winter 2009 sc trooper magazine

1 South Carolina Trooper

Troopers Recognized for Troopers Recognized for Outstanding Service Outstanding Service

South CarolinaSouth CarolinaTROOPTROOPERER

Volume 22, Number 3 Winter 2009Volume 22, Number 3 Winter 2009www.sctroopers.orgwww.sctroopers.org

Lance Corporal Jonathan S. NashLance Corporal Jonathan S. NashJune 1, 1968 - September 19, 2009June 1, 1968 - September 19, 2009


David M. Latimer IIIExecutive Director

[email protected]

Johnny R. CribbPresident

[email protected]

Clint FaireyVice President

[email protected]

Gerald D. RothellSecretary

[email protected]

D.J. Bron, Jr. Treasurer

[email protected]

SCTA Board of DirectorsSCTA Board of Directors

Billy K. Floyd, Jr.Troop One

[email protected]

W.C. West Troop Two

[email protected]

DC MayTroop Three

[email protected]

Bradford W. GardnerTroop Four

[email protected]

Bradley G. DewittTroop Five

[email protected]

Chris CooperTroop 6

[email protected]

M.D. TomsonTroop 7

[email protected]

Judd JonesHeadquarters

[email protected]

Harold R. Deese (RET)Retirees Representative

[email protected]

CHANGE OF ADDRESS FORMIf you are moving, or have moved, please let us know! Simply fi ll out the information below and mail it to: SCTA Offi ce, 4961 Broad River Road, Columbia, SC 29212 or you may fi ll out an online address change at www.sctroopers.org.

RANK: ____________ TROOP:______ POST:______

NAME:__________________________________________

ADDRESS:________________________________________

CITY/STATEZIP:___________________________________

MESSAGE TO OUR ADVERTISERS: As this publication is fi nanced by monies received from advertisements, we express our sincere appreciation for your support. We strive to make this a high quality publication that will provide the best possible exposure for our advertisers. We encourage our members and all our readers to patronize those businesses who make this publication possible.

YOUR COMMENTS, PLEASE: Comments, criticisms, or suggestions for the magazine are always welcome! This is your magazine, and we need your ideas for articles in upcoming issues. Send news about your county and troop events, stories, awards, etc. Good quality photos are accepted. Please direct your correspondence to SCTA Offi ce, ATTN: Editor, 4961 Broad River Road, Columbia, SC 29212 or via e-mail to [email protected].

ABOUT THE PUBLISHER: The SCTA is proud to publish the South Carolina Trooper magazine. Graphics by Rachel E. Cambre. Printing by R.L. Bryan. For advertising questions, please call (800) 633-2236, ext. 11.


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F E AT UF E AT U R ER E S :S :14 Troopers recognized by SC Fire Association By Anna Brown

16 Lt. Strickland Retires from SCHP 18 Making the Right Choices Before Retirement By Jim Shultz

20 Avoid Compassion Fatigue By Scot Allgood, PhD

24 SCTA Membership Benefi ts 27 In Memory of Jonathan S. Nash

28 SC Operation Lifesaver Celebrates 30 Years By Janice Cowen

35 Proposed License Plate for Retired Troopers

D E PA RTD E PA RT M E N T SM E N T S4 Letters to the Editor

5 Executive Director

6 Director

7 Colonel

9 Chaplain

11 In Memoriam

12 Legal Assistance

23 Troopers on the Move

40 News Briefs

South Carolina Troopers Association4961 Broad River Road ● Columbia, SC 29212

www.sctroopers.org ● [email protected]


Dear SCTA.....Letters to the Editor

Dear SCTA Staff, Thanks so much for such a wonderful picnic weekend. I

believe everyone had as much fun as we did. The weekend was very well organized, and we loved the gift we won. I believe the weekend was more relaxing than our week-long vacation. Thanks Again,The Rothells

Dear SCTA, Thank you for choosing Myrtle Waves for your group

outing. I certainly hope we met your expectations in all areas. I certainly enjoyed meeting you and some of the other fi ne folks who joined along.

I look forward to working with you again.Warmly, Carol Engel

Dear SCTA, Please relay my thanks to the (SCHP) Honor Guard for

their excellent and most heartfelt performance at the services for my husband, Willie Allen Mack, Jr., on June 29, 2009, in Orangeburg at Memorial Park.

The Honor Guard did an outstanding job. They were so precise in every move they made. Each move represented the troopers of the state of South Carolina.

My family and friends were proud, honored and impressed with their performance.

I was greatly honored when they presented the fl ag to me. I will cherish memories of the their presence and the fl ag.

My husband always had a passion for the Highway Patrol and the Troopers.

The Highway Patrol and troopers enriched my husband’s life beyond all measure.

Keep safe during the holiday season, and blessings to all as we remember our Savior’s birth.Sincerely, Leona Mack

Dear SCTATo all, I would like to thank you for everything. Daddy (CPT

D.W. Williams, RET) clearly loved you all. Thank you all for your prayers and caring. Your kindness will never be forgotten.Sincerely, The Sligh Family

Dear SCTA, We mourn over the loss of Trooper Jonathan Nash, as does

all law enforcement. Please accept our sincere condolences.May you fi nd strength and comfort through the support of

many who care.Sincerely, Brian Peterson, PresidentState Troopers Association of Nebraska

Dear SCTA, On behalf of the members of the California Highway Patrol

and the Martinez family, I would like to convey my sincere appreciation for your acknowledgement to the untimely death of Offi cer Jarrod Martinez.

While we mourn the death of one of our own, it is comforting to know that our extended law enforcement family is here to support us in our time of need.

Thank you for keeping the Martinez family in your thoughts. We will ensure that your correspondence is forwarded to them.Sincerely, J.A. FarrowCommissioner, California Highway Patrol

Dear SCTA, The Aiken County Clerk of Courts’ Offi ce would like to thank

you for your part in making our Fall Conference a big success.All the prizes that were donated were a big hit. The different

Clerks’ offi ces from around the state commented they were some of the best they had ever seen.

We could not have done it without you. Thank you for your generosity.Sincerely,

Liz Godard & Staff

Do you have college aged children?Are you continuing your education?

Scholarship Applications for 2010 are now available online by visitingwww.sctrooopers.org,p g, or by sending an e-mail to

[email protected] p g

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“SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION” in the subject line. Scholarships are available top gp g y gy g ffi p gffi p g

all SCTA Members in gggggood standinggggg,, their spppppouses,, and depppppendents offfff SCTA Members..j pj p


Message from the Executive DirectorWith the beginning of a new year, in fact a new decade, change is upon

us. Most of us have never seen an economic recession like the one we are currently weathering, and hopefully we never will again. However, the upside is that very often circumstances like ours present opportunities and sometimes those opportunities allow for growth and new goals. My hope is that 2010 will be one of those times where we eventually come out ahead of where we anticipated. As I travel the state and meet various leaders within the business and government sectors, I am constantly reminded of the narrow margin that separates successful organizations and ones that are unable to sustain themselves. The SCTA, through the guidance of its Board of Directors, has been able to persevere through some very challenging times.

As the SCTA gears up for a new legislative session, our focus will be to ensure that our health insurance continues to be fully funded, that our vehicle fleet is maintained, that our personnel are not negatively impacted by furloughs or layoffs, and lastly that we can increase our staffing to critical areas within our State. I think that what our troopers have done this year, by working to reduce fatalities through increasing the number of DUI arrest and seatbelt tickets, is justify the need to sustain the Highway Patrol’s funding. I will be vigilant in communicating the value and importance of our troopers to the General Assembly during the upcoming session. It is important that our lawmakers understand that there is a direct correlation between the Highway Patrol’s enforcement efforts and public safety.

In closing, I wanted to send a special thanks to Rachel Cambre for her loyal and dedicated service to the SCTA for over 10 years and to wish her the best of luck in her new position at The State Accident Fund. Additionally, I would ask that each one of you join me in congratulating Diane Rollison who has been promoted to Director of Operations and will assume Rachel’s duties moving forward.

May God continue to bless you, your families, and the Association in the New Year.

▲▲▲

David M. Latimer III

“I will be vigilant in

communicating the value

and importance of our

troopers to the General

Assembly during the

upcoming session.”


Message from the Director As I pen this message the holiday season is fast approaching and once again the time for

refl ection is upon us. With the exception of the economic crisis and our budget diffi culties I believe we have had a hugely successful year.

I want to take this moment to highlight some of your 2009 (to-date) successes. You made 276,485 vehicle stops; you worked 67,737 collisions; you issued 152,965 seatbelt citations and 196,065 speeding citations; and with the added assistance of the new DUI Enforcement Team, 12,544 individuals were charged with DUI. This fi gure represents 2,339 more than last year – an increase of 18.6%. How many lives were spared by taking an additional 2,339 drunk drivers off the roads (please take a moment to ponder this). Even more remarkable is the fact that you accomplished this with 116 less troopers than the previous year. Our ACE Team statistics are equally impressive. From January to October 2009 the ACE Team has worked 35,565 cases; issued 39,136 warnings; made 60 fugitive arrests; recovered 9 stolen vehicles; searched 758 vehicles; seized almost $800,000 in currency. The total value of seizures is estimated to be around $3,465,755.00 (total monetary impact of $4,264,400.00).

These statistics don’t refl ect all you do, but there is no doubt these numbers are refl ective of the hard work and commitment you are making in the performance of your jobs. The Department of Public Safety stands proud and I personally salute you.

It should also be noted that with the coordinated efforts of both state and local law enforcement agencies, even more progress is being made against impaired driving. The Law Enforcement DUI Challenge efforts are paying off as well. In 2008 (December 2007-Septenber 2008), the Law Enforcement DUI Challenge netted 16,459 DUI arrests. The 2009 Challenge (same time period) totals were 21,673 DUI arrests – a 31.6% increase over 2008. Again, ponder how many lives are being saved.

As we enjoy these good reports, I want you to know that not a day goes by that I am not keenly aware and reminded of the dangers you face. I receive a daily news summary report which refl ects statewide law enforcement incidents, accidents, fatalities, shootings, and the ever increasing number of law enforcement offi cer shootings across our nation. These reports draw my attention to the continuous dangers and demands placed upon you. But this is our duty. Without question, yours is a tough job and a dangerous one. As you protect our citizens, I promise to do all I can to protect you.

You have heard me say, repeatedly, I am committed to you and the restoration of honor and integrity at the DPS. In this regard, one of my earliest priorities was to develop and issue a “Code of Ethics”. We have done this. On the surface this may appear to you as just another policy, but I believe it provides you a stable, permanent guide to acceptable and unacceptable conduct. If your personal integrity, reputation and career as a law enforcement offi cer is important to you, then the greatest advice I can give is that you keep this document close at hand. Read it often. Keep yourself in check so that questionable situations have no room to manifest themselves and if ever in doubt…ask. We have placed much focus on rebuilding the image and public trust of the Highway Patrol. I am very pleased to share with you that our serious complaints are down, and I hope they stay that way.

