On Friday, at the Statehouse grounds, we gathered for the 19th Annual South Carolina Law Enforcement Memorial, an event dedicated to honoring law enforcement officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their communities. Each year, this ceremony offers a moment of reflection, respect, and remembrance for the brave men and women who placed their duty above all else.
The ceremony began with a heartfelt welcome from South Carolina Fraternal Order of Police President John Blackmon. In his address, President Blackmon spoke to the importance of honoring our fallen heroes and supporting those who continue to serve. His words reminded those in attendance of the bond shared within the law enforcement community and the duty we bear to stand by our officers and their families.
Following the welcome, SCFOP Chaplain Dale Jones delivered the invocation, and the Richland County Sheriff’s Honor Guard presented the colors. Richland County Sheriff’s Deputy Brianna Melton gave a moving performance of the National Anthem, setting a reflective tone for the event.
This year, three officers who lost their lives in 2023 were added to the monument:
- Deputy Jacob Eric Salrin, Richland County Sheriff’s Department
- Police Officer Matthew Logan Hare, Easley Police Department
- Lieutenant Michael Charles Wood, Newberry Police Department
Additionally, six historical figures whose sacrifices were recently uncovered were honored with their names added to the monument:
- Deputy John Henry Williams III, Barnwell County Sheriff’s Office
- Agent Thomas L. Brayton, U.S. Treasury
- Constable Charles Manley Gregory, South Carolina Governor’s Officers
- Constable J.C. Holstein, South Carolina State Constable
- Constable Joseph Lattimore, South Carolina State Dispensary Commission
- Town Marshal James Cook, Hamburg
A particularly moving moment in the ceremony came when SCFOP National Trustee Terry Gainey spoke on the significance of the number 22. This number holds profound meaning for both the military and law enforcement communities: in the military, it signifies the estimated 22 veterans who take their lives each day; in law enforcement, it represents the sobering fact that an officer is shot every 22 hours in the United States. Trustee Gainey’s words underscored the mental and physical toll of service, reminding us all of the sacrifices made by those who protect us.
The program continued with Deputy Melton performing God Bless America before attendees held a candlelight vigil to reflect on the courage and dedication of our fallen officers. A Roll Call of Heroes was conducted by Mike Whitfield of Carolina Concerns of Police Survivors, honoring each name added to the monument, and the ceremony concluded with a benediction by Chaplain Jones.
Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott served as the Keynote Speaker, delivering an inspiring address that reflected on the resilience and legacy of these officers. Sheriff Lott’s words resonated with everyone present, reminding us of the strength in unity and the enduring commitment to support one another.
This memorial ceremony holds deep meaning for families, colleagues, and supporters. Each name added to the monument enshrines a legacy of service and sacrifice, ensuring these officers are remembered and honored. The South Carolina Fraternal Order of Police remains dedicated to advocating for law enforcement officers and ensuring that these sacrifices are never forgotten.
As we look forward, we are reminded of our responsibility to honor those who have fallen by standing beside those who continue to serve. The SCFOP is steadfast in its mission to support, defend, and remember those who protect our communities.
