Honoring their sacrifices, perseverance

Willie Brooks didn't consider decades ago that he was paving the way for other African-American deputies when he first accepted a job as a Hernando County Sheriff's deputy in 1964.
Neither did he think that more than 40 years later a building would be erected honoring him and other black men who risked their lives for public safety.
But gathered with other community members Wednesday, Brooks witnessed the dedication of the South Brooksville Community Office, honoring the first African-American deputies.
However, Brooks said he isn't as concerned about being honored as a law enforcement officer as he is pleased that a building is now in a community where those needing help - not necessarily law enforcement related - will receive it.
"I'm just glad to see this down here - especially for the kids," Brooks said. "There are a lot of opportunities here, and it's great the community could come together to do this."
Hernando County Sheriff Richard Nugent said the opening of the office is a long time coming. The building became a reality with the help of donations, efforts of members of the Shiloh Problem Solvers and funds seized by drug dealers. The total cost of the project was $245,000.
Although recent budget cuts from the county negated plans for the sheriff's department to staff the office, Nugent said Pastor Clarence Clark, who is CEO of Shiloh, and other volunteers stepped in to staff the office.
Clark said the office will now be a safe haven for those who want to turn their lives around and for volunteers to help children and teens who are struggling in school and at home.
During the mornings, the building would act as a main "access point" with computers available for those taking online classes to earn high school diplomas and those looking for work. He added that volunteers would be available to help those who come to the center.
From 3 to 6 p.m. the center would be open for mentoring and other after-school programs to help children and teens.
"Our goal is to meet the needs of all the dynamics of our community," Clark said. "This place should be a safe haven for those who want to get out of their rut of living a life of crime. And for our youth especially, that ticket out is getting an education."
During the ceremony, former deputies Lee Lawson - who is now deceased - and Brooks were honored for their commitment to law enforcement and for their endeavors during a time when equal rights were still much disputed.
In a letter written by Brooks, he described working with Lawson and using his own vehicle with a light attached to it to patrol, transport prisoners and travel to court hearings.
Photos of Brooks and Lawson during their tenure as deputies are now on display at the community office.