Efficient, Compassionate Legal Assistance for Probate Matters
Probate Lawyer in Travelers Rest, SC
If there's one thing that most families can agree on, it's that losing a loved one is tough. It's a grief-stricken time often filled with sleepless nights and free-flowing tears. Between notifying friends, planning funeral services, and working through your own emotions, the thought of Estate Administration is the last thing on your mind. But you know something must be done. You feel obligated to do something about your family member's estate but aren't sure how to proceed or when to do it. You're probably wrestling with hard-to-answer questions like:
- What Happens with My Loved One's Estate?
- What Happens During the Estate Administration Process?
- How Long Will It Take?
- Do I Receive Compensation for My Time?
- What State is Probate Taking Place?
That's where Cobb Hammett comes in - to help guide you through the complicated processes of probate court in South Carolina. Because the truth is, probate can be confusing and intimidating if you're ill-equipped to deal with the court's procedures and inner workings. There is legal paperwork to draft and file, petitions to publish, notices to serve, bonds to file, and a long list of rules that you must adhere to during this time. With a probate lawyer in Travelers Rest, SC, by your side, however, you can rest easy knowing your loved one's assets are protected, and their legacy is legally preserved.
What is a Probate Attorney in Travelers Rest, SC?
When someone passes away, their assets have to be distributed according to South Carolina state laws and the directions in their Will. Your probate lawyer will be a significant source of help in this regard, as they will guide an executor of a Will or Beneficiaries of an estate through the often-confusing probate process. From identifying notating estate assets to distributing inheritances, your probate attorney is a crucial partner during this difficult time in your life.
At Cobb Hammett, our probate attorneys understand that when a client's loved one dies, they need a caring presence by their side. But they also need a confident source of knowledge that can act on their behalf as they grieve. That's why, given the complex nature of probate law, it's a good idea to have a trusted attorney on call who can settle an estate and handle the nuanced issues that arise in probate court.
- Walk You Through the Aspects of Your Probate Case
- Prepare and File All Necessary Paperwork by the Mandated Deadlines
- Help You Stay Abreast of Requirements and Responsibilities
- Identify Estate Assets
- Help Pay Debts and Bills
- Transfer Assets to the Appropriate Parties
- Assist with Estate Disputes
- Resolve Income Tax Issues
- Advise You of Your Rights
- Remain Prepared and Organized to Help Reduce Your Stress
Administering a decedent's estate can be a long, arduous process. That's especially true if disputes are involved with Beneficiaries. When you consider the chances of being held liable for decisions you make as a Personal Representative of an Estate, working with a probate lawyer from Cobb Hammett Law Firm just makes good sense.
About The Cobb Hammett Law Firm Difference
As seasoned probate lawyers in South Carolina, we understand that Estate Administration often involves sensitive family dynamics as much as it does the legal minutia involved in probate law. After all, a person's estate not only affects their generation but the generations that follow.
But when your loved one passes, their assets must be managed and distributed correctly. When mismanaged, disputes often arise between parties like the Beneficiaries, Trustees, Heirs, or Executors of a Will. Even when everything is managed the right way, arguments and misunderstandings can still occur, and even evolve into bitter legal battles necessitating probate litigation.
It stands to reason, then, that you should hire a probate lawyer in Travelers Rest, SC to help. But the truth is, many attorneys don't have vast experience with probate and trust work. If they do, they aren't usually seasoned trial attorneys. That's what separates probate attorneys at Cobb Hammett, LLC from others - we have the ability to help plan your Estate and litigate estate disputes if they arise.
We are keenly familiar with local probate judges, courtroom staff members, and the related procedures involved with South Carolina probate law. Our intimate knowledge and experience help us successfully navigate the probate process to complete our client's cases quickly and efficiently.
But that's just one aspect that sets Cobb Hammett apart from other firms. Understanding the importance of personalized attention, we also make an intentional decision to limit our law firm's overall caseload. This allows us to better focus on individual clients, many of whom remain with us for generations. We do not pass off cases to paralegals or junior associates but rather prioritize the attorney-client relationship. We value compassion and integrity, and our practice reflects those values.
