SC Troopers Association, SC Highway Patrol hold inaugural Henry C. Harrison Humanitarian Award Gala

Mon, 07/29/2024

Media: Photos from the event can be found here:Henry C. Harrison Award Gala photo album.

GREENVILLE - The SC Troopers Association, in partnership with the SC Highway Patrol, held the inaugural Henry C. Harrison Humanitarian Award Gala on Friday, July 26, in Greenville. The ceremony recognized a South Carolina Highway Patrol trooper with the Henry C. Harrison Humanitarian Award, with special remarks provided by Governor Henry McMaster, SC Senate President Thomas Alexander, SC Supreme Court Chief Justice-Elect John Kittredge, and former Representative Fletcher Smith, SC House of Representatives.

"South Carolina's state troopers exemplify the very best qualities of our state's law enforcement," Governor McMaster said. "These individuals regularly take extra steps to connect with and improve their communities, often outside their working hours and duties, not because they were asked to do so, but because they care. I am inspired by their efforts, and it is my hope that their work continues to inspire their colleagues and the public alike."

The Henry C. Harrison Humanitarian Award honors the late Henry C. Harrison, a retired patrol sergeant for the SC Highway Patrol who was highly respected in his community and well known for his humanitarian efforts. Among his many accomplishments, he was named SC Highway Patrol Trooper of the Year in 1967 and received the prestigious Order of the Palmetto from Governor David Beasley in 1998 for his work and contributions to South Carolina.

After his passing in 2021, the award was developed through a joint effort between Chief Judge James E. Lockemy; Colonel Christopher Williamson, Commander of the SC Highway Patrol; Mark Gosnell, Executive Director of the SC Troopers Association; Sergeant Harrison's family and many mutual friends, to celebrate his life and legacy. It recognizes a state trooper for outstanding dedication and selfless service to making a difference in the lives of others.

"This is a very special occasion as we gather to remember and honor retired Sergeant Henry C. Harrison, who was a great trooper, an outstanding public servant, and simply a good human being," Colonel Williamson said. "And as we remember him, we honor his legacy by recognizing these troopers who are dedicated to making a positive impact on those around them, through their acts of kindness and humanity. I am especially proud of them for the hard work they do - on the job, and off the job - to make a difference."

The Henry C. Harrison Humanitarian Award was awarded to Trooper First Class Dejuan L. Warren. Warren was nominated for his service as a trooper, as well as his work in his local community, where he spends time helping his church as a Courtesy Officer and a mentor to children there. Additionally, he is responsible for creating the 9/11 Remembrance Walk in Kershaw County. Beginning in 2020, the walk brings together agencies, businesses, and others from the community to remember those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001, and raise money to benefit the Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation.

"The SC Troopers Association has a mission to support and represent the interests of all troopers and officers of the South Carolina Department of Public Safety," Executive Director Gosnell said. "This ceremony is a way we can come together to not only show our appreciation of the Highway Patrol and remember Henry's life and legacy, but to recognize outstanding state troopers who embody the spirit of selfless service. It is truly an honor to present Trooper First Class Dejuan L. Warren with this award for his tireless efforts and contributions."

The following is a complete list of nominees for the award.
*Indicates award recipient

• Trooper First Class Dejuan L. Warren, Troop 1*
• Lieutenant Russell Thompson (retired), Troop 3
• Corporal William K. Safford, Troop 7
• Sergeant Matthew Southern, Troop 10

All proceeds from the event support the SC Troopers Association Foundation, which provides support and benefits to the spouses and family members of troopers killed in the line of duty. The foundation also supports local communities by partnering with corporate sponsors and civic organizations to promote programs, projects, and donations that assist citizens in need and foster an environment of trust and cooperation among the public, private organizations, and law enforcement. To learn more, please visit: https://www.sctroopers.org/sctaf/.

The South Carolina Department of Public Safety includes the Highway Patrol, State Transport Police, Bureau of Protective Services, Office of Highway Safety and Justice Programs, and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Officers Hall of Fame. Our mission is to ensure public safety by protecting and serving the people of South Carolina and its visitors.