Palm Bay Fire Rescue Swears in Two New Assistant Chiefs, Celebrates Promotions and Awards

Palm Bay Fire Rescue Celebrates Promotions and Award Winners

BREVARD COUNTY • PALM BAY, FLORIDA — Palm Bay Fire Rescue continues to strengthen its leadership ranks and celebrate departmental excellence with the swearing-in of two new Assistant Chiefs, the addition of new recruits, multiple promotions, and several prestigious regional awards.

During a recent pinning ceremony hosted at Heritage High School, Fire Chief Stover officially swore in Assistant Chief April Rattray and Assistant Chief Mark Weiss, who will now serve as part of the department’s command staff. The ceremony marked a significant milestone in the department’s continued growth over the past two months.

City leadership joined firefighters and their families to commemorate the occasion, with both the Palm Bay Mayor and City Manager in attendance to show their support for Palm Bay Fire Rescue and its expanding team.

In addition to the command staff appointments, Palm Bay Fire Rescue welcomed two new hire classes and recognized multiple internal promotions, including new Lieutenants and Driver Engineers. The advancements reflect the department’s commitment to professional development and operational excellence.

Earlier in the day, Palm Bay Fire Rescue members were honored at the Space Coast Fire Chiefs Association Awards, earning top recognition among regional fire service professionals:

■ Valerie Baptiste, Fire Inspector and Community Outreach Advocate, received the Fire Inspector of the Year award

■ Brian Miller, Battalion Chief, was named Chief Officer of the Year

■ Colter Klasek, Firefighter, earned Firefighter of the Year and was presented with a new leather helmet

Department officials praised the award recipients for their dedication, leadership, and service to the community.

Fire Chief Stover noted that the department’s success in 2025 is directly tied to the professionalism and hard work of its members, calling the year “fantastic” and crediting the people of Palm Bay Fire Rescue for making continued progress possible.

Palm Bay Fire Rescue also expressed appreciation to Heritage High School for hosting the ceremony and supporting the department.

With new leadership, growing ranks, and regional recognition, Palm Bay Fire Rescue says it remains focused on advancing its mission of protecting life, property, and the community it serves.

Similar Stories