Let me take a brief moment to announce the newest member of our Administrative staff, Mr. Benjamin Thomas. Mr. Thomas will serve as Chief, Offi ce of Professional Responsibility and I hope you will take the time to introduce yourselves when the occasion presents itself. Mr. Thomas has over 38 years of extensive law enforcement experience and brings a wealth of qualifi cations, knowledge and expertise to this position and the Department. He will oversee internal investigations for all DPS divisions and also advise me on emergency management, and homeland security matters.

In 2010, I pledge to maintain the course of having us recognized as an exemplary law enforcement agency. We are preparing for renewal of our national accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation of Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA). Although this process is both lengthy and exhaustive, it provides a higher degree of accountability. The Department of Public Safety was fi rst accredited by the Commission in 1998. The CALEA sets forth 463 standards dealing with areas such as law enforcement operations, traffi c law enforcement, relationships with other agencies, court-related services, organization, management and administrations. (continued on page 8)

“In 2010, I pledge to

maintain the course of

having us recognized

as an exemplary law

enforcement agency. ”

Mark Keel


Message from the ColonelAs the colonel of the South Carolina Highway Patrol, the safety of the men and women

under my command is never far from my mind. When I accepted this job, I knew there was the possibility of losing a trooper in the line of duty.

Sadly, the Highway Patrol has suffered the loss of two active duty troopers since May. Trooper First Class Andrew “Andy” D. McInville died in a house fi re in May. And, in September, L/Cpl. John Nash died in a line-of-duty motor vehicle collision. Their deaths have reminded me of the volatile nature of the law enforcement fi eld and the importance of having a good network of friends and co-workers during such tragic times.

While death is not an easy subject to discuss, the untimely deaths of these two men remind me that this is a subject that necessitates open discussion and planning. As we approach the season of giving, I believe one of the best gifts we can give our families is security. That includes taking care of them in this life and planning for their needs in the event of our death.

Law enforcement offi cers and fi rst responders are certainly at higher risk for premature death from an incident on the job. In the event that a tragedy does occur, it is vitally important that a trooper has made prior decisions about next of kin, power of attorney, benefi ciaries as well as having prepared and left a detailed and updated will. This removes much of the confusion and disagreement that can surface after a law enforcement offi cer’s death.

Ms. Beverly Coates, president of South Carolina Concerns of Police Survivors (COPS), has been working with us to set up a program to help troopers get a will prepared at no charge at each Troop offi ce. The South Carolina Bar Association prepares simple wills at no cost to law enforcement offi cers.

Over the years, Ms. Coates, who lost her son Cpl. Mark Coates in a line-of-duty incident in 1992, has seen many scenarios with law enforcement where planning would have saved a great deal of heartache and frustration for all involved. We will have more information coming to you soon regarding this service.

When looking into this program, I was surprised to learn that approximately 80 to 90 percent of fi rst responders do not have even a simple will. Given the danger you – as troopers -- face each day, this is a disturbing statistic. I am encouraging those of you who may need help with estate planning to seriously consider how important it would be to your family – especially if you have dependents – that you have taken these important steps.

On a related note, I am pleased to announce that we have begun a campaign to raise funds for a South Carolina Highway Patrol Memorial Wall. Sal and Lois Rao, whose son, Michael, was killed in the line of duty in 2002, are assisting me with this effort.

In the coming months, a number of fund-raising activities will be held to secure the funding for the purchase of this granite memorial, which will be approximately $15,000-$20,000.

We are currently working to fi nd an appropriate place for the monument that will allow families to visit, and where it is publicly displayed for others to honor and remember our fallen heroes. Funds raised through the recent Director’s Cup and the Troop Six golf tournaments were donated to help offset the costs of the memorial So far, about $4,700 has been raised. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Assistance Program will be handling donations for the memorial fund. I encourage you to get involved in helping make this monument a reality for the families of our troopers killed in the line of duty. The Memorial Wall is one way for us to show families that we continue to hold our fallen troopers close to our hearts.

A few additional points of interest:DUI Enforcement:• I want to thank troopers for the outstanding job they have done in recent months -- on DUI enforcement especially. We have seen about a 14% reduction in DUI fatal collisions this year, and DUI arrests are up nearly 2,400 over the same period last year. The new DUI Teams are responsible for nearly 1,000 of those arrests since they began working in July. Victims Unit:• We are continuing to seek ways to better serve victims of DUI and other collisions. We have hired a new victim advocate, Emma Lilley, who began work on November 17. Ms. Lilley has a strong social work background and is a highly skilled professional. I am looking forward to introducing her to our command staff and troopers. (continued on page 8)

“I believe, working together,

we can continue to make many

positive strides in reducing

fatalities and lowering DUI

collisions.”

F.K. Lancaster, Jr.


Director’s Message, continued from page 7Compliance with applicable standards provides us the opportunity to demonstrate that quality and effective law enforcement services are being delivered to the public.

I am pleased to share that the Highway Patrol was recently awarded a grant through the U.S. Offi ce of Justice Programs. The funds are being used to enhance the Highway Patrol’s in-the-fi eld Taser program. Our plans are to purchase 300 Tasers with these funds – which will bring the total number of troopers with Tasers to 600.

No one knows if South Carolina’s economic problems will remain or worsen into next year, however, you can be assured that we are working very diligently to monitor our resources. Stimulus funds are expected to help us graduate a class of 55 to 60 new troopers in May, and should also assist us in sustaining our current level of operation. Due to the stimulus monies, we should be okay for the current FY 09/10 budget year. We will, however, need to remain cognizant of the fact that once the stimulus monies are gone we may be faced with a budget defi cit if the state’s economy has not improved.

On the legislative agenda we anticipate there may be much attention generated concerning the use of electronic devices while driving, particularly text messaging. The state of South Carolina currently does not have legislation in place which prohibits the use of cell phones while driving.

As we go forward I will be doing everything within my power to look out for you. I will continue to forge deep relationships with state and local law enforcement agencies, state and federal government, and the South Carolina General Assembly.

As you prepare for the new year I leave you with this thought: the accolades may not always be there to reassure you when the days are long, patience is wearing thin, and tempers are short, but never forget that indescribable sense of fulfi llment that comes by the selfl ess service you provide the public. Your sacrifi ces are priceless.

This is an exciting chapter in my law enforcement career and I hope you are able to say the same. If not, we need to talk! I wish you a Merry Christmas, happy holidays, and last but not least, strength and renewal in your spirit. May God bless you and keep you and your family safe.

▲▲▲

Colonel’s Message, continued from page 7We also elected to continue our Families of Highway

Fatalities (FHF) program – a three-year grant program that ended in September. Ms. Faith Turner has been hired again to coordinate that program. Our FHF program has helped many families navigate through the grief process following a motor vehicle fatality. The Victim Advocate and FHF programs will work hand in hand to ensure we are providing the very best services to victims and their families.

Again, I cannot express to you just how much I believe your work and dedication are paying off. You have made this fi rst year on the job a rewarding one, and I look forward to continue serving you as your commander in the coming year. I believe, working together, we can continue to make many positive strides in reducing fatalities and lowering DUI collisions.

I want to wish you all a very enjoyable and relaxing holiday season and once again extend my most sincere appreciation to you for the diffi cult job you do each day.

▲▲▲


Message from the Chaplain

“ What lessons will your children never

forget simply because they were lessons taught to them by their mom or their

dad?”

As the father of three little girls my concerns about raising them properly and “in the nurture and admonition of the Lord” are never very far from my mind. Whether we have children, grandchildren, nieces/nephews or the kids in the neighborhood, every adult wonders at some point about the lessons he/she is passing on to the next generation.

When I plan a funeral with a family I always ask the family to help me write my Prayer of Thanksgiving. Though I may know the deceased very well as a pastor, I do not know them like their family knows them. I ask the family to tell me what specific things they are thankful for in the life of their loved one. Some will say they are thankful for their work ethic or their commitment to family or their patriotism. Others will be very specific and say they are thankful that they taught us how to hunt or fish or type or fix a car. The question for us becomes: “What will your children and those who love you say they are thankful for in your life? What lessons will your children never forget simply because they were lessons taught to them by their mom or their dad?”

At this point in my life, these are some of the lessons I want to pass on to my children. (Based on Proverbs 3:1-12 – My Dad’s Favorite Verses):

“My child do not forget my teaching, but let your heart keep my 1. commandments.” My child do not forget that you are a person of faith, and the Bible is your rule of faith and life. It is the yardstick which you must hold up to the questions of life. It is your way of identifying what is right and wrong, what is true or false, what is just or unjust, what is healthy or deadly. When asked to make a moral decision, don’t just depend on your own opinion or your own experience or your own capacity to be reasonable. Ask the question, “Can the scriptures add some light to this matter?” My child learn from this holy book and know in your own experience that it is indeed one of God’s great gifts. Through the study of its pages, illuminated by prayer, God has promised to speak to you.“My Child, do not let loyalty or faithfulness forsake you.”2. When I say loyalty, I want you to read this as mercy and kindness to the helpless and mercy and kindness to those who have no resources and no representation before the seats of power. If you learn anything from reading the Bible I want you to watch how Jesus of Nazareth treats the helpless and the hopeless who cross his path. What do I mean by faithfulness? I simply mean reliability. Be reliable in keeping your word.“My Child, trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not rely on your own 3. insights….in all your ways acknowledge him.” When it comes right down to it, your hope is not found in what you can do (though I have confidence you can and will do many things). Your hope is found in what God will do for you because he loves you. You will grow up in a culture which will offer you a multitude of things which will try to fool you into believing that they can complete you. It will not be toys or relationships or education or community standing which will complete you. It is only a trusting relationship with the Living God, where you will find rest for your soul.“My child, do not despise the Lord’s discipline for the Lord reproves those he 4. loves.” If I could protect you from any harm or embarrassment ever coming to you I would do so in an instant. Because I cannot, my prayer for you is that you learn how to cope with the difficulties you will face in this life. In all likelihood you heart will get broken, you will lose what you love and you will experience great disappointment. I challenge you to use your faith as a way to frame your understanding of pain. Through our suffering God often teaches us, deepens our faith and corrects us where we are wrong. (page 10)

Rev. J. Eric SkidmoreChaplain, SCHP

Lessons on Parenting


(Message from the Chaplain, continued from page 9)Your faith tells you that your suffering is not the end of the matter. “Yea though I walk through the valley of Death, I shall fear no evil.” This is the story of your faith.

When all is said and done, I have come to see parenthood as a servant ministry. Our various faith traditions have always understood parenthood as a calling from God, a work given by God and a service to human society. It is a servant ministry carried out as an act of faith. My oldest daughter is now 15. I have become convinced over these last 15 years that my wife and I cannot carry out this servant ministry apart from our faith community. Why? Because it is quite impossible to make good on the vows we have made (wedding vows, baptismal vows, etc.) without the support of other faithful friends and fellow believers who see parenting as one of the essential tasks that God has laid before us. May God bless all our children and my God bless all parents as we seek to raise these children in the nurture and the admonition of the Lord!

