By Ben Wright
Columbus Ledger-Enquirer
A former Army Ranger and eight-year veteran of the Muscogee County Sheriff’s Office has been tapped as the new director of Homeland Security.
“It’s a blessing, a very humbling experience,” Brad Hicks said minutes after Columbus Mayor Jim Wetherington announced his selection during a Friday news conference.
Hicks served with the 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Fort Benning before joining the sheriff’s office in 2000. He will take over the position formerly held by Lt. Randy Robertson. As director, Hicks will be responsible for coordinating training and preparing the city for man-made disasters such as terrorist attacks, and natural disasters, including hurricanes, tornadoes and severe weather.
Hicks, 32, couldn’t help but think about the Ranger creed when asked how he worked his way through the ranks at the sheriff’s office to become Homeland Security director. “I’m dedicated not only to myself but the people I serve,” Hicks said. “I think that’s what I was put here to do.”
A native of San Diego but raised in Los Angeles, Hicks was promoted from sergeant to lieutenant to take the position. His most recent position was assistant commander of the Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and Explosive Response Team; he also served as commander of the bomb squad and was sent to New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina. Hicks is a graduate of the FBI Hazardous Devices School at Redstone Arsenal, Huntsville, Ala., and holds certifications in hazardous materials, special weapons and other specialized skills.
Muscogee County Sheriff John Darr said Hicks was the best choice for the residents of Muscogee County. “His credentials and training speak for itself,” Darr said. “I think he was the best person for this job.”
Hicks, who was assigned an assistant in the office, said he will continue to work with Fort Benning and other law enforcement agencies.
“I will actively and aggressively seek grants and equip agencies with not only training but the equipment to continue to secure this homeland,” Hicks said.
As director of the office, Hicks will earn about $42,578 a year.
Robertson, now a major and assigned over administration in the sheriff’s office, served two and half years in the office. The mayor thanked him for his service and presented him a gift.
The former director has high hopes for Hicks. “I think Brad will take it to a different level with his certification and training,” Robertson said.
Hicks is known in the mayor’s office for dropping by the sixth-floor office about 5 p.m. before closing and asking for a cup of day-old coffee. “He can drink it straight up,” Wetherington said. “He talks about what good coffee we make. Anybody who can drink day-old coffee has got to be good.”
Copyright 2009 Columbus Ledger-Enquirer