Cherokee County
Fire & Emergency Services
Fire & Emergency Services
Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services (CCFES) proudly congratulates Fire Apparatus Operator Brooke Ice on receiving the prestigious Whitney M. Young Jr. Service Award during a reception held at the National Center for Civil and Human Rights in Atlanta.
The Whitney M. Young Jr. Service Award recognizes outstanding service by an adult individual or organization that demonstrates an exceptional commitment to creating and expanding opportunities for youth from rural communities and low-income backgrounds.
For Brooke, the recognition represents a commitment to service that began long before her career in the fire service. At just 14 years old, she joined the Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services Explorer Post, beginning a journey that would ultimately shape both her career and her passion for mentoring young people.
Today, Brooke serves CCFES as a Fire Apparatus Operator and Paramedic, bringing more than 10 years of experience serving the citizens of Cherokee County. In addition to her operational responsibilities, she serves as the Lead Advisor for CCFES Explorer Post 469, where she plays an instrumental role in preparing the next generation of public safety professionals and community leaders.
Through her involvement with the Explorer Post, Brooke helps guide and mentor approximately 30 young men and women from across Cherokee County. Participants receive hands-on exposure to the fire and emergency services profession while developing valuable skills in emergency response, teamwork, leadership, and community service. Her investment in these young people extends beyond introducing them to a potential career; she helps build confidence, character, and a lasting commitment to serving others.
Brooke’s dedication to public service is also deeply rooted in her family. Following in the footsteps of her parents, both retired firefighters, she has made service to others a central part of her life. Having once experienced the Explorer program as a young participant herself, she now has the opportunity to provide that same encouragement, guidance, and inspiration to others.
“Brooke’s story is a powerful example of the impact that mentorship and service can have across generations. She once sat in the same seats as the young people she now mentors, and today she is helping create opportunities for them to discover their own potential,” said Fire Chief Kevin Lanier. “We are incredibly proud of Brooke, not only for her dedication as a member of CCFES, but also for the time and passion she invests in developing the next generation. This recognition is well deserved.
Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services is proud to have Brooke as a member of its team and is grateful for the difference she continues to make both within the department and throughout the community.