In MemoriamIn Memoriam

Jeffrey M. Daniels, who passed away September 10, 2009. Jeffrey M. Daniels, who passed away September 10, 2009.Jonathan Nash, end of watch September 19, 2009.Jonathan Nash, end of watch September 19, 2009.

Douglas W. Williams, who passed away October 3, 2009.Douglas W. Williams, who passed away October 3, 2009.Paul E. Parris, who passed away October 13, 2009.Paul E. Parris, who passed away October 13, 2009.

Clyde T. Stephens, who passed away October 20, 2009.Clyde T. Stephens, who passed away October 20, 2009.Lewis E. Dixon, who passed away November 4, 2009.Lewis E. Dixon, who passed away November 4, 2009.

James C. Pace, SCTA Chaplain Emeritus, who passed away November 9, 2009.James C. Pace, SCTA Chaplain Emeritus, who passed away November 9, 2009.Robert F. Hayes, who passed away November 15, 2009.Robert F. Hayes, who passed away November 15, 2009.Clyde F. Collins, who passed away December 3, 2009.Clyde F. Collins, who passed away December 3, 2009.Guy Ackerman, who passed away January 1, 2010.Guy Ackerman, who passed away January 1, 2010.

Post Critical Incident Seminar

A Three-Day Training for Law Enforcement

Professionals

Used By FBI Since 1985

Sponsored ByThe South Carolina

Law Enforcement Assistance Program

The South Carolina Law Enforcement Assistance Program2501 Heyward Street

Columbia, South Carolina 29205Office: 803-252-2664

Fax: 803-252-2841www.scleap.org

Next PCIS: February 8-10, 2010July 19-21, 2010(Lexington, SC)


2009 J.S. Nash (ACE Team)2009 J.S. Nash (ACE Team)

2008 J.D. Haynes (Orangeburg)2008 J.D. Haynes (Orangeburg)

2005 J.W. Parker (Sumter)2005 J.W. Parker (Sumter)

2002 K.J. Johnson (Berkeley)2002 K.J. Johnson (Berkeley)

2002 M.J. Rao (ACE Team)2002 M.J. Rao (ACE Team)

2000 E.F. Nicholson (Greenville)2000 E.F. Nicholson (Greenville)

2000 D.T. Bailey (Greenville)2000 D.T. Bailey (Greenville)

1998 J. Ham Jr. (Darlington)1998 J. Ham Jr. (Darlington)

1997 F.L. Lingard (Orangeburg)1997 F.L. Lingard (Orangeburg)

1996 R.S. Hewitt (Florence)1996 R.S. Hewitt (Florence)

1995 M.A. Chappell (Clarendon)1995 M.A. Chappell (Clarendon)

1994 R.L. Hester (Anderson)1994 R.L. Hester (Anderson)

1992 M.H. Coates (ACE Team)1992 M.H. Coates (ACE Team)

1992 H.M. Godbold (Kershaw)1992 H.M. Godbold (Kershaw)

1991 D.H. O’Brien (Beaufort)1991 D.H. O’Brien (Beaufort)

1991 M.L. Titus (Bamberg)1991 M.L. Titus (Bamberg)

1989 H.M. Coker Jr. (Fairfield)1989 H.M. Coker Jr. (Fairfield)

1988 G.T. Radford (Dillon)1988 G.T. Radford (Dillon)

1987 R.P. Perry Jr. (Williamsburg)1987 R.P. Perry Jr. (Williamsburg)

1985 B.K. Smalls (Jasper)1985 B.K. Smalls (Jasper)

1983 J.R. Clinton (Chester)1983 J.R. Clinton (Chester)

1981 D.L. Alverson (Orangeburg)1981 D.L. Alverson (Orangeburg)

1979 R.A. Mobley (Florence)1979 R.A. Mobley (Florence)

1979 W.E. Peeples (Colleton)1979 W.E. Peeples (Colleton)

1974 B.W. Strickland (Lexington)1974 B.W. Strickland (Lexington)

1973 F.H. Anthony (Greenville)1973 F.H. Anthony (Greenville)

1972 R.O. Caffey (Orangeburg)1972 R.O. Caffey (Orangeburg)

1970 J.A. Traylor (Sumter)1970 J.A. Traylor (Sumter)

1970 A.A. Thomason (Sumter)1970 A.A. Thomason (Sumter)

1969 R.V. Woods (Beaufort)1969 R.V. Woods (Beaufort)

1966 M.C. Steele (Chesterfield)1966 M.C. Steele (Chesterfield)

1961 J.R. Riddle (Clarendon)1961 J.R. Riddle (Clarendon)

1959 H.C. Yonce (Greenwood)1959 H.C. Yonce (Greenwood)

1958 H.B. Ray (Orangeburg)1958 H.B. Ray (Orangeburg)

1956 A.R. Carter (Williamsburg)1956 A.R. Carter (Williamsburg)

1950 A.T. Sealy (Greenville)1950 A.T. Sealy (Greenville)

1942 N. Nettles (Spartanburg)1942 N. Nettles (Spartanburg)

1941 J.P. Monroe (Florence)1941 J.P. Monroe (Florence)

1941 G.G. Broome (Jasper)1941 G.G. Broome (Jasper)

1940 H.M. Smith (Chesterfield)1940 H.M. Smith (Chesterfield)

1939 W. Bell (Lancaster)1939 W. Bell (Lancaster)

1938 L.L. Rhodes (Darlington)1938 L.L. Rhodes (Darlington)

1937 K.E. McNeill (Darlington)1937 K.E. McNeill (Darlington)

1935 E. Hennecy (Florence)1935 E. Hennecy (Florence)

1934 E.D. Milam (Greenville)1934 E.D. Milam (Greenville)

1934 H.M. Reeves (Richland)1934 H.M. Reeves (Richland)

1933 J.D. Cunningham (Spartanburg)1933 J.D. Cunningham (Spartanburg)

1932 W.P. Lancaster (Lee)1932 W.P. Lancaster (Lee)

The South Carolina Troopers Association dedicates this page to our fellow State Troopers who have made the ultimate sacrifi ce while serving the citizens of South Carolina. May their memories live on forever.


A Shooting or an Accident…

Nobody likes to think about it! But, it can happen to any State Trooper at any time.

There’s a shooting or a serious accident….someone is hurt…you’re involved.

As an SCTA member, you are not alone! The SCTA is here to protect your rights.

If it happens to you:

Don’t panic! Calm down and compose yourself.

Don’t rush into making a statement.

If you are asked to make a statement, call O’Leary Associates

1-800-781-1078O’Leary Associates will provide you with an attorney prior to making a

statement—either on the scene or wherever needed.

Wait until you talk to the SCTA Attorney before making any statements, oral or written.

The SCTA is serious about protecting you!

Visit O’Leary Associates online:www.olearylawsc.com


With the SCTA’s Legal Assistance Benefit…

“Do I need Board approval?” NO!

“Do I need the general membership’s approval?” NO!

“Will personalities be involved in my request” NO!

Under the Legal Assistance Benefit of the SCTA, only three simple questions are asked:

1. Are you an SCTA member in good standing? 2. Were you an SCTA member on the day of the incident?

3. Was the incident within the scope of your official duties as a State Trooper?

As an SCTA member, you have available to you 24-hour, on the scene coverage.

The SCTA is here for you when it counts!

For Legal Assistance, Contact O’Leary Associates

800.781.1078 or 803.779.5556


Two of South Carolina’s Finest Recognized by SC Firefi ghters Association

By Anna Brown, Staff Writer, Union Daily Times

EDITOR’S NOTE: The following article is reprinted with permission from The Union Daily Times

Three Union County firefighters were honored recently with a prestigious award during the South Carolina Firefighters Association Convention in Myrtle Beach.

J.D. McCarley, Kevin Smith and Chris West received the Meritorious Action Award for pulling a Monarch man from his burning home on Sept. 24. They were the only firefighters in the state to receive the award. They were nominated for the award by Philip Russell, training manager for the South Carolina Fire Academy and a fellow firefighter with Smith and West at Southside Fire Department.

The three were among the first on the scene when Brad Gibson’s home on Monarch Highway caught fire. Gibson remained hospitalized until his death in March. Authorities said the fire was started by a lava lamp.

McCarley is assistant chief with the Monarch Fire Department, chief of the Union County Rescue Squad, a firefighter with the South Carolina Air National Guard, a full-time firefighter with Croft Fire Department and a retired state trooper. Smith is a county deputy and fourth lieutenant with the Southside Fire Department, which was called to assist Monarch in fighting the fire at Gibson’s home. West, a senior trooper with the South Carolina Highway Patrol, is a volunteer with Monarch and the City of Union fire departments, the Union County Rescue Squad and is a lieutenant with Southside.

During the presentation of the award at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center on July 18, a prerecorded interview with the three firefighters was played on large screens for the audience to view.

Southside Fire Chief Michael “Bird” Lancaster spoke during the interview. Lancaster gave the events of the night of the fire. He said the three firefighters did a textbook rescue. West and McCarley helped knock the flames and then went in to find Gibson.

“They knew they had a victim in the house,” Lancaster said.

After hearing a sound, the two remained perfectly quiet in an attempt to find Gibson in the still hot house, their visibility diminished by the smoke.

“They located the victim and got him out,” Lancaster said. “Kevin was at the rear of the structure. He made entry through the back door and they extricated

Brad out the back with Kevin’s help. They handed Brad straight over to EMS, who was at the back door waiting.”

Lancaster said the fact that Gibson lost his life was a hard pill to swallow for firefighters.

“And we still need to keep Brad’s family in our prayers and they continue to go through the grieving process,” he said.

All three men said they were honored to receive the award but wished the outcome for Gibson would have been different.

“I told them I didn’t feel right about accepting the award on the terms; I hated to see a life lost,” Smith said. “But it made me feel good knowing I was trying to help somebody.”

All three men were honored by their respective departments this year for their part in pulling Gibson from the fire. Larry Robinson, who was chief of the Monarch Fire Department at the time of the fire, also was honored by his department in December. Robinson, a sergeant with the Union Public Safety Department, was on his way home from work and was the person who actually spotted the fire. He used his radio to call 911.

McCarley, who has been a fire volunteer for 30 years, said the award meant a lot, but it was hard to enjoy it knowing G i b s o n u l t i m a t e l y lost his battle. Through all the fires he had helped to put out, the blaze at Gibson’s home was the

first time he ever had the opportunity to use the life-saving skills firefighters train so much to develop.

“After all these years there had never been a case where someone said, ‘There is someone in there and you are going to have to go get them,’” McCarley said. There was a lot working against us and what really helped the most was the good

Lord, there is no doubt in my mind. He guided us where we needed to be.”

