Forestry Commission personnel held a brief ceremony dedicating the new Fallen Wildland Firefighter Memorial at Headquarters in Columbia April 27.
The memorial off Broad River Road pays tribute to the agency wildland firefighters who gave their lives in the line of duty in South Carolina and honors their sacrifice in protecting lives, property and forestland.
The names inscribed in granite at the memorial include:
- Cecil A. Griggs – December 4, 1970
- Otis Wilkes – December 4, 1970
- Monroe Wilkes – December 4, 1970
- Clarence R. Malphrus – May 30, 1949
- William E. Goude – January 19, 1981
- Homer M. Cook – March 21, 1988
Also included at the memorial is a plaque with a quote, reading:
In honor of the wildland firefighters who gave their lives in the line of duty in South Carolina.
Their sacrifice in protecting lives, property and forestland reminds us that this noble and perilous work demands vigilance and courage.
May God bless these fallen firefighters, watch over their families and give strength to all who protect others.
Scott Phillips, State Forester
Thank you to everyone, particularly our retirees and cooperators, who attended and participated in this dedication ceremony.
