Officer Lucas retires
"Dankie Hek Makhosi." This was the last call made by now-retiring correctional officer Abbey Lucas (60), better known as Oom Lu.
His retirement came in effect on 31 June after 38 years of service.
Lucas is fondly known by local community members. He joined the then Department of Prisons on 13 April 1982. He was first stationed at St Alban's correctional centre in Port Elizabeth, where he worked at the agriculture section and later at the religious care services of the institution.
In 1987, he was transferred to his home town Graaff-Reinet after he had married his childhood sweetheart, Anne Roman. The couple has three sons.
Lucas's determination and will to succeed was demonstrated with his involvement in recreational activities, especially rugby during his career as a correctional officer during. He played with well-known community leaders, which include Willie Damons, Doug Louw and Gas Malan.
He also excelled academically and studied Correctional Administration through Unisa. During 2001, he was appointed as section head of B Section. Whilst serving as section head he also acted as relief head on the centre for unlocking and lock-up in the institution in the absence of management.
"It is important to work hard and be honest so that you positively influence each other to ensure you deliver on the mandate that is required of each one," he said.
Lucas has left footprints for many young men and women, despite the hardships and challenges of those years. According to a longtime colleague and friend, Ernest Jooste, Lucas was exemplary to all as he was always willing to share information and advise his colleagues.
The veteran was sent off with a formal gala evening held strictly in compliance with the regulations of the Disaster Management Act, due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Officials of the calibre of Lucas are needed in society and should be regarded as the epitome of perseverance and humbleness.
- Written by Wilber Zweni, a correctional officer.