News Summary

The South Carolina Department of Transportation honored employees lost in the line of duty during its annual Workers Memorial ceremony in Columbia. This year’s event remembered Jerad Devin Rose, adding his name to the memorial wall, which now honors 93 employees. SCDOT leadership highlighted the importance of worker safety and the sacrifices made by the agency’s staff as they maintain crucial infrastructure across the state.

Columbia

The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) held its annual Workers Memorial ceremony on April 29, 2025, to honor the employees who have lost their lives while serving the state. The ceremony took place at 10 a.m. outside SCDOT Headquarters on Park Street in downtown Columbia, South Carolina.

This year, the event recognized Jerad Devin Rose of Dorchester Surveys, who tragically died while on duty on February 18, 2025. Rose’s name was officially added to the SCDOT memorial wall, which now lists a total of 93 employees who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

SCDOT Secretary of Transportation Justin Powell, along with other officials, delivered speeches to commemorate the occasion. Their addresses emphasized the significant contributions made by these employees and highlighted the ongoing commitment of SCDOT to ensure safety for its workers and the public. The ceremony included heartfelt reflections on the impact of each employee lost within the agency.

The Workers Memorial ceremony is a longstanding tradition for SCDOT, serving to spotlight the sacrifices made by its workforce. SCDOT employs over 4,000 individuals who are responsible for the vital task of maintaining over 41,000 miles of road across the state, emphasizing the importance of dedication and service within the agency.

The memorial wall stands as a solemn reminder of the risks associated with working in transportation and infrastructure maintenance. As the agency continues to evolve, it remains committed to honoring the memory of those who have served selflessly. The day’s events provided an opportunity for colleagues, friends, and family to come together in remembrance and support.

In attendance were numerous employees past and present, emphasizing a sense of community within SCDOT. The ceremony also reflected a moment of unity as attendees shared a collective resolve to uphold safety standards and practices. The importance of creating a safe working environment for all employees can not be overstated, as SCDOT continually seeks to mitigate risks associated with road maintenance and infrastructure development.

Historically, SCDOT has recognized employees who have passed away not only during their service but also from natural causes, dating back to the 1920s. This broad scope of remembrance illustrates the agency’s commitment to honoring all individuals who have contributed to its mission, regardless of the circumstances surrounding their passing.

As an essential component of South Carolina’s infrastructure, SCDOT’s workforce plays a critical role in ensuring that roads and highways are safe and navigable for the public. The annual Workers Memorial ceremony serves as a poignant reminder of the essential work these individuals perform daily, often under challenging conditions. By acknowledging the sacrifices made by past employees, SCDOT reinforces its dedication to the well-being of both current staff and the citizens they serve.

Overall, the event underscored the importance of community, safety, and remembrance, affirming SCDOT’s values and the enduring legacy of its employees. With heartfelt tributes and shared memories, the Workers Memorial ceremony continues to foster a spirit of camaraderie and respect among all who serve within the department.

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Additional Resources

• ABC Columbia
• Wikipedia: South Carolina Department of Transportation
• ABC News 4
• Google Search: SCDOT Workers Memorial ceremony
• WIS TV
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Memorial

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