Darlington, S.C. Comes Together for a Noble Cause
In a heartfelt ceremony held at the iconic Darlington Raceway, the community gathered to support a meaningful mission that honors the legacy of fallen heroes. On Wednesday afternoon, the Terrence Carraway Foundation received a generous check for $14,000, bringing them closer to their goal of creating a memorial for all law enforcement officers in South Carolina who have given their lives in the line of duty.
A Meaningful Presentation
The presentation took place at the start/finish line of the renowned Track Too Tough to Tame, where Track President Josh Harris and title sponsor Barry Brown of Brown’s RVs proudly handed over the check to Allison Carraway, the widow of the late Sgt. Terrence Carraway. This moment was not just about the funds raised; it was about the love and respect the community continually shows to those who serve and protect.
“It always gives me a warm fuzzy to know the family of Darlington Raceway is supportive,” Allison reflected. “Everyone that participated has made this happen, and each year, it has grown and grown,” she added with a smile.
A Legacy Remembered
The funds raised during the ceremony stemmed from the annual Terrence Carraway Memorial 5K, which has quickly become a beloved event over the Labor Day weekend. This year marked the sixth year of the race, and it turned out to be a record success, with 376 participants. Since its inception, the 5K has collectively raised more than $65,000 for the Terrence F. Carraway Memorial Foundation.
Josh Harris expressed gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to such an important foundation. “The memory of Sgt. Terrence Carraway is one we hold and value closely,” he said. “We’re grateful to help Allison and the Terrence Carraway Memorial Foundation in continuing to honor his legacy and bring the Pee Dee Region closer together.”
Remembering a Hero
For those who may not know, on October 3, 2018, the Florence and Darlington community faced a tragic loss when Sgt. Terrence F. Carraway was fatally shot while assisting fellow deputies. A dedicated public servant, Carraway not only served the Florence Police Department for 30 years but also spent 23 years in the U.S. Air Force. Beyond his badge, he was a mentor and coach who made a lasting impact at Darlington Middle School and Darlington High School from 2005 to 2011.
A Commitment to Service
As president of the Terrence F. Carraway Memorial Foundation, Allison Carraway dedicated the foundation’s work to embodying her late husband’s spirit of service. “Service was his number one priority, and that’s what we continue to do,” she shared. Looking ahead, she laid out ambitious plans for the next 5K event scheduled for August 28, 2025, hoping to attract 500 participants to the Southern 500 race. “All proceeds will go to the South Carolina Fallen Officers Memorial,” she explained, emphasizing the importance of this mission.
With each step taken in support of the foundation, they move closer to their goal of completing the memorial by the end of next year. As Barry Brown eloquently stated, “We are proud to be a part of an event like this. It’s a blessing to have people in our community that put service above self, just as Sgt. Carraway did in 2018.”
A Vibrant Community Spirit
The event showcased not just the remarkable resilience of the community but also a profound sense of unity. As the crowd dispersed, the warmth felt among all present signified a commitment that goes beyond words—a commitment to honoring those who bravely serve and to fostering a future that reflects their courage.
The Terrence Carraway Memorial Foundation continues to inspire, reminding us all of the heroes who work tirelessly to keep our communities safe. With the support of residents and local businesses like Brown’s RVs, their dream of a lasting memorial is steadily becoming a reality, celebrating a legacy of love, service, and remembrance.
