Remembering a Hero: Trooper George Radford’s Legacy Honored in Florence County
In Florence County, South Carolina, a heartwarming ceremony took place on Friday, November 16, 2024, forever etching the name of Trooper First Class George Radford into the very walls of the Troop 5, Post B headquarters. This poignant moment came 36 years after Radford tragically lost his life in the line of duty, a lasting tribute to a man whose bravery and dedication set an example for all.
A Proud Tradition of Service
George Radford wasn’t just a trooper; he was a decorated veteran, having served in Vietnam and earning a Purple Heart for his courage. After returning home, Radford spent a significant 16 years serving with the state highway patrol, embodying the spirit of public service with pride and integrity. His daughter, Cassie Radford, reflected on her father’s life, recalling, “It was an honor for him to be a trooper. He exuded a sense of strength, kindness, and compassion. My dad loved the Highway Patrol, and he died doing exactly what he wanted to do.”
A Fateful Night
But on that fateful night of October 29, 1988, everything changed. Radford stopped a vehicle driven by Warren Douglas Manning for a defective headlight on Highway 34. After issuing a ticket, he learned Manning’s license was suspended. Manning was allowed to leave his vehicle, and then the unimaginable happened—a desperate plea for help was made but went unheard by dispatchers.
While Radford’s wife anxiously awaited his return home, around midnight, Manning made a shocking decision to drive away. Shortly after, Radford’s patrol car was found submerged in Reedy Creek Pond, revealing a devastating scene that shook the community to its core. He had been pistol-whipped and shot, and an investigation led to a series of troubling discoveries, including his summons book that bore Manning’s name as the last person he had ticketed.
A Legacy of Courage
The saga that followed was heart-wrenching. Manning was initially convicted of murder, only to be exonerated years later after a lengthy series of trials that revealed a flawed justice system. The community was left stunned, mourning the loss of Radford while grappling with the complexities of the case.
A Tribute to Remember
Fast forward to 2024, during the renaming ceremony at Troop 5 headquarters, state Department of Public Safety Director Robert G. Woods IV spoke eloquently about Radford’s sacrifices. He stated, “Prominently displaying Trooper First Class Radford’s name on this brick building is a lasting tribute to an honorable man, and a reassurance to his family that his memory, his service, and his sacrifice will not be forgotten.” This dedication of Radford’s name on the building marks a significant step in acknowledging the bravery and dedication he exhibited as a trooper.
The emotional gathering was not just a remembrance, but a reconnection for the family, friends, and the community that widely recognized Radford as a symbol of courage and duty. It served as a powerful reminder that while his physical presence may be gone, his legacy continues to shine brightly in the hearts of many.
Honoring the Fallen
Today, as we look back on Radford’s life and his ultimate sacrifice, it reinforces the idea that heroes can exist in everyday life. They leave lasting impacts on their communities, inspiring future generations to serve and protect. In Florence County and beyond, Trooper First Class George Radford will always be remembered as more than just a name; he embodies the true spirit of law enforcement, and his legacy is now embedded into the very fabric of the Highway Patrol.
