Burke County Sheriff Alfonzo Williams received the 2024 United States President’s Lifetime Achievement Award on Dec. 30, 2024.
In partnership with AmeriCorps, this award is the highest level of the President’s Volunteer Service Award, a national program celebrating citizens who serve their communities with dedication, according to a news release. The award “for [his] lifelong commitment to building a stronger nation through volunteer service” was presented to Williams at his swearing-in ceremony for the Burke County Sheriff’s Office.
Newly-elected Democratic Georgia State Rep., District 126, Dr. L.C. Myles, and wife, Ambassador to the State of Georgia, Dr. Sharron Brown, surprised Williams with the announcement. Brown read aloud a congratulatory letter which displays President Joseph R. Biden’s signature, and presented to Williams a framed certificate, also with the president’s signature, and a medal, the news release said.
“This high honor represents my unwavering dedication to our community. The countless hours of service in Burke County reflect not only our commitment to justice but also my deep love for the people we serve,” said Williams. “This prestigious award from the Office of the President is a testament to the profound impact we have made as a team, inspiring us all to give back and uplift those around us.”
Williams’s law enforcement career spans over three decades, the last eight years as Burke County’ sheriff. Having served at least 4,000 documented volunteer service hours over his lifetime, a requirement for the award, he begins a third term in January. Bestowed by the President of the United States, in collaboration with organizations like AmeriCorps, this award was established in 2002 by the executive order of President George. W. Bush to honor volunteers who give thousands of hours per year to helping others, according to its website.
Augusta Good News is an award-winning member of the Georgia Press Association. Sign up for our weekly newsletter here.
