Leadership training, recognition of outstanding service, and the election of the Executive Board brought South Carolina Fraternal Order of Police members together in Myrtle Beach October 8–10. Hosted by Coastal Carolina Lodge #12 at the North Shore Oceanfront Resort & Conference Center, the three-day gathering gave members time to develop their leadership skills, review the organization’s progress, and strengthen relationships across local lodges.
The gathering began Thursday with leadership training, followed by the biennial conference on Friday and Saturday. Throughout both events, the focus remained on preparing lodge leaders to serve their members and advancing the interests of active and retired law enforcement officers.
Preparing Lodge Leaders
Thursday’s training addressed the responsibilities that come with leading an FOP lodge. Sessions covered the organization’s purpose and recruitment, fiduciary responsibilities, Robert’s Rules of Order, Special Olympics, social media, legal defense, the legislative process, and chaplaincy.
Instruction came from John Blackmon, Jason Fernandes, Terry Gainey, Chuck Canterbury, Mike Peek, KC Canterbury, and Dale Jones. Their sessions connected organizational knowledge with the practical responsibilities lodge officers carry, from protecting lodge resources to communicating with members and understanding how legislative advocacy works.
Afternoon workshops provided focused instruction for presidents, secretaries, and treasurers. Blackmon and Fernandes led the presidents’ workshop, addressing leadership, effective boards, conflict resolution, delegation, and lodge goals. David McClure and Peek worked with secretaries on minutes, registration, and records. Chris Hudson and Jones guided treasurers through recordkeeping, financial controls, budgeting, reporting, and oversight of fundraising and charitable funds.
The training gave leaders an opportunity to ask questions, exchange ideas, and examine how their lodges can better serve members.
Progress and Partnership
Friday’s conference opened with prayer and the presentation of colors by the Horry County Sheriff’s Office Honor Guard. Myrtle Beach Police Chief Frederick Chambers, Horry County Police Chief Kris Leonhardt, and Horry County Sheriff Phillip Thompson welcomed attendees.
Solicitor David Stumbo and Congressman Russell Fry, both endorsed by the South Carolina Fraternal Order of Police in their respective races, addressed the membership. Senator Mike Reichenbach delivered the keynote address, and National Secretary Jimmy Holderfield joined members during the conference.
In his opening remarks, President John Blackmon highlighted 20% membership growth over the past two years and challenged members to continue improving how the organization recruits, advocates, raises funds, and prepares future leaders. That growth reflects progress while reinforcing the need to support local lodges as membership expands.
Officer, committee, and lodge reports provided an overview of work across the organization, including legislative advocacy, legal defense, membership, memorial efforts, Special Olympics, and fundraising.
Honoring Service
Representative Neal Collins received the 2026 Legislator of the Year Award for his partnership with law enforcement, particularly his work advancing stronger protections for police animals. His commitment helped bring a longstanding FOP legislative priority to passage.
Jason Fernandes received the Member of the Year Award, and Tri-County Lodge #3 received the Lodge of the Year Award. Both presentations highlighted service to the organization and the contributions members and local lodges make to its success.
The conference also acknowledged former State Board members and military veterans. A memorial service led by Chaplain Dale Jones provided time to remember those who have died and honor their place in the FOP family.
The Elected Executive Board
Delegates elected the following Executive Board:
- President: John Blackmon
- Vice President: Jason Fernandes
- Secretary: David McClure
- Treasurer: Chris Hudson
- Second Vice President: Gary Zimmer
- Sergeant at Arms: Mike Peek
- Chaplain: Dale Jones
- National Trustee: KC Canterbury
National Secretary Jimmy Holderfield installed the officers. The South Carolina Fraternal Order of Police thanks Terry Gainey for his service as National Trustee. Gainey remains on the Board as Immediate Past President, continuing to contribute his experience and leadership.
Fellowship and Continued Work
Beyond the classroom and conference floor, Coastal Carolina Lodge #12 hosted hospitality gatherings that gave members and their families time to reconnect and build friendships. Those conversations strengthened relationships among people who serve in different communities but share the responsibilities of lodge leadership and support for law enforcement.
The South Carolina Fraternal Order of Police thanks Coastal Carolina Lodge #12, the instructors, the Horry County Sheriff’s Office Honor Guard, and supporting partners Cross Country Mortgage, Optavise, and Palmetto State Armory for helping make the events possible.
Members returned to their lodges with practical instruction, a newly elected Executive Board, and a shared responsibility to carry the work forward. Continued progress will depend on that work in each lodge: supporting members, developing leaders, growing membership, and advocating for those who carried the badge yesterday, carry it today, and will carry it tomorrow.