Firefighters responded quickly with trucks and were fortunate to have

Chris West, Kevin Smith and JD McCarley


volunteer Dr. John Flood on the scene. Flood now is Monarch Fire Chief.

Team effort“It was a team effort,” McCarley said. “The three of us were

recognized, but in reality, everybody there that night should have been recognized.”

West said he appreciated the award.“But you never want to get the recognition that way,” he said.

“It is good that you do your job, but that is not why you do it.”Russell said he nominated the three firefighters for the award

because of their actions and the manner in which they performed the skills of their profession.

“These firefighters entered into a super heated atmosphere where there was very limited visibility,” Russell said. “These firefighters had to use their sense of hearing to listen for the breathing patterns of the victim. They had to use the ability to get their eyes below the smoke filled conditions to visually see the location of the victim and then the calm to properly communicate where they were in the house and where they would best provide removal. The radio communication was specific for Firefighter Kevin Smith to know where the interior team of the house was and where he needed to go to assist with victim removal. Once the victim was removed, their job was not over as they re-entered the structure to continue to extinguish the fire. In short, these three firefighters used the training received for interior structural fire fighting in a text book fashion to affect a victim rescue.”

Firefighter’s goalRussell said the goal of a firefighter is to rescue someone

before they fall victim to the toxic vapors and heat generated by a fire, but too many times firefighters are too late because of the speed of the vapors.

“Many firefighters go through their entire career without providing a successful rescue,” he said. “While the effects of this fire did eventually claim a life, without the valiant effort of these three firefighters, the speed of the actions, combined with the high degree of competency of skills, there would have been no chance of survival. All of us in the Union County Fire Service are saddened by the eventual loss of life that this fire caused. The Union County Fire Service is made up of citizen membership that strives daily to protect and serve those that live in our county. Our fire service appreciates the support that each community provides to their local departments. The actions of these three firefighters deserved to be recognized for the job they performed. Their actions are a representation of the abilities of our entire county fire service and how fortunate we in Union County are to have such dedicated volunteers that will go above and beyond to look after the safety of our citizens.”

Russell said everyone should take the time to regularly test their smoke detector.

“This device is designed, if properly placed, to give you the time you need to get notified of a fire before the toxic smoke makes you rescue a race against time,” he said.▲▲

(continued from page 14)


“36 years, 8 months and 22 days.” That’s the answer I received when I recently asked Lt. Theodore Monroe Strickland, “Ted”, of Reevesville, how long he’d worked with the South Carolina Highway Patrol. His fi rst day on the job? September 24, 1972. 36 years may seem like a life-time to some, but to Ted it was just yesterday. He’s seen a lot over those years – during which he served his country, faced a life-threatening medical condition, saw big changes in the patrol, became a father and gave his life to the Lord – the latter two being his proudest accomplishments.

Born and raised in Olanta, S.C., in Florence County, Ted joined the Navy in 1968 and did his basic training in San Diego – a far cry from Olanta – and was then stationed at Little Creek, Virginia. While there he enrolled in electronics school and served two tours of duty - both at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. While at Guantanamo, he and his unit lived in tents and had very little luxuries. He laughed while remembering spending one Christmas there and having nothing but stale sandwiches for Christmas dinner. “It wasn’t the most pleasant of places, living in tents and taking cold showers, but we made it fun. The water was the most beautiful, clear blue water I’ve ever seen.” Ted fi nished his last tour in Charleston, on a minesweeper. “While I was still in Little Creek, I got promoted to E5 and before I could get the stripe sewn on my uniform, they sent me to Charleston. I fi nished out that tour on the USS Adroit, MOS-509, I’ll never forget that.” At the time Ted said goodbye to his family in Olanta, he had no idea he’d never live in Florence County again. The Lord was going to bring him to Dorchester County, to the little quiet town of Reevesville.

After serving four years in the Navy, Ted was just like any other young man his age – unsure what he wanted to do next and he considered re-enlisting. During his break after service he and a friend attended a job

fair at Fort Jackson and not fi nding anything that suited them, decided to stop by the wildlife department. There they were told there were no jobs, but that the highway patrol was hiring. Ted always admired Red Phillips, a trooper in Olanta and had always kept law enforcement as a career choice in the back of his mind. As fate would have it, he completed an application for the patrol and was hired. He completed eight weeks at the academy and then two weeks of “ride-alongs” with no badge and no gun. That’s the fi rst change Ted mentions he’s seen in his years with the patrol. “Back then, you had to ride along for two weeks before you were given your commission and own patrol car. It gave you a feel of what the job was about, but with the security of having an armed offi cer with you. Nowadays, you complete your training at the academy and that’s it – you’re given your commission and car, and you’re on the street.”

For four years after becoming a trooper, Ted attended school two nights a week and drew a G.I. Bill. In 1981, missing the benefi ts of the G.I. Bill, he enlisted in the National Guard and as he states, “suffered, really suffered” through 16 years of service as a Guardsman. By suffering, Ted simply means the time from his family lost giving that weekend of service to the Guard. “Back then, troopers had every fi fth weekend off…but where was my weekend spent? In the Guard. It took my free time away from my family and I missed a lot. I’m benefi tting from it now, but back then, it was a major sacrifi ce.” Ted served 16 years in the National Guard and retired in 1999, with full military benefi ts because of his service in both the Guard and the Navy.

Ted states his most favorite part of being a trooper was serving the public. “People always think we like being a trooper because they think it gives a right to speed, or that we have an attitude of ‘I’m the law’…for me it was none of that. I enjoyed serving

the public, working with the public…knowing in some small way I did my part to make our county safer.” As a young, newly commissioned trooper in 1974, Ted had his fi rst life-threatening stop on Hwy. 15, just minutes after going on midnight duty. He’d pulled a Mustang over and as he approached the vehicle, the driver pulled a .357 out of the window and fi red at Ted. “I’d just put on new pants that night and tore a hole in both knees diving between his car and mine.” The driver fi red off two more rounds before taking off and the car chase was on. Ted pursued the Mustang all the way to I-26, with responding offi cers en route, when the driver lost control of the car on the clover-leaf of I-95 and I-26. The driver, trained in Guerilla warfare and a Navy lieutenant, ran from the car, repeatedly fi ring at Ted. Ted began a foot pursuit, shooting off two shotgun rounds and watched as the driver went down. Thinking he’d shot the man, Ted took a relieved breath, only to see the man get back up and continue to fl ee.

The man was eventually caught and given twelve years for assault on a police offi cer. Ted went back to work the next day. This was the second change he’s seen over the years. “Back then, if you went through something like that, you brushed yourself off, got back in your patrol car and went back to work. Now, if something like that happens, they make you take time off from work, receive counseling before going back to work. We didn’t get any of that. We had to deal with the emotional and psychological aspects of that sort of confrontation all on our own and in our own way – while staying on the job.” Ted is quick to state that the idea of therapy and time off is a huge plus to the patrol.

“Those types of events, horrible wrecks, being shot or shot at…those things are permanently embedded in your mind…it’s not something you ever get over or ever forget about and it’s diffi cult to deal with left on your own.”

Lt. Strickland Retires from Highway PatrolThe following article appeared in the Dorchester Eagle record


It didn’t take him long to answer the question of what his least favorite part of the job had been – “time away from family, the loss of family time…and of course, being called to a wreck that involved children or young people. Being a father, it always weighed heavy on my heart when I’d arrive at a scene to fi nd a young person had lost their life. I took no joy in going to a wreck with small children, or young people involved.” Ted says that any man in law enforcement has to have a good wife at home, one that understands the job and the hours away from home, not to mention the dangers.

Ted has a good wife. Ted has a really good wife – Ennis Felder Strickland – born and raised in Reevesville. They met through a lifelong family friend, the late Terry Judy – an icon of the Reevesville community. Terry introduced Ted to Ennis and their fi rst date was at a ballgame at Durham’s Corner and as Ted puts it, “one date led to another and the rest is history”. They married a short time later and Ted became the step-father of Ennis’ son from her fi rst marriage, Michael Welch. “Mike was only 6 years old when I came into his life, but it didn’t long for him to mean the world to me…I’ve never felt like he was “someone else’s child”…he’s always been my son. He was a good child and a wonderful blessing.”

Some years later, another blessing would enter their lives in much the same way. Michael is an adopted child and years later, the Stricklands were ready to give him a little brother or sister. “We just told every doctor, every preacher, we’d run into, what we wanted to do…we were ready to adopt again and one day in October of ’81, the phone rang,” Ted remembers with a smile. Their son, Jeremy, was born the following January and it was one of the greatest moments of their lives. Ennis stated “both of my boys were the greatest gifts from God” and Ted echoes her sentiments,

“Michael was an answered prayer to me, at the age of only 6 and Jerremy…well, he was another answered prayer. Just a wonderful, wonderful blessing.”

Little did Ted know his answered prayers were just beginning. In 2002, after taking a fl ight to Washington on vacation with his family, the pressure from the plane ride caused his ear to stop up. The pressure on his ear was unlike any he’d experienced before and continued to bother him long after his return home. Ted was treated with antihistamines and various medicines for almost a year, none of which worked for long. His ear continued to drain fl uid and he soon lost all hearing in that ear. He was eventually referred to an ENT who determined Ted had a tear in the Duero lining of his brain, and was losing cerebral spinal fl uid through his ear. The tear was likely caused from a childhood injury – when Ted was a young boy, he was accidently hit on the side of the head when his cousin swung to hit a baseball and missed, hitting Ted instead. The doctor confi rmed the injury had left a clot in the Duero lining and the pressure from the plane ride had caused the clot to burst, tearing the lining of his brain.

Surgery was immediate and without delay. The Monday night before his scheduled Tuesday brain surgery, Ted and Ennis attended revival at Reevesville Baptist Church. Ted had been baptized at age 12, but had not seriously devoted himself to the church or God in much of his adult life. As the benediction was being made, Ted made the decision to take that walk to the altar. “I’d only known a couple of people that’d had brain surgery and I was scared to death. I knew I needed to make things right with the Lord and with my life.” Ted’s experience that night became the turning point in his life. He promised God that if it was His will for Ted to survive this surgery and grow to be an old man, Ted would spend the rest of his life living for Him.

The deacons of the church gave Ted what he called “laying of the hands” praying for him and Ted states he immediately felt a weight lifted from him. The surgery to repair the tear was successful and his hearing has been fully restored. “I knew in that moment, my life would be spared and I made good on that promise. I’ve devoted my life to doing God’s work, both in my church and in my community ever since.” Ted serves as Chairman of the Deacons of Reevesville Baptist Church, lay speaker, song leader and Discipleship Training Director, as well as a volunteer in many other areas of the church. “I was one of those people that always thought I’d have time later to make things right, to set my heart on the right path…I know now, I almost waited until it was too late,” he confesses.

