United States Army National Guard Sergeant William Brooks grew up in Southaven, Mississippi to a close-knit family where he developed a deep appreciation for friendship, community, and the values of service and resilience. His childhood love for playing sports shaped his sense of teamwork, but it was his unwavering desire to push himself further that led him to enlist in the Mississippi National Guard in 1999 as a Military Policeman—while still in high school. Driven by a profound sense of duty and self-improvement, Brooks found a second family in the military, a bond that would become a defining force in his life.
When called to active duty in 2004 during Operation Iraqi Freedom, Brooks served courageously with the 155th Brigade Combat Team. His life changed forever on March 29, 2005, when his armored vehicle struck a pressure plate improvised explosive device near Baghdad. At just 23 years old, Brooks lost both legs above the knee and sustained multiple broken bones, fractures, and injuries—but his spirit remained strong.
During his recovery at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Brooks found a new purpose beyond the battlefield. Mississippi Congressman Gene Taylor recognized his potential and offered him an opportunity to serve in a different capacity. While Brooks had earned numerous military honors, including a Purple Heart, his proudest moment as a soldier came after his injury. In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, he worked tirelessly in Congressman Taylor’s office, assisting fellow Mississippians in their time of greatest need. For Brooks, the ability to help his community brought a renewed sense of usefulness and fulfillment, earning him the Humanitarian Service Medal—an award he holds closest to his heart. His belief is simple yet profound: No matter your circumstances, you can always make a difference.
Inspired by his deep-rooted commitment to service, Brooks turned to public leadership, winning election to the Board of Aldermen in 2009 and subsequently serving three terms. He proved that resilience and determination can open unexpected doors. Although he had originally envisioned a career in law enforcement, his path shifted, leading him to champion veterans’ issues as a former staff member for Congressman Trent Kelly.
Today, Brooks enjoys traveling, spending cherished moments with friends and family, lifting weights, and engaging in outdoor activities—all reminders that his injuries do not define him; they are merely part of his larger, ever-evolving story. The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has provided Brooks with a mortgage-free smart home tailored to his needs—a life-changing gift that allows him to continue pushing forward with confidence and independence.
United States Army National Guard Sergeant William Brooks’ journey is a testament to resilience, service, and the unwavering belief that adversity can shape, but never limit, the human spirit.
The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has provided United States Army National Guard Sergeant William Brooks with a mortgage-free smart home through the Smart Home Program.