Moreover, trust is one of the most important aspects of the attorney-client relationship. We work to create an open, friendly environment in which you can feel comfortable. After years of experience, we boast the skill and experience necessary to earn that trust - and that's a priceless commodity when it comes to probate cases in South Carolina.
Our attorneys love probate and estate-related legal services, including but not limited to the following:
Estate Administration
When our probate lawyers assist with Estate Administration, our team prioritizes efficacy and efficiency to ensure all tasks are accomplished correctly and on time. That way, our clients endure less stress while looking good in front of family members.
Estate Disputes and Litigation Cases
When an Estate is disputed and requires litigation, Cobb Hammett probate attorneys fight to win on our client's behalf. From holding unfaithful Executors accountable to contesting Wills, our team searches for the best way to achieve our client's goals.
Trust Administration
Things get more complicated in probate cases where Trusts are involved. To ensure that the terms of the Trust are met and handled correctly, our team works closely with clients to advise them on how to proceed.
Trust Disputes and Litigation Cases
Every Trust is different. By proxy, every Trust dispute must be handled in a unique manner. After a careful analysis of the Trust and South Carolina law, our team will determine the best strategy to achieve our client's goals.
Understanding The Probate Process in South Carolina
When a loved one passes away, it's natural to go through a time of emotional adjustment. However, it's crucial for the family of the loved one to face the financial realities of their estate. That reality includes the probate process, which involves distributing assets and settling the estate. A probate attorney in Travelers Rest, SC is often recommended to assist during this time. This process isn't just recommended - it's often a legal responsibility in South Carolina.
Steps to the Probate Process in South Carolina
Delivery of Will Upon Death: During probate, the first step involves having a will delivered to an Estate Administrator or to the probate court. The deadline to accomplish this task is 30 days.
A Personal Representative is Assigned: This individual is often named in a Will and should be appointed officially by the court.
A Notice is Sent to Intestate Heirs: If these heirs feel that they should inherit, they have a right to challenge this step.
The Estate is Inventoried and Appraised: This process must occur within 90 days of opening an estate. In some estates with valuables like jewelry, art, and property, professional appraisers may be needed.
Settling Accounts: During this step, the estate must pay any applicable taxes, ongoing expenses, or outstanding debts. Should the estate not have enough money to pay these debts, creditors must be paid according to South Carolina code.
Distributions: If there is money in the estate after debts are paid, those funds are given to heirs of the estate, according to the Will or the State.
Discharge: As soon as any claims are paid, the personal representative of the estate will file documents to close the estate. To make this official, the court will issue a Certificate of Discharge.
Avoiding Probate in South Carolina
Though most estates in South Carolina must go through probate, it is possible to avoid. This happens when a decedent's assets are placed in a Living Trust prior to their death. In this scenario, beneficiaries must be designated in order to inherit the estate. Suppose there are funds that have been promised to beneficiaries via life insurance policies or bank accounts with "payable upon death" designations. In that case, those funds do not have to go through probate.
Assets subject to probate in South Carolina include:
- Interest in an LLC, Partnership, or Corporation
- Real Estate Held as a Tenant in Common
- Property Held in Only the Deceased's Name
Assets that are not subject to probate in South Carolina include:
- Assets Placed in a Trust
- Assets Which Are Already Tied to a Beneficiary
- Pension Plan Assets
- Insurance Policies with Beneficiaries
- Beneficiaries of Retirement Funds
- Real Estate or Property with Right of Survivorship
- Real Estate or Property with Joint Tenancy
- Accounts That Are Transferable or Payable Upon Death
Avoiding Probate: Yes or No?
Though it's not always possible, some families go out of their way to avoid the probate process in South Carolina. Doing so can help save money in the long run and also expedite the distribution of funds to heirs. By avoiding probate, you're also keeping personal matters private.