36 years, 8 months and 22 days later, Ted turned in his patrol car. Of those years, 34 were spent serving Dorchester County, the last nine as an Administrative Executive Offi cer in the district offi ce. He’s been a Corporal, a Sergeant and retired a Lieutenant, but fi rst and foremost, always an offi cer and a gentleman. Ennis says, “He’s a wonderful

husband, a wonderful Daddy…the boys just love him to death. Mike calls home and after talking to me a few minutes, he wants to talk to Ted…Ted’s the one he talks to about whatever is going on in his life. The boys and I have truly been blessed to have Ted in our lives.” Dorchester County has truly been blessed as well. Ted was voted Trooper of the Year in 1996 for Troop # 6, Charleston District (Charleston, Berkeley, Dorchester, Colleton, Beaufort and Jasper counties) and in

2009 received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Fraternal Order of Police, Charleston Lodge.

Ted’s plans for retirement are like most people his age – traveling with his family and continuing God’s work. They’ve been to California to see Michael and are planning a return trip in the near future, as well as a long anticipated vacation to England. What does he miss the most about his job? “Being with the guys, the fellowship…working a job that I honestly enjoyed doing,” Ted answers. Then he smiles and continues.

“And my patrol car…I think I miss it more than anything else.” ▲▲▲

Ted & Mrs. EnnisSCTA Picnic 2007


Many people spend more time planning their vacation than planning for retirement.

Although there are many ways to save for your retirement, if you are like most people, you aren’t taking full advantage of them. For example, do you understand the basics of a Roth IRA? If not, here is a little Roth IRA Course 101.

New tax rules are about to give more people access to a Roth IRA, which has been called one of the best savings plans for later life. Currently, you aren’t allowed to convert traditional IRA assets to a Roth if your household’s modifi ed adjusted gross income exceeds $100,000. Starting January 1, 2010, the income limits that have prevented many individuals from converting a traditional IRA or employer-sponsored retirement plan to a Roth will be eliminated, although the income limits for funding a Roth will remain the same. With a Roth IRA, virtually all income growth and withdrawals are tax-free.

Of course there is still the matter of taxes. When you convert assets from a traditional IRA or employer plan to a Roth, you have to pay income tax on all pretax contributions and earnings included in the amount you convert.

You may be wondering why you should invest or convert to a Roth IRA if you have a retirement plan with your employer or you have traditional IRA account(s) separately. The Roth IRA has many benefi ts that other retirement plans do not offer. Accordingly, your Roth IRA has the opportunity to grow without incurring any taxes and may be distributed to you tax free, if certain criterion is met.

Although there are advantages to owning a Roth IRA, there are some rules to think about before you decide this is the best account for you. First off, not everyone can take advantage of a Roth IRA. You or your spouse must have earned income or compensation – this includes wages, tips or salary. Having said that, be aware that earned income or compensation does not include rental, interest, dividend, pension annuity, or deferred compensation income.

Secondly, your modifi ed adjusted gross income may not exceed certain limits. For single people, you modifi ed adjusted gross income must be less than $120,000* and $176,000* for married couples fi ling jointly.

Contributions you make to the account are not tax deductible, but may be withdrawn anytime without tax or penalty. Before taking withdrawals from your Roth you need to determine whether you are receiving a “qualifi ed distribution.” Any withdrawal that is not a “qualifi ed

distribution” can result in income taxes and IRS penalties.For example, any earnings on your principal will be

subject to income taxes should you decide to withdraw them before the fi ve-year holding period or before age 591/2 (contact your state department for state taxation rules). In addition, these earnings generally are subject to a ten percent IRS penalty.

Tax and penalty free withdrawal of your Roth IRA earnings for “qualifi ed distributions” may be made once a fi ve-year holding period is satisfi ed and one of the following applies:

You have reached age 591/21. You have become disabled2. The funds are used for a fi rst-time home purchase 3. (subject to a $10,000 lifetime limit)The funds are distributed to a benefi ciary after your 4. death

After thinking over the rules, if you are eligible for a Roth IRA, you may be wondering how much you are able to contribute. In 2009, you may make regular contributions that do not exceed $5,000. If you are 50 or older, you may also make

“catch-up” contributions of up to $1,000 a year for a total contribution of $6,000.

A couple of important items worth noting – contributions to your employer’s retirement plan do not exclude you from making contributions to a

Roth IRA, and owning a traditional IRA does not prevent you from setting up a Roth IRA either, although your contributions will be limited to the above-stated amounts.

Whether or not you decide a Roth IRA is the right retirement account for you, it is always smart to plan ahead and save money for the future. Never underestimate the importance of saving for retirement and using a variety of investment vehicles to achieve you fi nancial goals and objectives.

*Upper end of Phaseout of Roth contribution eligibility

Editor’s Note: Jim Shultz is a Financial Representative with Principal Life Insurance Company and a Registered Representative and Financial Advisor with Princor Financial Services Corporation, member SIPC. Principal Life and Princor® are members of the Principal Financial Group®, Des Moines, IA 50392. Jim is located in Lombard, IL. He lives in Crystal Lake, IL and may be reached at 630-652-1637 direct;866-637-5729 toll free; or [email protected].

Making the Right Choices Before RetirementJim Shultz


In it’s simplest defi nition, compassion fatigue means you get tired of caring. It was fi rst researched in young

protestant ministers in the upper Midwest but has since been expanded to cover medical, mental health, and law enforcement professionals. Most recently the research has focused on non-professional (usually family) caregivers for the elderly or those who suffer from long term disabilities. In many ways compassion fatigue is like stress, the major difference being compassion fatigue has been likened to an emotional exhaustion from trying to help so much or for so long that you lose the ability to care about people (Figley, 2002).

While not in law enforcement myself, I am in the mental health profession. My thinking about strategies for keeping myself “sane” so as to not take problems home with me started with a ride along with a UHP trooper in Morgan County almost 30 years ago. We were on patrol on I-84 just after dark and passed two motorcyclists who were clearly exceeding the speed limit. Being in my late teens it was exciting to execute a u-turn in the barrow pit and then chase them down with lights fl ashing. One of the riders was so belligerent and threatening to just ride off that the trooper asked him to sit in the back of the car while he wrote the ticket. This man was very angry and accused the offi cer of violating his rights “because everyone knows that chrome spokes distort radar readings” and that he really wasn’t speeding. The rant continued the entire time the offi cer was writing the ticket. The unfortunate thing about this whole incident was that the offender was the high school teacher and church leader that I had most looked up to. It seemed then, and that perception has been validated many times over the years that working with people in stressful situations can take a toll on the person trying to help. After sending the speeder off on his way most of my conversation with the trooper centered on how you could still like people after they treated you the way that they did

This same type of conversation has been held with a number of deputies and troopers over the years. Some of the conversations have been in training meetings, others while on ride alongs, but the majority have come in my

offi ce with offi cers struggling with substance abuse, marital problems, or depression. I don’t profess to have the answers but I have read and done trainings for law enforcement, mental health, and caregivers. Understanding the costs of compassion fatigue will help identify the seriousness and ideas to reduce the incidence of the problem.

The most frequently noted consequences and costs from compassion fatigue fall into four areas; job performance, morale, behavioral, and interpersonal distress. Job performance costs include low motivation, making more mistakes than usual, and a general increase in the frequency of absenteeism. The more common indicators of decreased morale include dissatisfaction or a negative attitude toward their job, developing a sense of apathy, and an increased sense of guilt for having the previous feelings. These two factors typically compound the impact of compassion fatigue. As compassion fatigue increases, these consequences become more noticeable. As the consequences become more noticeable the effects compound to increase the amount of compassion fatigue. It should be noted that people in almost every job will have days when they report the feelings reported above. Compassion fatigue occurs when these feelings and consequences become more frequent.

It is not unusual for an individual to recognize that compassion fatigue is becoming a problem. Behavioral indicators include increased irritability (with colleagues, the public, and their family) and/or overworking (extra shifts or

second jobs) in an attempt to prove to themselves that they can still do their job. These two indicators tend to be early warning signs that compassion fatigue is becoming an issue (Figley, 2002, Mayhew, 2001).

Perhaps the most damaging consequence of compassion fatigue is to the interpersonal relationships of the affected person. Compassion fatigue is associated with decreased relationship quality (spouse and children, but most close relationships are affected), withdrawal (lose emotional connection with others), and becoming more impatient. There is a 40+ year research history that

Avo i d Compass i on Fat i gue

By Scot Allgood, PhD **Reprinted with permission**

People who work in professions that deal with people in stressful situations are at an increased risk for a relatively new phenomena called compassion fatigue.


shows that work and family stress affect each other in very damaging ways. As a person’s interpersonal relationships become more strained, males in particular become more task oriented in their jobs, and they begin to put stress on the very support system that can help. Stressful relationships tend to isolate the affected person even more. This becomes serious as there is a substantial body of literature going back at least three decades documenting that people who work with individuals in stressful situations have higher than average rates of depression, alcoholism, divorce, and suicide.

There are three risk factors of particular note that effect law enforcement professionals. The fi rst is the culture commonly associated with law enforcement (Figley 2002, Mayhew, 2001). Part of the training to become an offi cer is learning to be emotionally detached (as much as possible) when on the job. This is a protective factor so that the offi cer can be more objective and lower the risk of confrontation. The combination of this training combined with work experience tends to inhibit normal and healthy expression of emotion. Negative effects are compounded as there is seldom enough time for offi cers to deal with stressful events before they are confronted with the next stressor. The last two risk factors are situational and personal (Figley, 2002; Kinzel, 2000). Situational factors are job specifi c stressors over which the individual has no control and may include shift work, catching friends or neighbors who are breaking the law, and dealing with repeat offenders. Personal factors include the emotional reaction and the coping skills that the individual can draw from. While it is a well established fact that some people deal with stress better than others, repeated exposure to the above risk factors can wear down even the most resilient offi cer. Personal coping skills can be enhanced with positive coworkers and a healthy work environment, both of which are in short supply in law enforcement. It is also worth noting that coping skills are decreased by health, relationship, or job problems.

Thus far the picture seems pretty gloomy- but is there hope. It is possible to develop or fi ne tune personal skills that are effective in reducing the risk of compassion fatigue. The remainder of this article will focus on self-care ideas that have been shown to be effective in reducing stress and the risk for fatigue. These factors include physical, psychological, interpersonal, and spiritual interventions.

Physical self care. This includes nutrition, sleep and exercise (Figley, 2002, Sapolsky, 2004). Healthy nutrition is an under utilized form of self-care for professionals in many fi elds. It is easy to justify not eating the way we should because of time, our love of comfort foods, and ease of preparation. Specifi c foods that increase stress and ultimately put you at risk for compassion fatigue include high fat foods (meat, cheese,

most baked goods- pizza covers all three at one time) which thicken your blood and is associated with fatigue. Sugar tends to give a burst of energy and calm people but the positive benefi ts are very short lived. Caffeine increases anxiety (in high doses can cause impairment) and disrupts sleep. Many people can drink a caffeinated beverage and go to bed but the research shows you don’t sleep as deeply as normal. Thus when you wake up it’s hard to get going without another shot. Behaviorally it’s a similar process to that of an alcoholic. A healthy diet can help reduce stress and lead to more restful sleep.

