‘Service Above Self’: Rotary Club honors law enforcement officers

The dinner, held at the Orangeburg Country Club, highlighted the efforts of public servants from local law enforcement agencies.

Those honored were:

• Orangeburg Department of Public Safety Sgt. Delores Felder-Edmonds – law enforcement division

• Orangeburg County Sheriff’s Office Lt. Jervey Ayers

• Orangeburg County Sheriff’s Office Sgt. Raquan Brown

• South Carolina Highway Patrol Troop 7, Post B Cpl. Marco Gressette

ODPS Lt. Billy Morton, who was not in attendance, will be honored at a later date.

Felder-Edmonds

ODPS Chief Charles P. Austin, Sr. described Edmonds as, “one of the most tenacious people I’ve ever worked with or worked around.”

He also commended Edmonds for her ability to excel in multiple roles.

“The thing that I really appreciate about her is how she is able to transcend her roles. For example, if she’s focused on working a case, then she’s laser-focused on that case. When she’s involved in community activities, she’s laser-focused on that. She does that without compromising the integrity of either function,” Austin said.

Edmonds led a summer camp for Orangeburg youth called Mentoring Matters. With the help of her team, Edmonds was able to recruit 23 children. The goal of the camp was to develop a positive relationship with law enforcement.

Edmonds has been with ODPS for 18 years. She currently serves as a white-collar crime investigator and as the department’s liaison to public housing.

Ayers and Brown

Ayers and Brown were recognized for their heroic actions when they rescued a man from a sinking vehicle on Feb. 8.

While working their shift, the two received a call that someone’s vehicle ran into a river. They arrived at the scene and immediately took action, Sheriff Leroy Ravenell said.

“Ayers and Brown jumped on the hood of the vehicle as it was taking water, knocked the window out and pulled the guy to safety,” Ravenell said.

Ravenell applauded the men for their bravery and selflessness.

“And they even finished their shift that night. So, from myself, and everybody here, thank you all so much for what you do.”

Gressette was honored for his life-saving efforts in October 2023. As he travelled down Magnolia Street, Gressette was flagged down by bystanders. At the scene he observed an unconscious, unresponsive man.

“His instincts as a first responder kicked in,” Capt. Joseph C. Elliot said.

“In that moment he personified his highest ideals of public service and human compassion.”

With the help of good Samaritans, Gressette was able to remove the man from the vehicle and administer CPR.

His efforts kept the man alive. The gentleman passed from his medical condition a few days later.

Gressette serves in the U.S. Navy Reserves and is an 11-year veteran. He has been in law enforcement for six years.

Rotary honors

Several Rotary Club of Orangeburg Morning members were also recognized during the award dinner.

Sandra Bethune was recognized as the Rotarian of the Year.

“She stepped right in when our former secretary had to resign. She volunteered and stepped right in. She’s really known for asking if you have tickets. She’s queen of the ticket sales,” President Carolyn Snell said.

Patricia Salley was honored as a Paul Harris Fellow for her service and dedication to the community.

Her recognition was part of the Rotary’s Club tradition of acknowledging those that make outstanding contributions.

The club also installed its 2024-2025 executive committee. The members are:

• President: Patricia Salley

• President-elect: Albert Black

• Secretary: Sandra Bethune

• Treasurer: Melissa Cain

Board members-at-large for the upcoming year are the Rev. Dr. James Cattenhead, Devon Gilmore, Michelle Holbrook, Dr. Thomas J. Cassidy (foundation chair) and Brenda Austin (membership chair).

The Rotary Club of Orangeburg Morning presented donations to several organizations, including Into the Mouths of Babes, Orangeburg Area Boys and Girls Club, Orangeburg County Council on Aging and The Samaritan House.