Because every person has different estate and probate complexities, it's hard to say whether avoiding probate is good or bad. Whether or not you should avoid probate depends on your unique situation. As a general rule, it's always best to consult with a probate lawyer in Travelers Rest, SC, for honest feedback and probate assistance.
Typically, having a Living Trust or a Will in place will make transferring assets easier. A little prep ahead of time will make a world of difference when your loved one passes away. After all, nobody is ever prepared for a relative or family friend's death, but a compassionate, trustworthy probate attorney can make the process easier.
FAQsSouth Carolina Probate FAQs
For many families, "Probate" is a dirty term that involves heartbreak and headaches. And while the probate process in South Carolina can be complex and stressful, having answers to some of the most common probate questions can help put your mind at ease.
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My family member recently passed away, and we're considering their estate. How long will the probate process take?
The time it takes an estate to go through probate in South Carolina varies depending on a number of questions, including:
- Does the deceased have a valid will?
- Is the Estate complex or large?
- Is the Will contested?
- Have any lawsuits been filed?
- Is the personal representative of the estate efficient?
When conditions are good, a small or simple estate usually takes about a year to close. More complicated estates may take longer.
My loved one mentioned opening a Trust to protect my assets. What is a Trust, and what Trusts should I consider?
As is the case with most probate decisions, opening a Trust should be based on your unique situation and guidance from your probate attorney in Travelers Rest, SC. With that said, a Trust is meant to hold property for your loved one's benefit. When a Trust is created, assets are transferred into the said Trust and managed accordingly. Though there is a common misconception that Trusts are reserved for the wealthy, just about any family can benefit from opening a Trust.
The most common types of Trusts used in probate include:
- Living Trust: These trusts are opened and controlled by you while you're still living. When you pass away, the assets in the trust are distributed to the beneficiaries you choose. Typically, these trusts do not go through the probate process.
- Testamentary Trust: These trusts are usually established after you pass away and are included in your will. These trusts must go through the probate process in South Carolina, though they allow for the distribution of property within a certain time frame.
- Special Needs Trust: This type of trust gives financial support to your loved one if they are disabled.
When conditions are good, a small or simple estate usually takes about a year to close. More complicated estates may take longer.
What happens when somebody dies without a will in South Carolina?
When a person passes away without a Will in South Carolina, the state decides who gets their decedent's assets. This is also called passing intestate. When this happens, usually only spouses, blood relatives, or registered domestic partners can inherit property according to intestate succession laws.
Relatives who receive the probate property of the deceased are usually chosen in the following order:
- Living Spouse
- Children or Grandchildren
- Parents
- Brothers or Sisters
- Grandparents
- Uncles and Aunts
- Extended Family
If you're in need of a veteran probate lawyer in South Carolina, look no further than Cobb Hammett Law Firm. With years of experience in Estate Administration and probate cases, our team is ready to serve you with excellence and protect your interests. Have additional questions? We're here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about Estate Administration in South Carolina.
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A Caring, Confident Approach to Probate in South Carolina
Planning your estate is the first step to take if you want to protect your family, your assets, your well-being, and the fruits of your hard work.
At Cobb Hammett, LLC, our team of experienced probate lawyers in Travelers Rest, SC, can help you navigate the entire Estate Administration process. Through creative legal strategies and a clear understanding of your goals and desires, we work together to make your asset and estate visions a reality. It's never too early to get your estate in order. In fact, estate planning is important for everyone, whether you're single or married, young or old, with or without children. If you're ready to protect your assets and be prepared for probate, contact Cobb Hammett, LLC, today.
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Latest News in Travelers Rest, SC
New fitness center at Upstate park to ‘encourage healthiness’: city leaders say
Simone Jamesonhttps://www.wspa.com/news/new-fitness-center-at-upstate-park-to-encourage-healthiness-city-leaders-say/
TRAVELERS REST, S.C. (WSPA) – An Upstate city wants to encourage people to be their healthiest with a new addition to an outdoor park. A plot of land toward the entrance of Gateway Park in Travelers Rest is slated for the site of a new fitness center, which city leaders said will have more than a dozen pieces of exercise equipment.Travelers Rest City Administrator Shannon Herman told 7NEWS the fitness center inside Gateway Park will feature resistance-training stations where people will be able to ride a bike, do bench presses, ...