The importance of exercise goes beyond fi tness tests and standards (Sapolsky, 2004). Aerobic exercise burns the stress hormones secreted by the adrenal glands which by itself makes you feel better. An additional benefi t is that with a good workout your brain secretes endorphins- in essence you manufacture your own feel good drug. A healthy diet and appropriate exercise are relatively easy self care behaviors that work to reduce the impact of stress on your body. It is important to note that when your body is under stress it is harder to have appropriate responses to emotionally charged situations.

Psychological. There are a number of psychological ways to protect yourself from compassion fatigue and include balancing work and play, relaxation, self assessment, and having appropriate life goals (Figley, 2002, Sapolsky, 2004). Remembering that the defi nition of compassion fatigue is being tired of caring, psychological tools are important as they add new information and activities that engender a sense of hope and wellbeing. As has been previously noted, overwork is strongly associated with compassion fatigue. Carefully monitoring the balance between work and play generally makes it easier to separate the work-family stressors thereby allowing competence on the job and to really be home when you are home. Closely related to this idea is being able to relax. There are behavioral methods of relaxation that focus on specifi c muscle groups, one at a time until the entire body is relaxed . Another common type of relaxation is visualization. This can range from picturing yourself in a calm setting to being interactive and visualizing yourself in a more active role like fi shing or recalling pleasant interactions. Finding a way to relax benefi ts both your body and mind.

Self assessment and goals are very closely related. Effective self assessment will generally cover the major aspects of your

life- thoughts, emotions, relationships, and the things you are looking forward to in life. One of the commonly cited books on people who survive (being lost, prisoner of war, life threatening illnesses, etc) refers time and again to the idea that you have to know why you want to live (Siebert, 1993). This knowledge helps people calm down so they make rational decisions instead of reacting to emotion.

(continued on page 22)


It seems like a strange idea but have you ever considered how you think about how you think? Do you consciously plan time to think about positive and uplifting things? Knowing that you will have a number of negative interactions on a daily basis, (realistically how many people confess to wrongdoing?) do you expect the best or worst from people? Working in law enforcement you have to be prepared for the worst in every situation, and this can easily lead to pervasively negative thoughts. This is compounded as it is easy for offi cers to believe that no one understands the stresses they are under and they begin to look for evidence that their job or life is harder than that of most other people. These negative thought processes build stress within the person and makes it more likely they will experience compassion fatigue. Remembering why you started your career, periodically reviewing the positive feedback you have received, and consciously setting goals to learn or have new experiences will all help counteract self defeating thoughts (Seligman, 1998).

Social Support. Without exception the most important wat to protect yourself from compassion fatigue centers around building an effective support system (Figley, 2002). This includes family relationships, friends (both at and away from work), spiritual orientation, and seeking help when needed. There has been clear research evidence for almost 30 years that the best way to insulate yourself from stress is to keep your intimate relationships in good order. Intimate relationships refer to those family members or close friends with whom you have a close emotional bond. As noted earlier, stress tends to increase emotional distance in relationships. This is important as emotional withdrawal from your spouse and/or children is associated with all kinds of negative outcomes. For example, researchers can predict the probability of divorce with 93% accuracy in a 3 minute interview using emotional withdrawal as one of the key predictors. There are some relatively simple concepts to keep your intimate relationships in good order. Key questions to ask yourself include- When was the last time I shared some of my stresses and happy events with my family? Do we have a hard time fi nding things to talk about when we are alone? Do I like to be alone with my spouse/family or do we always have to be off doing something? There are many resources to strengthen marriages and families. A simple act to get started is to simply watch for something on a daily basis that impacts you that can then be shared with your spouse/family that same day. These simple interactions help strengthen the relationships and reduce the stresses associated with your career.

There is a huge body of research on the role of friends and the many ways that they provide social support. One of

the more important roles of a variety of friends is emotional support. The research indicates that this is important for both males and females. Typically females will talk to a larger number of friends but when males talk to their friends they report benefi ts in the same magnitude that the females do. The research shows that for both sexes the friends have to be people that you trust and that trust you. In healthy friendships there is a balance of self disclosure between both parties. The implication is that you really have to choose your friends with care. I made a decision over 20 years ago not to associate with other mental health workers. Other than a periodic work meal I have found that having a variety of friends exposes to me to new information and ideas and greatly reduces my stress- unless one of them is a trooper and you get drafted to write an article for their trade magazine.

Research in a variety of fi elds over the last 20 years has found that a spiritual orientation is associated with happiness, having strong families, being able to deal with crises, and having lower levels of stress (Weaver et al., 2003). This body of research indicates that the internalized beliefs that there is a God or a higher being gives people a sense of hope and a purpose in life. The research is very clear that most of these people will belong to an organized religion but it is the beliefs that are more important than the practice. Specifi c to compassion fatigue, having a sense of hope and purpose in life is strongly associated with being at lower risk for problems.

Research on compassion fatigue and help seeking among mental health workers in Utah show an interesting trend related to the dominant religious culture. There is increasing evidence that LDS professionals are much less likely to seek help than those who belong to other faiths. In contrast, however, the research also indicates that LDS professionals have more religion based coping skills which moderates the impact of stress and compassion fatigue. There is both research and anecdotal data that these trends are common among a variety of other professionals who work with the public in the state of Utah. It seems that it is far easier to help others than it is to ask for help ourselves. In one of the sad experiences in my life, I have watched a friend who was the deputy called out on an endangered person report. He arrived in time to witness a teenager commit suicide. He was so distraught he turned down the opportunities for debriefi ngs and increased his alcohol consumption to cope. The simple decision to not seek help and try to deal with things all on his own has cost him his family, friends, career, and self respect.

Editor’s Note: This article appeared in an issue of Utah State Trooper magazine and has been reprinted with permission from the author.

ReferencesFigley, C. R. (2002). Treating Compassion Fatigue. Philadelphia: Brunner.Mayhew, C. (2001). Occupational health and safety risks faced by police offi cers. Trends and Issues in Crime and Criminal Justice, 1-6.Sapolsky, R. M. (2004). Why Zebras don’t get Ulcers. New York: Freeman and Company.Seligman, M. E. (1998). Learned Optimism: How to change your mind and your life. New York: Pocket Books.Siebert, A. (1993). The Survivor Personality. New York: Berkeley Publishing. Weaver, A. J., Flannelly, L.T., Garbarino, J., Figley, C., & Flannelly, K. J. (2003). A review of the research on religion and spirituality. Mental Health, Religion and Culture, 6, 215-228.

These are representative references. Feel free to contact the author at [email protected] for a more complete list or specifi c details.

(continued from page 21)


PromotionsSGT Eric T. Flowers, Troop Six, promoted to Lieutenant, effective 9/17/2009.

SGT William N. Wise III, Troop Six, promoted to Lieutenant, effective 9/17/2009.

SGT Michael A. Burgess, HQ TCC, promoted to Lieutenant, HQ TCC, effective 9/17/2009.

SGT John J. Kessler, Troop Three, promoted to First Sergeant, Troop Three, Post D effective 9/17/2009.

L/CPL Michael W. Jones, Troop Two, promoted to Corporal, Troop Two, Post A, effective 9/17/2009.

L/CPL Ryan H. Olney, Troop Four, promoted to Corporal, Troop Four, Post D, effective 9/17/2009.

L/CPL Albert R. Walters, Troop Four, promoted to Corporal, Troop Four, Post D, effective 9/17/2009.

L/CPL Charles H. Lowder, Troop Five, promoted to Corporal, Troop Five, Post B, effective 9/17/2009.

L/CPL Curtis A. Burns, Troop Seven, promoted to Corporal, Troop Seven, Post A, effective 9/17/2009.

L/CPL Eric W. Sox, Troop Six, promoted to Corporal, Troop Seven, Post B, effective 9/17/2009.

L/CPL Matthew G. Davis, Troop Seven, promoted to Corporal, Troop Seven, Post A, effective 9/17/2009.

LT Gilmore S. Owens III, Troop Eight, promoted to Captain, Troop Eight, effective 11/17/2009.

LT Charles S. Watford, HQ, Patrol Supply, promoted to Captain, HQ, Resource Management, effective 11/17/2009.

CPL Kenneth D. Stone, Troop Three, promoted to Sergeant, Troop Three, Post D, effective 12/17/2009.

CPL Bobby J. Albert, Troop Four, promoted to Sergeant, Troop Four, Post A, effective 12/17/2009.

CPL Darren G. Wilson, HQ, promoted to Sergeant, Troop Eight, ACE Interdiction, effective 12/17/2009.

L/CPL Manley V. Harris, Troop Two, promoted to Corporal, Troop Two, Post B, effective 12/17/2009.

L/CPL Gerald D. Morris, Troop Five, promoted to Corporal Troop Five, Post C, effective 12/17/2009.

L/CPL David A. Deering, Troop Seven, promoted to Corporal, Troop Seven, Post C, effective 12/17/2009.

L/CPL Jack B. Parrish, Troop Eight, promoted to Corporal, Patrol Training, effective 12/17/2009.

L/CPL Everick Patterson, Troop One, promoted to Corporal, Patrol Training, effective 12/17/2009.

TransfersL/CPL Matthew T. Cook reassigned to HQ (Executive Protection Detail) from Troop Two effective 7/2/2009.

L/CPL Joshua R. Edwards reassigned to Troop Five, Post A from HQ (Executive Protection Detail) effective 7/2/2009.

TFC Scott A. Grappone reassigned within Troop 6 to Post A from Post B effective 7/17/2009.

L/CPL Donnie L. Gilbert reassigned to Troop Three, Post D from Troop 8 (ACE Team) effective 10/2/2009.

L/CPL Scott A. Trowell reassigned to Troop Seven, Post C from Troop One, Post C effective 10/2/2007

CPL Billy W. Tyler reassigned from HQ to Troop Five HQ effective 10/2/2009.

TFC Drew S. Ledbetter reassigned to Troop Three, Post C from Troop One, Post C effective 10/17/2009.

TFC Jason L. Stewart reassigned within Troop Three to Post B from Post A effective 11/2/2009.

L/CPL Jeffrey N. Gaskin reassigned to Troop Four, Post D from Troop Nine (CRO) effective 11/17/2009.

SeparationsCPT Darryl A. Kelly, Commander, Patrol Training, retired effective 12/1/2009.

TFC Matthew B. Sarvis, Troop Five, Post D, resigned effective 10/27/2009.

L/CPL Richard Riney, Troop Six, Post B, resigned effective 10/31/2009.

L/CPL Brian K. Allen, Troop Eight (ACE Team) resigned effective 11/28/2009.

S/TPR S. M. Groubert, Troop One, Post D, resigned effective 9/19/2009.

