A History Rooted in Purpose
The South Carolina Fraternal Order of Police was born out of necessity, conviction, and a shared belief that law enforcement officers deserved a unified voice dedicated to professionalism, fairness, and respect. From its earliest days, the organization stood firm on the principle that those sworn to protect the public must also be protected by an organization willing to speak clearly, act responsibly, and advocate without apology.
What began as a small but determined effort in the mid-1970s would grow into the recognized statewide voice for South Carolina’s law enforcement officers.
The Founding Era of the South Carolina State Fraternal Order of Police
May 1976
The South Carolina State Fraternal Order of Police was not created by chance or convenience. It was formed deliberately by officers who recognized that without a unified, professional voice, the issues facing law enforcement across the state would continue to be addressed inconsistently and without lasting reform.
By the mid-1970s, officers throughout South Carolina were facing low pay, uneven benefits, limited job protections, and minimal input into policies that directly affected their safety and livelihoods. While local Fraternal Order of Police lodges had begun to emerge, it became increasingly clear that local efforts alone were insufficient to address statewide challenges. What was needed was coordination, leadership, and a shared vision.
The West Columbia Mini-Convention
In early May 1976, representatives from multiple South Carolina FOP lodges gathered for a pivotal organizing meeting at the Ramada Inn in West Columbia. Contemporary reporting described the gathering as a mini-convention, bringing together officers from different jurisdictions to discuss the formation of a unified State Lodge, establish leadership, and define the organization’s purpose and structure.
This meeting marked the first time South Carolina officers formally convened with the express intent of creating a statewide Fraternal Order of Police. The choice of a centrally located venue underscored both the seriousness of the effort and the commitment to inclusivity across regions. The discussions held at the Ramada Inn were not abstract or theoretical; they focused squarely on compensation, working conditions, professional standards, and the need for a responsible statewide advocate for law enforcement.
Formal Establishment of the State Lodge
Within days of the West Columbia mini-convention, the South Carolina State Fraternal Order of Police was formally established on May 6, 1976. The timing was no coincidence. The groundwork laid at the mini-convention provided the structure, leadership, and shared understanding necessary to move from discussion to action.
Guy Osborne was elected as the first State President, assuming leadership during a critical and formative period. His early role was central to building legitimacy for the new organization, encouraging lodge participation, and clearly defining the State FOP’s identity.
From the outset, the South Carolina FOP distinguished itself from traditional labor unions. Public statements and contemporaneous news coverage emphasized that the organization did not advocate strikes or collective bargaining. Instead, it defined itself as a professional, fraternal association dedicated to ethical standards, improved working conditions, and responsible advocacy. This distinction became foundational to the organization’s credibility with the public, policymakers, and law enforcement leadership.
The First Lodges
The State Lodge was built on the strength of its earliest local lodges, each of which played a critical role in establishing momentum and legitimacy.
- Lancaster Lodge
The first Fraternal Order of Police lodge in South Carolina was formed in Lancaster, setting the precedent for officer-led organization grounded in professionalism and mutual support. - Lexington Lodge
The formation of the Lexington Lodge soon followed, signaling that the movement was not isolated or regional but capable of expanding across jurisdictions. - Charleston Lodge
The establishment of the Charleston Lodge gave the organization a foothold in one of South Carolina’s most historically significant and complex law enforcement environments.
Together, these early lodges provided the foundation for a unified State Lodge committed to advocating for officers while maintaining professional integrity and public trust.
A Lasting Foundation
The decisions made during the founding era, particularly those taken at the West Columbia mini-convention and in the days immediately following, shaped the character of the South Carolina Fraternal Order of Police. The emphasis on professionalism over militancy, advocacy over confrontation, and unity over fragmentation established principles that continue to guide the organization today.
The South Carolina State FOP was built by officers who understood that lasting change required organization, discipline, and a clear sense of purpose. That understanding remains central to the organization’s mission decades later.
Late 1976 to 1979: Expansion and Identity
Following its establishment, the South Carolina FOP experienced rapid growth. New lodges formed across the state as officers recognized the value of disciplined, professional advocacy.
During this period, lodges engaged local governments on issues of compensation, staffing, equipment, and officer retention. Contemporary reporting consistently reflected that officers sought fairness and professional respect rather than confrontation. The organization repeatedly clarified that it was not a labor union, reinforcing its commitment to ethical advocacy and constructive dialogue.
Community engagement, charitable activities, and public service became integral to the organization’s identity, strengthening public trust and reinforcing the FOP’s role as both an advocate and a partner within the communities officers served.
The 1980s and Early 1990s: Maturation and Stability
As the organization entered the 1980s, the South Carolina FOP transitioned into a period of institutional maturity. Statewide coordination improved, leadership structures strengthened, and the State Lodge became a stable, respected entity.
Annual meetings and improved communication allowed lodges to align priorities and share challenges. The State Lodge increasingly monitored legislation affecting law enforcement officers and educated members on policy impacts, laying the groundwork for expanded legislative advocacy in later years.
Leadership of the South Carolina Fraternal Order of Police
State Presidents
- Guy Osborne (1976)
- Gilbert Smith (1976–1986)
- Rick Shutt (1986–1988)
- Kevin McGowan (1988–1990)
- Chuck Canterbury (1990–1998)
- Jerry Wright (1998–2009)
- Jimmy Mixson (2009–2012; 2016–2018)
- Bob Carr (2012–2016)
- Terry Gainey (2018–2024)
- John Blackmon (2024–Present)
National Trustees
- James Longo (1976–1981)
- Jerry Wright (1981–2001; 2009–2023)
- Darrell Lewis (2001–2009)
- Terry Gainey (2023–Present)
National Leadership and Legacy
South Carolina’s influence within the Fraternal Order of Police extends beyond state lines. That influence is most clearly reflected in the leadership of Chuck Canterbury.
Following his service as State President, Canterbury rose through the ranks of the National Fraternal Order of Police and served as National President from 2002 to 2019, becoming the second longest-serving National President in the history of the Fraternal Order of Police. His tenure stands as one of South Carolina’s most significant contributions to the national organization and reflects the strength of the foundation established by South Carolina officers beginning in 1976.
Continuity and the Present Day
The South Carolina Fraternal Order of Police today reflects the principles established at its founding: professionalism, unity, ethical advocacy, and service. Each generation of leadership has built upon the work of those who came before, preserving the organization’s mission while adapting to new challenges.
From the mini-convention in West Columbia to statewide and national leadership, the South Carolina FOP remains committed to advocating for those who serve and protecting the integrity of the profession.