TRAVELERS REST, S.C. (WSPA) – An Upstate city wants to encourage people to be their healthiest with a new addition to an outdoor park. A plot of land toward the entrance of Gateway Park in Travelers Rest is slated for the site of a new fitness center, which city leaders said will have more than a dozen pieces of exercise equipment.
Travelers Rest City Administrator Shannon Herman told 7NEWS the fitness center inside Gateway Park will feature resistance-training stations where people will be able to ride a bike, do bench presses, pull-ups and other exercises. Herman said visitors will be able to access the equipment for free at any time.
“More and more studies are coming out now that tell us that resistance training, muscle development are probably the secret to success for longevity of health and quality of health while we’re here on this earth,” said Herman. “So, this is an opportunity for folks to come up, either by car or by bike or by foot. And to really kind of have access to this…these high-quality materials that we know improve health.”
Herman explained it’s made possible through a nearly $250,000 grant Travelers Rest received from the nonprofit Healthy Greenville Too in November. Herman added that the amenity is part of an effort to increase foot traffic to Gateway Park, which they newly acquired from Greenville County leaders.
Herman’s hope is that people of all ages, both near and far, will take advantage of the new exercise haven, running right along the Swamp Rabbit Trail.
“This will be the only thing like this all the way up to the North Carolina border,” Herman also said. “So, we welcome our friends who sit to the north of us to come down, spend a day in town, get a workout in, you know, and then head back home as well. So we’re super, super excited about this new challenge.”
Herman went on to say the fitness park will be well-lit and include water-bottle filling stations. City leaders anticipate that construction will start in the summertime.
This Historical Town Just North Of Greenville Is South Carolina's Best-Kept Secret
Symiah Dorseyhttps://www.southernliving.com/travelers-rest-sc-11876936
A weekend getaway to South Carolina’s beloved Greenville is a cherished trip for many, but just north of Greenville is the smaller and perhaps more underrated town of Travelers Rest. Known as TR by locals, this town has a rich history rooted in its strategic location along historic trade routes. Travelers Rest earned its name as a resting spot for weary travelers journeying along the Old Buncombe Road (which linked North Carolina to Georgia). First came the Cherokee Native Americans, followed by livestock drovers, and then families see...
A weekend getaway to South Carolina’s beloved Greenville is a cherished trip for many, but just north of Greenville is the smaller and perhaps more underrated town of Travelers Rest. Known as TR by locals, this town has a rich history rooted in its strategic location along historic trade routes. Travelers Rest earned its name as a resting spot for weary travelers journeying along the Old Buncombe Road (which linked North Carolina to Georgia). First came the Cherokee Native Americans, followed by livestock drovers, and then families seeking relief from the summer heat in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
With ancient mountain ranges and historic trails, Travelers Rest truly gets more beautiful with age. Today, Travelers Rest still lives up to its name, serving as a haven for nature lovers, food enthusiasts, and those seeking adventure. Wherever you go in town, scenic views and good stories are never far. Here are 14 ways to make the most of your visit to TR.
What To Do In Travelers Rest, South Carolina
Travelers Rest is all about embracing life at a slower pace, so you might as well take the scenic route. Winding along Main Street, the Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail is a 22-mile greenway (it actually connects all the way to Greenville) following the former Greenville and Northern railroad line. Perfect for biking, walking, or running, this trail allows you to enjoy the beautiful views and peaceful surroundings as you soak in the town’s charm.