TPR E.R.McKenzie, Troop One, Post D, resigned effective 10/10/2009.

TFC Kevin P. Malloy, Troop Six, Post A, resigned effective 10/22/2009.▲▲▲

T R O O P E R S O N T H E M O V E


Legal Representation• for Active Troopers (for incidents which occur within the line of duty)\

All members in good standing have • Basic Life Insurance. There is also an Accidental Death

Benefi t which is paid when a member dies from accidental bodily injury. (*call or e-mail for specifi c

information)

Emergency Relief Fund-• available to any member in good standing who, through no fault of their own,

requires fi nancial assistance.

Annual Scholarships• are awarded to members in good standing as well as their dependents. Scholarship

applications are available the 2nd Monday in January.

Basic Carolina AAA Motor Club Membership• for Active Troopers who are SCTA members.

National Troopers Coalition Membership• for Active Troopers. The NTC represents State Troopers

nationwide. Visit their website at www.ntctroopers.com.

Subscription to • South Carolina Trooper magazine

The SCTA monitors and pursues legislation that will enhance public safety and the working conditions •

of our members. The NTC performs the same task on the national level.

20% discount on merchandise• at the SCTA Store for SCTA members. Shop online at www.store.

sctroopers.org

Member-only discounts• to various theme parks and recreation areas including Hollywild Animal Park

(Wellford); Carowinds; several Myrtle Beach venues including Ripley’s Aquarium, Freestyle Music Park, Myrtle

Waves and NASCAR Speedpark; Riverbanks Zoo & Gardens (Columbia); Charleston County Waterparks;

Disney Theme Parks, Sea World, and Busch Gardens. Unless specifi c information is required (listed below),

you may call the SCTA Offi ce, 800.633.2236, ext. 10 or send an e-mail to offi [email protected] to

request information and prices.For Disney Theme Park discounts, visit their website: • www.offi cialticketcenter.us. USERNAME: SCSTA PASSWORD: trooperFor Carowinds discounts, go to • www.carowinds.com and click on the “tickets” link. Then click on “Corporate Partners” and enter the code sct09For special vacation deals and savings at Anheuser-Busch Adventure Parks, go to • www.adventureclubonline.com and click on

“Tickets” for printable coupons.

Show your SCTA Membership card or SCHP badge at Hollywild Animal Park (• www.hollywild.com) and receive a 15% discount .

SCTA Membership Card• , identifying you as an SCTA member as well as an SCTA member decal,

exclusively for SCTA members, to display on your vehicle.

SCTA Membership Has Its Benefi ts!

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For the past 21 years, Concerns of Police Survivors has asked law enforcement families, surviving families, and police supporters to burn a blue light in their windows during the holiday season. The blue light is symbolic of our remembrance of those offi cers who have made the supreme sacrifi ce and honors those offi cers who continue to work the violent streets of our nation.

The idea began in 1988 when Mrs. Dolly Craig wrote to C.O.P.S. that she would be putting two blue candles in her living room window that holiday season. One for her son-in-law, Daniel Gleason, who had been killed in the line of duty while serving the Philadelphia (PA) Police Department on June 5, 1986, and one for her daughter and Danny’s wife, Pam, who had been killed in an automobile accident in August 1988. Danny and Pam had 6 children. Dolly Craig is now deceased as well, but her idea is her legacy. Project Blue Light now burns bright in the hearts of the nearly 15,000 surviving families of America’s fallen law

enforcement offi cers during the holiday season.“Everyone who appreciates law enforcement should get

involved with Project Blue Light,” said Jennifer Thacker, C.O.P.S. President, “Project Blue Light allows citizens to show support for local law enforcement and the heroes who have been killed in the line of duty.” Project Blue Light is a simple gesture; during the holidays decorate with blue lights or simply insert a single blue bulb in the candle stick replicas that adorn many windows in homes or businesses. C.O.P.S. also encourages law enforcement agencies to decorate the precinct stations and headquarters in blue lights.

The color blue is symbolic of peace. By displaying blue lights in your holiday decorations, you will be sending a dual message – that you support America’s peacekeepers and that you hope the coming year will be a year of peace.

▲▲▲For information on the South Carolina Chapter of COPS, please visit their website at http://www.carolinacops.org/

Project Blue Light:Let your blue lights shine for law enforcement during the holidays

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to be a sponsor of the SCTA!to be a sponsor of the SCTA!Persimmon Hill Golf Club is located in Saluda, SC. Club owners Danny Tidwell and Jerry Holmes, along with General Manager Chris Cason, are longtime supporters of the South Carolina Highway Patrol. As an incentive for you to visit our course, we are now offering all SCTA Members in good standing a substantial discount on greens fees. (*restrictions apply)

Please call us ahead for tee time, rates, and • course information-(803) 275.3522Offer is for SCTA members in good standing; • non-member guest(s) should expect to pay full priceValid SCTA Membership Card must be • presentedProper golf attire required• Offer may not be available around holidays • and special events such as Masters’ Week.


In Loving Memory In Loving Memory L/CPL Jonathan NashL/CPL Jonathan Nash

End of Watch September 19, 2009End of Watch September 19, 2009


South Carolina Operation Lifesaver Celebrates Thirty Years of Railroad Safety, Education and Information

Operation Lifesaver began in South Carolina in 1979. In the prior year the state recorded 260 crashes between motor vehicles and trains. Thirty years later, in 2008, there were 62 crashes – a reduction of 76 percent, despite increases in registered vehicles, vehicle miles and train miles.

“But 62 incidents are too many,” said Janice Cowen, State Coordinator of South Carolina Operation Lifesaver.

“And we must continue our efforts to educate the public about the need for increased awareness when approaching railroad crossings whether in a car, on a bike or on foot.”

“Unfortunately, too many people take rail crossing signs and signals too lightly,” said SCDPS Director Mark Keel. “Folks who buckle up, avoid driving drunk and watch their speed may think nothing of going around crossing gates or ignoring fl ashing lights. But rail safety is a vital component of highway safety.”

A motorist is 20 times more likely to die in a crash with a train than in a collision involving another motor vehicle. Trains weigh 4,000 times that of an average car. In addition, trains cannot stop quickly. It takes the average train a mile or more to stop compared to a motor vehicle, which can usually stop within 200 feet.

A train’s weight and limited stopping ability place the responsibility of preventing these crashes in the hands of motorists. Therefore, motorists must approach crossings with awareness, obey signs and signals and look and listen for trains. Trains can approach from any direction,

at any time of the day or night. Motorists must yield the right of way to the train.

“We have come a long way since 1979 in terms of improving railroad safety in South Carolina, but we have a long way to go,” Cowen said. “With our upcoming enforcement and education efforts, we hope to impact and improve railroad safety even more in our state.”

Operation Lifesaver is a non-profi t, international continuing public education program designed to end collisions, deaths and injuries at places where roadways cross train tracks, and on railroad rights of way. To accomplish its mission, Operation Lifesaver promotes three E’s:

Education: Operation Lifesaver strives to increase public awareness about the dangers around the rails. The program seeks to educate both drivers and pedestrians to make safe decisions at crossings and around railroad tracks.Enforcement: Operation Lifesaver promotes active enforcement of traffi c laws relating to crossing signs and signals and private property laws related to trespassing.Engineering: Operation Lifesaver encourages continued engineering research and innovation to improve the safety of railroad crossings.

##For additional information, please contact Janice Cowen at [email protected].

n Lifesaver began in South Carolina in 1979.year the state recorded 260 crashes betweenles and trains. Thirty years later, , iniiinn 20000888,,,2 crashes – a reduction of 76 percccennnneneenenttt, ddddesesesesesee pipp ttteeregistered vehicles, vehicle milesss anaaaa d d trtrraiaiaiaiaaiinn

ncidents are too many,” said Janice Cowowwwwwen, nator of South Carolina Operation Lifefefeeesssasas ver.st continue our efforts to educate thehehehehe publiiliic cd for increased awareness when apppapppappprp oachchchchchhiiinininingg sings whether in a car, on a bike or rrrr onononnon f foottt.”nately, too many people take rail crcrcroso sinnngggnnnggnals too lightly,” said SCDPS DDDDirrirririiri ececccccctotoottootoor r MMaMMaMMMMaaMMaM rkrkrkkrrr who buckle up, avoid drivinnnggg g ddddrdddddd unnkk kkkk aananndd speed may think nothing of gggggggggoioiiooiioioo ngnngngnngngggg aaaaa arrrororooouuuunnnuuu dd es or ignoring fl ashing lights. Buuuuttt tt rararararrailililillil ssssss safetttyy

mponent of highway safety.”st is 20 times more likely to die in a crashthahahaaahahahan n iiininininnn a a a aaa collllllililisisisisisionononoonononn i nvvvvolloll ivivivivvingngngnggngng annoooththththhhererererrrer m m motororrorroraiaiiiiaiinsnss ww ieiieiee gghggh 4,00000000000000 t tt ttttttiimiii eeees tttttthahahahahat t t off aan nn n n aavavvvaavaveraggggggggee e e iooiooooon,nn,,n,n tt trrrarararrrarainnnnnnnins caannnnnn tttot stoppp p quququuuquuicicicklkkk y. IttttI tttakakkakaka eeeseee tttthehehehehehehhee

n a imimillele or moorere to stopp c comomppareeddddd to aa m mototoorchh c can usualallylyyy stop p pppp wiwiththin 220000 f feeeet.wweww ight anddddd liimi iteddd ssssssttototoppppppp ingggg abaabbabbbabilillililiiititiiti y plllacacacaacceeeee ththththththe eyy of prevennnnntiiinng thhheeseseee c crrarrr shheeess i iiinnn ttthththe haaaandndndndnndndds s ofofoooohhhhhherer fefefeforoororooo e, mmmmmootottoristtstssts mmmmust appppprprrp oaooaoachchcchchc crorooooosssssiinnininggsggggess, obey signs and signals and look and

at any time of the day or night. Motorists must right of way to the train.

