Formation of the First Lodges
The history of the South Carolina Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) mirrors the experiences of law enforcement officers nationwide when they decided to unite. In the late 1970s, officers faced challenges such as low wages, poor working conditions, and a lack of job protection. The first active lodge, Lexington County Lodge #2, comprised deputies from the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department. Seeking national support, they found the FOP to be the ideal organization representing police officers. In 1976, 75 deputies became charter members.
Expansion and Collaboration
Around the same time, officers from the Charleston County Police Department established the Charleston County Lodge #3, forming a network of shared information between the lodges. In 1977, officers from Anderson, Oconee, and Pickens counties founded the Tri-County Lodge #4. Notably, the number #1 was unclaimed until 1995 when Lexington County Lodge #2 became Midlands Lodge #1.
Formation of the State Lodge
In April 1977, representatives from the three lodges gathered in West Columbia, South Carolina, to establish the state lodge. National President Pat Stark chartered the state lodge, and the first state officers were elected: State President Guy Osborne, Vice President Jim Cleveland, Secretary William Graham, Treasurer Gilbert Smith, and National Trustee James Longo. Gilbert Smith, despite being in a wheelchair due to a line-of-duty disability, became a prominent figure on the national scene.
Early Years and National Recognition
South Carolina delegates attended the 1977 National Conference in Rhode Island, marking the state’s integration into the FOP with around 70,000 members nationwide. Over the years, the FOP in South Carolina faced changes in leadership and lodge structures. The state lodge gained respect by challenging the State Revenue Department and winning a case regarding law enforcement officers’ tax deductions. The FOP also played a crucial role in changing state retirement plans and achieving legislative victories, including a dedicated vehicle license tag and a memorial on the state house grounds for fallen officers.
Commitment to Members
Despite limitations in size and population, the South Carolina FOP has maintained an aggressive stance in protecting its members and advocating for better benefits. The commitment to legislative improvements for law enforcement professionals remains unwavering.
Leadership Through the Years
The South Carolina FOP has seen dedicated leaders at the helm, including past State Presidents:
- Guy Osborne (1977)
- Gilbert Smith (1977-1986)
- 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)
Continued National Leadership
In 2002, National Vice President Chuck Canterbury assumed the role of National President, later elected in 2003, continuing to serve in that position until 2019.
The South Carolina Fraternal Order of Police remains steadfast in its mission to protect and advocate for law enforcement officers, embodying the spirit of unity and commitment since its establishment in 1977.