103 McDaniel Ave, Greenville, SC 29601
If panoramic mountain views and outdoor live music are your thing, spend a few hours at Trailblazer Park. This park is a vibrant cultural hub of Travelers Rest and is recognized as one of the best outdoor music venues in the state. With a giant open-air amphitheater, a covered pavilion that hosts the local farmers market, and plenty of open green spaces to relax, Trailblazer Park is an excellent way to enjoy the town from a local’s perspective.
235 Trailblazer Dr, Travelers Rest, SC 29690; 864-834-8740
The History Museum of Travelers Rest, operated by the Travelers Rest Historical Society, will give you a look into the town’s rich history as a resting spot for travelers. Here, you’ll learn about the influential men and women who’ve lived or passed through Travelers Rest over the years and observe a collection of local artifacts. You’ll want to plan your visit ahead of time, as the History Museum is only open on the weekends.
travelersresthistoricalsociety.org; 3 Edwards St, Travelers Rest, SC 29690; 864-835-7907
Stretching just 130 feet over Little Gap Creek, the Poinsett Bridge is believed to be the oldest surviving bridge in South Carolina. This 14-foot Gothic arch stone structure was named after Joel Poinsett, an American diplomat and prominent Greenville resident. Tourists who stop by are often pleasantly surprised to learn this bridge is part of the Poinsett Bridge Heritage Preserve, a park and protected area with nature trails well suited for hiking.
580 Callahan Mountain Rd, Landrum, SC 29356; 864-288-6470
There’s no better souvenir than the things grown and crafted by local artisans. The Travelers Rest Farmers Market, open every Saturday from May to September in the Trailblazer Park pavilion, features over 70 vendors, live music, food trucks, and more. The market is located right off the Swamp Rabbit Trail, so it’s the perfect excuse to stop for a treat after a long walk or bike ride.
travelersrestfarmersmarket.com; 235 Trailblazer Dr, Travelers Rest, SC 29690; 864-610-0965
If you can’t make the farmers market (or if you just love sunflowers), head to Beechwood Farms. At Beechwood, you can get a glimpse into large-scale farming, visit the farm animals, and shop the roadside market for local produce. If you visit between August and September, you will get to see Sunflower Hill in full bloom. You can even capture the moment by booking a sunflower photography session through the Beechwood Farms website.
Small towns often have some of the best coffee shops, and this one has a fun and artistic twist. This hip and colorful art cafe is a great spot to grab lunch and get creative. Just pick one of their paintable items and place your order at the register alongside your food. The café serves breakfast and lunch all day and features a full-service coffee bar. When you're finished, you'll leave with a unique, personalized memento of your visit to Travelers Rest.
27 S Main St, Travelers Rest, SC 29690; 864-610-2266
Picking season in Travelers Rest is not to be missed. Open daily except Mondays during the season, MacGregor Orchards lets you roll up your sleeves and fill up your basket with peaches, apples, plums, nectarines, figs, and more. While you’re there, savor the fresh apple cider, applesauce, apple butter, and a variety of fruit preserves made by the welcoming orchard owners.
macgregororchard.com; 2400 SC-11, Travelers Rest, SC 29690; 864-320-2778
Where To Eat & Drink In Travelers Rest, South Carolina
Start your day with a hearty, wholesome meal at Tandem Creperie and Coffeehouse. This brunch hotspot serves sweet and savory crepes, made from simple, fresh ingredients, along with a generous selection of coffee and tea. Its motto is “Together is Best," so this cozy, welcoming restaurant and its large crepes are meant to be shared. If crepes aren’t your thing, you can’t go wrong with their whole-wheat waffles or maple pecan granola.
tandemcc.com; 2 S Main St, Travelers Rest, SC 29690; 864-610-2245
If you've ever dreamed of an Italian getaway, Restaurant 17 offers the perfect little European escape. Specializing in Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, this swanky dinner spot is celebrated for its old-world charm and hospitality. Enjoy farm fresh cuisine and seasonal dishes, including the figs and prosciutto and the popular Duroc Pork Chop. Be sure to sit on the patio to enjoy the soothing sounds of an in-ground water fountain display and the majestic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, which are graced by colorful sunsets in the evening.
