On January 25, 2003, Wildlife Agents in Region I awoke to the tragic news that James Howard Brooks, age 55, had passed away in a house fire.

James exemplified the true characteristics of wildlife professional. James was the recipient of the State's Wildlife Specialist of the Year awarded by the Louisiana chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation. To the Wildlife Agents that worked in the Jackson-Bienville WMA, James' true professionalism showed in his maintenance and care of the WMA. James' efforts clearly resulted in Jackson-Bienville being one of the nicest, well maintained WMA's in the State.

James Brooks will not only be missed by the Wildlife personnel of Region I as a co-worker, but most of all as a genuine friend.