S.C. Fallen Trooper Memorial Unveiled

The S.C. Highway Patrol unveiled a memorial Friday to the 50 state troopers who have died in the line of duty.

The granite monument stands at the S.C. Dept. of Public Safety office in Columbia, but its roots come from a special event at Charleston Southern University in 2010.

Col. Mike Oliver said Friday that the monument is a permanent reminder of sacrifice.

"Everyone who walks onto these grounds will be reminded that to live in a safe and secure society, a price has been paid," he said. "These 50 names encompass what it means to give yourself to the greater good in our society."

Fundraising began with the Fallen Trooper Memorial Run at CSU in 2010. The 24-hour run/walk event raised more than $35,000. The event organizer, Cpl. Bob Beres, told the Post and Courier at the time that more than 200 people participated, including windows and family members of those lost.

"I strongly believe that this common vision is at the foundation of all great organizations. The dedication of this monument today captures the very essence of that teamwork in action,” said SCDPS Director Leroy Smith, at the ceremony. "Today, we honor our heroes. Some of them gave their lives during a traffic stop. Some of them lost their lives by a cold-blooded act. All of them deserve this fitting tribute."