“WWe have come a long way since 1979 in immmpprprp ovviinininini g g railroad safety in South Carolina, butaaa longggngg w w ay to go,” Cowen said. “With our uenfofofofofooorrrcement and education efforts, we hope tannnnannddd d improve railroad safety even more in our st

Operation Lifesaver is a non-profi t, intecontinininninnuiuu ng public education program designecocococococoollllisioionnnsnnnn , deaths and injuries at places where rcrosssossss s tttrtrtrain tracks, and on railroad rights of waccoompm lish its mission, Operation Lifesaver thhththhthhhhhrrrerreee ee e E’EE’’E’EE s:s:s:s::s:

EdddEdEddEducation: Operation Lifesaver striveininnnnccrc ease public awareness about the daara ound the rails. The program seeks to edboth drivers and pedestrians to make decisions at crossings and around railroad tEnEnnEnEnnnforrcemme ent:t:t::tt: O peeerratiitititiionooo Lifeppromoooteess acctctcttivivvvvve eeenneenffooffoffoorceeemmmmmeenenneenent tttt ooofffo traffi c rrelatinnngg to cccrrccc osososooo sisiiissiinnggnnggggg siggggnss aandnd s ignalsprivate e propertyty laws rerellated d tto trespaEnngigiggg neerrininng: OOpepeppp raratition LLififesesava er eeencnnccouconntntnn iiniinnnueeddd d enginnneeerrriiiningg g reseeeararr hhchhhchchhch aaa andnn iiiinnnnnnnnovto iiiiiiiiimmmpmpppprrrooororovvev theee ssafafafeetete y oooff rrrraiaiaaillrlrllllrl oad cros

############For additional information, please contact Janice


schp merchandise

at the scta store!This is just a sampling of our merchandise

For more merchandise, please go to www.store.sctroopers.orgp g


SCTA

News BriefsNew Eff ort to Assist Our Brothers

and Sisters in Law Enforcement with An Age-Old Issue

You know it. I know it. We all know it. We all know a friend or co-worker in law enforcement who wrestles with an addiction to alcohol or prescription drugs. We know it, yet we are baffl ed about the best way to help these offi cers. The purchase and consumption of alcohol off-duty is not against the law. Yet, over the years, we have watched our friends become captives to the power of alcohol addiction. We know offi cers who started taking pain killers for an injury and now we fear the worst. What a sad state of affairs when that addicted friend loses his family, his job or even his life. We are left wondering:

“Did I do what I could do to help my friend fi nd his way (her way) out of this hell-on-earth called addiction?”

Starting in the Fall of 2009, a new group is forming in the Midlands for police offi cers who need help and who want to help others. Based on the Lawyers-Helping-Lawyers Model,this will be a peer-based group run by cops……for cops. The group will gather on a regular basis for the purpose of supporting offi cers as they fi nd a pathway out of their addiction. The meeting site will be the South Carolina Sheriffs’ Association, 112 Westpark Blvd, Columbia, SC 29210. This group is open to all sworn offi cers (local, state, and federal offi cers, active and retired).

If you would like more information on this program and information on specifi c meeting times and dates, please contact SGT Ricky Grubbs (SCHP) at 803-360-8005 or email him at [email protected].

South Carolina’s Finest Compete in USMC Mud Run

In September 2009, TFC M.S. Clayton, L/CPL R.V. Burgess, TFC J.M. Simmons and TFC S. Cirencione (pictured below) participated in the United States Marine Corps 16th Annual Mud Run in Columbia, the largest Mud Run in the Southeast. Their team was one of 1800 teams, and they competed in the Homeland Hero Division, placing seventh out of 62 teams in their division. The Ultimate Challenge Mud Run is over 4.2 miles, and has 30 obstacles that have to be crossed by each team requiring team work and a lot of determination. The trails include mud holes, walls, trenches and other obstacles that require swimming, crawling, climbing and jumping. Congratulations, guys!

SCTA Retirees Representative Harold Deese recently had the opportunity to meet Richard Petty at the NTC Conference in Concord, NC.Maranda Shirley, granddaughter of L/CPL Paul Nelson (Troop 6)

shows off her grandfather’s patrol shirt and USMC headcover.


SCTA

News Briefs

On April 24, 2009, S/TPR & Mrs. Justin E. Rogers (Troop 4), welcomed a baby girl, Sophie LeiAnn, into the world. She was 8 lbs. , 9 oz., and 20 1/2 inches long.

On November 25, 2009, TCO III Trena Tramel welcomed a grandson, Ethan Ray Burpo into the world. He weighed 6 lbs., 14 oz. and was 20 inches long.

On December 12, 2009, TPR Mark Amos (Troop 6) got married to his fi ance, Keri Fioto.

thththee e wowoworlrlld.d.d. S SShehehe w wwasasas 8 88 l llbsbsbs.. . ,, ,,, 99 9 ozozo .,.,.,,, a aandndnd 2 200 0 1/1//22 i iincncnchehehess s lololongngnggg...gg

On October 10, 2009 TFC & Mrs. James Terry Sarvis (Troop 5 Post D) welcomed their little trooper Rylan James. Rylan was 7 lbs. 15 oz. and 21 1/4 inches long.

L/CPL J.L. Baldwin ( Troop 3) with daughter Natalie as she won 1st runner up and fi rst place in best attire and most photogenic at a recent pageant.

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On November 8, 2009, L/CPL & Mrs. Jeremy T. Leach (MAIT), welcomed a baby boy, Kennedy Joseph, into the world. Kennedy weighed 8 lbs, 1 oz.


SCTANews Briefs

In November 2009, M.D. Tomson (Troop 7) was sworn in as the SCTA’s new Troop Seven Representative, and Judd Jones was sworn in as the Headquarters Representative. In January 2009, B.K. Floyd will be sworn in as the new President of the SCTA, and Jason Cartier will be sworn in as the new Troop Four Representative. For a complete list of Board Members, please see the inside cover.

L/CPL Chris Mace (Troop 3) took up the hobby of growing giant pumpkins several years ago. In 2009, he grew a 683 lb. pumpkin.

Imagine the seeds in that pumpkin!

Ronald Millhouse, Jr., grandson of L/CPL & Mrs. T.U. Millhouse (RET), a freshman at Hammond High School, won the 4th State Championship in football on November 2009. Another grandson, T.U. Millhouse, IV, a graduate student at South Carolina State University, won the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference Championship in football in November 2009.

Pictured below: On left, Ronald Millhouse. On right, TU Millhouse, IV with proud grandfather!

Dr. Frankie Crain, daughter of LT & Mrs. Don Crain (RET), recently moved to Tennessee to work in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit. She did both her residency (2003-06) and fellowship (2006-09) at Emory University School of Medicine. She now specializes in Pediatric Critical Care.ppppppppp

M a r r i a g e A n n o u n c e m e n t s♥♥♥♥♥On October 17, 2009, L/CPL James H. Lane (Troop 1), married Holly Branson. The ceremony was held at Sunset Acres in Cade, SC.99

B i r t h A n n o u n c e m e n t s♥♥♥♥♥ On December 7, 2009, TCO & Mrs. Kragh Kelling (Troop 6) welcomed a son, Christian Garrett, into the world. Christian was 7 7 7lllbl s., 15 ozs., and was 20 3/4 inches long♥♥♥♥On December 6, 2009, TPR & Mrs. Brian Roberts (Troop 6), welcomed a baby girl, Gianna Kathleen, into the world. Gianna was 8 lbs., 9 ozz. . .. ♥anaa d 19 3/4 inches long.♥♥♥♥♥ On November 7, 2009, TFC & Mrs. Datrick Prince (Troop 1), welcomed a baby boy, Jamal Daniel, into the world. Jamal was 8lbll s, 1 oz.♥♥♥♥♥On November 4, 2009, TFC & Mrs. Anthony B. Fox (Troop 5), welcomed a baby boy, Henry, into the world. Henry weighed 8.5 lbs. and was 20.55♥inii ches long.♥♥♥♥♥On October 30, 2009, TFC & Mrs. B.S. Bryson (Troop 3), welcomed a baby boy into the world. He weighed 8 lbs, 8 oz..♥♥♥♥♥♥♥ On September 25, 2009, L/CPL & Mrs. J.T. Phillips welcomed a baby boy, Cohen Thomas, into the world. Cohen weighed 5 lbs, 7 7 7 ozozozozozozozozoozoozozoooooo . . . .. .. ananananaaand d d d d wawawawawas s s s s 191919191919 i i i i incncncncncnchehehehehehes s ss s lololololongngngngngngggggg.....


SCTANews Briefs

For more information on the Identity Theft Shield benefit contact:

Jim Carter Certified Risk Management Consultant

Phone: 803-463-3935 Email: [email protected]

The FBI reports that identity theft has now become the fastest growing crime in the US with over 27,000 victims every day! The South Carolina Trooper Association has part-nered with the PSBA in offering its members the Identity Theft Shield for less than 50 cents a day! This service provides you a copy of your Experian credit report, monitors your credit 24 hours a day, and provides identity restoration if you are ever a victim! The plan provides coverage for SCTA members and their spouse and provides iden-tity restoration in all forms of identity theft including medical, credit, criminal, charac-ter, employment, and drivers license fraud. The average identity theft victim spends over 600 hours and over $1500 in the process of restoration. This new benefit can save you both time and money!

Your Identity is Your Business—Protecting it is Ours!

F/SGT Sinkler Working his assigned station at the football games, George Rogers Blvd. and Key Road.

Some of South Carolina’s Finest at the Carolina vs. Florida Gators game.


To order any of the pictured merchandise, or to see more merchandise available at the SCTA Store, visit us atwww.store.sctroopers.org.

If you have specifi c questions about colors, sizes, etc., simply send an e-mail to [email protected] or call us toll-free at (800) 633-2236, ext. 13. The store is open Tuesday-Friday and is closed on Mondays. On-line shopping is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

A handling fee of $3 will be added to all mail orders, in addition to shipping charges. All packages are shipped via USPS First Class mail, unless other arrangements are made with the SCTA Store.

Now through January 31, 2010, enter the code “WINTER FUN when you make an on-line purchase and save an additional 10% off any purchase over $40. This offer is only valid on-line.

s.c.h.p. merchandiseat the scta store!

Be sure to visit us onlinewww.store.sctroopers.orgp g

Portfolio

Zippered Portfolio


ATTENTION RETIRED SCHP TROOPERS! Show your SCHP pride with a custom Retired Trooper License Plate! We are in the process of trying to get a Retired Trooper license plate exclusively for retired SCHP Troopers. If you are interested in one of these plates, the cost will be approximately $90 for two years (biennial fee plus special plate fee).

Contingent upon interest and approval of the plate design by the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles, there must be at least 400 prepaid applications to proceed. If you are interested in one of these plates, please complete the form below and mail it to the following address:

SCTA OFFICE ATTN: LICENSE PLATE 4961 BROAD RIVER ROAD COLUMBIA, SC 29212

If you have access to e-mail, you may send the requested information to [email protected]. You may also fax this form to 803.772.1125.

I am definitely interested in the Retired SCHP Plate I am possibly interested in the Retired SCHP Plate

Rank/Name: ______________________________________________

Address: ______________________________________________

City, State, ZIP: ______________________________________________

Phone Number: (_______)-__________-__________ E-mail Address _______________________________ (If applicable) Number of plates requested: _______

***NOTE: The final, approved version of the tag may differ from the one shown below***


South Carolina Troopers Association4961 Broad River RoadColumbia, SC 29212www.sctroopers.org

NON-PROFIT ORGUS POSTAGE

P-A-I-DColumbia, SC

#487

Have you checked out our online store lately? Have you checked out our online store lately? Go toGo to www.store.sctroopers.orgwww.store.sctroopers.org to check out new to check out new

merchandise, specials, and much more!merchandise, specials, and much more!

winter 2009 sc trooper magazine

Documents

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