Sheriff has story worth hearing

Local columnist

link Betty Williamson

As he finishes his second term as Roosevelt County sheriff, you might expect Darren Hooker to be full of stories about crimes his department has solved, or bad guys he’s helped put behind bars.

While I’m sure there is no shortage of those tales, the one Hooker is most eager to share has nothing to do with handcuffs or late night patrols or drug busts, but rather backpacks and hiking boots and a 560-mile trek he and his wife, Cecily, took across Spain this summer.

During Cecily’s summer break (she teaches sixth grade at Lindsey-Steiner elementary), the two spent 42 days on the Camino de Santiago from St. Jean Pied de Port, France, to Santiago, Spain, walking a pilgrimage that others have taken for centuries retracing the steps of St. James.

“I have jumped out airplanes, dove in the ocean, been through the Panama Canal in a landing craft, and led men in combat,” Hooker said. “Those things do not compare to the time I had on this journey. I learned so many new and wonderful things about Cecily that can never be undone. She and I are so much better off for having done the Camino.”

While they’ve already spoken to several local groups, Darren said, “We would love to present our program to anyone or any group that will listen.”

Give the sheriff a call. He has a story worth hearing.

Betty Williamson has never walked 560 miles in 42 days … yet. You may reach her at:

[email protected]