News Summary
The Spartanburg Police Department held a solemn ceremony to commemorate Peace Officers Memorial Day, honoring fallen officers who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty. The event recognized Patrolman William Harold Frey, Patrolman Thomas ‘Fox’ Abrams, and Master Patrol Officer Jason Gregory Harris, highlighting their dedication to law enforcement and the community. Police Chief Alonzo Thompson and Mayor Jerome Rice shared heartfelt words of remembrance, emphasizing the importance of honoring the sacrifices made by law enforcement professionals. This observance coincided with similar events nationwide, reflecting a deep appreciation for those who serve and protect.
Spartanburg, SC – The Spartanburg Police Department held a solemn ceremony on May 15, 2025, to commemorate Peace Officers Memorial Day, honoring the memory of fallen officers and recognizing their sacrifices in protecting the community. The ceremony featured a moment of silence, a wreath-laying tribute, and remarks from the police chief.
The event specifically honored three officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty: Patrolman William Harold Frey, Patrolman Thomas “Fox” Abrams, and Master Patrol Officer Jason Gregory Harris. Each officer’s service and the circumstances of their deaths were highlighted during the ceremony, underlining their dedication and commitment to law enforcement in Spartanburg.
Police Chief Alonzo Thompson led the ceremony, delivering poignant remarks interspersed with scripture that resonated with the audience. The emphasis was on remembrance and gratitude for the sacrifices made by the officers who gave their lives while serving their community. Following Thompson’s speech, a wreath-laying ceremony took place, serving as a symbolic gesture of respect and honor for the fallen officers.
Mayor Jerome Rice was also present at the ceremony and expressed deep appreciation for the courage and sacrifices made by the officers on behalf of the Spartanburg community. His acknowledgment served as a reminder of the invaluable role that law enforcement plays in ensuring the safety and security of residents.
Honoring Fallen Officers
During the observance, Patrolman William Harold Frey was remembered for his courageous act on June 20, 1942, when he was killed while pursuing a suspected drunken driver. Frey left behind a wife and three children, and his legacy continues to resonate within the community.
Similarly, Patrolman Thomas “Fox” Abrams, who was shot on January 7, 1962, while responding to a disturbance, was recognized as possibly the first Black officer hired by the Spartanburg Police Department. His service and the challenges he faced highlighted the evolving landscape of law enforcement during his time.
Lastly, Master Patrol Officer Jason Gregory Harris was honored for his untimely death on April 13, 2017, due to injuries sustained in a motorcycle crash while responding to a breaking-and-entering call. His dedication exemplified the risks that law enforcement personnel accept daily when serving the public.
Wider Commemoration
The ceremony in Spartanburg coincided with similar events across the country, as May 15 was designated as Peace Officers Memorial Day by Congress on October 1, 1962. This day is set aside each year to honor law enforcement professionals who have died in the line of duty.
In a related observance, the Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office held a separate wreath-laying ceremony earlier in the week. This event acknowledged the sacrifices of 18 law enforcement officers who have also died in the line of duty, enhancing the community’s overall recognition of the risks faced by officers throughout history.
Conclusion
As the ceremony concluded, the Spartanburg Police Department reinforced its commitment to honor and remember those who have fallen while serving the community. The tributes paid to Officers Frey, Abrams, and Harris were a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by law enforcement personnel and the importance of remembering their contributions to public safety.
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Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Spartanburg Fallen Police Officers Honored
- Wikipedia: Peace Officers Memorial Day
- WSPA: String of Car Break-Ins Reported in Spartanburg
- Google Search: Spartanburg Peace Officers Memorial Day
- Fox Carolina: Man Injured in Drive-By Shooting Spartanburg
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Law Enforcement
- WIS: Church Daycare Employee Caught on Video Throwing Toddler
- Google News: Spartanburg Police News
Author: STAFF HERE SPARTANBURG
The SPARTANBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESpartanburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Spartanburg, Spartanburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spartanburg International Festival, Spartanburg ArtWalk, and motorsport events at Spartanburg Speedway. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Spartanburg Area Chamber of Commerce and the Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System Foundation, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and textiles that power the local economy such as BMW Manufacturing and Milliken & Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