restaurant17.com; 10 Rd of Vines, Travelers Rest, SC 29690; 864-635-2948
If you’re looking for something casual yet filling, head downtown to Farmhouse Tacos. This charming rustic-modern restaurant specializes in farm-to-table Tex-Mex, serving hand-crafted tacos, quesadillas, burrito bowls, and a variety of specialty plates. True to its motto, "Made with love in Travelers Rest," the restaurant takes pride in using locally sourced ingredients, ensuring all dishes are fresh and flavorful. It’s also a great spot to unwind with specialty drinks and craft beers from Carolina-based brewers.
farmhousetacos.com; 164 South Main Street, Travelers Rest, SC 29690; 864-610-0586
Best known as Travelers Rest’s first craft brewery, this spot is a local favorite popular for its world-class selection of beers, with everything from pale ales to porters. With pet-friendly outdoor seating, a rotating lineup of food trucks, and a vibrant atmosphere featuring live music and trivia nights, even non-beer enthusiasts will find plenty to do. It's located just off the Swamp Rabbit Trail, so you’re likely to see a wave of cyclists stopping by after their rides. Just look for the giant rabbit mural on the side of the building, and you’ll know you’ve arrived.
theswamprabbitbrewery.com; 26 South Main Street, Travelers Rest, SC 29690; 864-610-2424
Where To Stay in Travelers Rest, South Carolina
Hotel Domestique, sitting in the countryside of Upstate South Carolina, redefines the boutique hotel experience. This peaceful retreat houses 13 elegantly-decorated rooms complimented by exposed stone walls and rustic hardwoods. Owned by world-renowned cyclist George Hincapie, the hotel also caters to cycling enthusiasts with guided rides, e-bikes, and an on-site mechanic. If you’re strictly in relaxation mode, you can always take a plunge in the saltwater pool or decompress inside the infrared sauna. Hotel Domestique is also the home of Restaurant 17, bringing the European countryside experience right to your backyard.
hoteldomestique.com; 10 Rd of Vines, Travelers Rest, SC 29690; 864-635-4268
The natural beauty of Travelers Rest deserves to be experienced up close. To stay in the heart of Travelers Rest, consider opting for luxury lodging along The Swamp Rabbit Trail. The Station by Compo Hotels is an eco-friendly collection of modern vacation cottages equipped with everything you need for a staycation: a washer/dryer, kitchen, portable stove, and more. Enjoy your morning cup of coffee on the private patio as you watch locals and fellow travelers pass by on the trail.
compohotels.com; 745 Old Buncombe Rd, Travelers Rest, SC 29690; 864-768-3359
Gold Line of Swamp Rabbit Trail officially opens
Myra Ruizhttps://www.foxcarolina.com/2025/12/19/gold-line-swamp-rabbit-trail-officially-opens/
TRAVELERS REST, S.C. (FOX Carolina) - A new section of the Swamp Rabbit Trail network officially opened Friday, connecting the main stretch of the trail system.The Gold Line, previously known as the TR Greenway is a two-mile paved path with its trailhead near the entrance to Travelers Rest High School. It extends through a couple of residential neighborhoods to the Travelers Rest YMCA.The Upstate Greenways and Trails Alliance (UGATA) started working on the project several years ago.“This has been a labor of love fr...
TRAVELERS REST, S.C. (FOX Carolina) - A new section of the Swamp Rabbit Trail network officially opened Friday, connecting the main stretch of the trail system.
The Gold Line, previously known as the TR Greenway is a two-mile paved path with its trailhead near the entrance to Travelers Rest High School. It extends through a couple of residential neighborhoods to the Travelers Rest YMCA.
The Upstate Greenways and Trails Alliance (UGATA) started working on the project several years ago.
“This has been a labor of love from a lot of people in the community,” said Matt Hudson-Flege, UGATA executive director. “We’re thrilled to open.”
Planning and construction
UGATA first worked to gain support from local residents and leaders for the trail vision.
