Rest In Peace.

Phyllis Lasater Loya
mom of fallen Pittsburg Officer Larry Lasater, eow 4/24/05

December 11, 2016

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

Marshal Chris Di Gerolamo
Federal Air Marshal Service

November 2, 2016

Officer Melton, for 22 years you suffered due to the act of an obvious animal, but you didn't give up the fight. You truly are a hero and I'm grateful that you are now represented here on this site and no doubt will be listed in Washington, DC.

Thank you for your service. God Bless and may you continue to walk proud in Heaven for all eternity, Brother.

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

November 1, 2016

Officer Melton,
On today, the 13th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Gardenia. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

November 1, 2016