Saluda County Community Grieves the Loss of Two Dedicated Firefighters
In a stunning turn of events, the town of Saluda County, S.C. is reeling after the tragic deaths of two beloved volunteer firefighters, Chief Chad Satcher and Firefighter Landon Bodie. Just as the community was beginning to navigate the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, they were dealt another blow with the loss of these brave rescuers who dedicated their lives to serving others.
A Heartbreaking Loss
On Monday, we caught up with local residents and community members who closely knew and worked alongside these servicemen. The overall sentiment was one of deep sorrow and profound respect for the sacrifices made by Satcher and Bodie. Josh Morton, the emergency management director for Saluda County, shared, “To also have this massive storm that has come in and hit us, we’re trying to deal with the effects of that on top of having these two losses, and it’s just been an absolutely devastating week for this community all around.”
These words reflect the pain felt by many. The loss of two dedicated individuals during such challenging times weighs heavily on the hearts of everyone in the community.
Support from Nearby Fire Departments
Since the tragedy unfolded on Friday, Lexington County Fire Service has been stepping up to help cover shifts for the Circle Fire Department. They have mobilized crews of 2-3 firefighters to ensure that the needs of the community are still met while honoring the memory of Satcher and Bodie. Josh Frye, the fire chief from Batesburg-Leesville, noted, “It has just been an outpouring of support. The firefighter mobilization has been activated to try to get some stations covered for Saluda County for the services over what I would assume to be over the weekend.”
This collaboration among fire departments is a testament to the unity and camaraderie in emergency services. The firefighters from surrounding areas are stepping in, showcasing their dedication to the community during its time of need.
Funeral Arrangements
Preparations are underway for bidding farewell to these heroes. According to the Saluda County fire coordinator, Chief Satcher and Firefighter Bodie will be transported from Newberry County Memorial Hospital to Milton Shealy Funeral Home on Tuesday morning. The memorial service for Chief Satcher is scheduled for Saturday at 11 a.m. at the Batesburg-Leesville High School Fine Arts Center. As for Firefighter Bodie, details of his funeral service are still being coordinated.
Remembering Their Legacy
Chief Satcher was known for his leadership and dedication, while Firefighter Bodie was noted for his promising beginnings in the service. Current and former fire chiefs have expressed their sorrow over losing such valuable members of the firefighting family. One fire chief mentioned, “I understand he had just gotten on, but still yet, just a huge loss to the community. Everybody I have heard say anything about him is just nothing but good stuff.”
Jay Hendrix, a former chief, sums it up perfectly: “[Satcher] was just an easy-going guy. He wasn’t loud and boisterous. He’d throw some jokes in there every now and then, but he was just a laid-back guy who was never the center of attention but was always that solid person that was going to be there to take care of his friends and family and his community.”
Conclusion
As Saluda County faces the aftermath of both nature’s fury and personal loss, the community comes together to honor the memory of these two dedicated firefighters. Their unwavering commitment to service and courage in the face of danger will not be forgotten. The community is united in grief yet determined to celebrate lives that were devoted to helping others. In times of hardship, we often find our greatest strengths, and in this moment, the spirit of Saluda County shines brightly.