Four property owners donated easements to allow public access to the trail.
The organization then raised funds for initial design and permitting before securing construction partners.
Work crews broke ground in May 2024, but Hurricane Helene later delayed construction.
“We had a great contractor, Foothills Contracting, who made this trail happen,” Hudson-Flege said. “And it’s a really high-quality trail that I think people are going to love.”
Future expansion plans
UGATA plans to extend the Gold Line beyond its current length. The organization hopes to connect it to the Saluda Confluence Recreation Area, a hiking and mountain biking area on the Saluda River several miles west of Travelers Rest.
Eventually, UGATA wants to connect the trail to Pickens County and the Doodle Trail.
“We’re really excited to connect more neighborhoods and amenities to the trail network,” Hudson-Flege said.
Benefits of trail network
Hudson-Flege said Greenville County Schools continue to work with UGATA to provide more property for future trail projects.
Next month, construction is expected to begin on a trail in Fountain Inn that will connect Bryson Elementary and Fountain Inn High School to the Swamp Rabbit Trail network.
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Narrative: The Vietnam War through the eyes of an 18-year-old soldier
Linda Núñezhttps://www.southcarolinapublicradio.org/show/narrative/2025-11-13/narrative-the-vietnam-war-through-the-eyes-of-an-18-year-old-soldier
After three months of explosive ordnance and heavy equipment training by the U.S. Army, 18-year-old Roger Thompson arrived for duty in Vietnam in March of 1968. During his service, he witnessed firsthand the terrors of war, which inspired his lifetime mission of helping fellow veterans who struggle with both the physical and mental effects of combat.In 2021, Thompson and his friend, Kym Klapperich, both of Travelers Rest, sat down to discuss his experience with StoryCorps, a national initiative to record and collect stories of everyda...
After three months of explosive ordnance and heavy equipment training by the U.S. Army, 18-year-old Roger Thompson arrived for duty in Vietnam in March of 1968. During his service, he witnessed firsthand the terrors of war, which inspired his lifetime mission of helping fellow veterans who struggle with both the physical and mental effects of combat.
In 2021, Thompson and his friend, Kym Klapperich, both of Travelers Rest, sat down to discuss his experience with StoryCorps, a national initiative to record and collect stories of everyday people. This excerpt was selected and produced by Linda Nunez.
TRANSCRIPT:
Thompson: When I arrived there, one of the first duties I had, they asked for volunteers to help load a military plane, a C-130 transport that was going back to the United States. Me and several other guys volunteered to load this airplane. And the cargo that we loaded that day was all in black plastic bags. And they were fairly heavy, but they weren't bad. So, we figured it was soldier supplies and equipment that was being sent home. And we loaded about 150 of those bags. And then this sergeant showed up, walked up to the ramp, went inside, and looked at the tags on the bag. I had not paid any attention to the tags. Each one of the tags had a man's name on it. These were not their possessions that were going home. These were the men themselves, and these were body bags. And that was my introduction to that country.
Narrator: Two weeks before one of Thompson’s missions, locals were urged to evacuate. Their village was first targeted by air, then entered on foot by Thompson and his fellow soldiers. To their horror, they discovered not all villagers had evacuated. Their ambush mission became a rescue mission, relocating one child to a nearby convent. Afterward, Thompson began volunteering at the convent to help with repairs.
Thompson: Once I got to the village, I met this little boy named Winto who was five years old. And Winto became my best friend. Because every time I showed up, he would grab hold of my leg and hold on to me and would not leave me alone all the time I was there. And he would cry when I left in the evenings. So, after many visits to the convent over the next three months, I had filed adoption papers and had adopted Winto. We called him “Winter.” I had adopted Winto. And I went down to the convent to take the adoption papers that had been filled out to the sisters. And the night before, we'd had some penetrations into the compound and around the convent. So, we had to go out and disarm all the weapons and all the bombs and everything. And when I walked into that convent that morning, up the path to the convent, Win saw me, and he…he came running across the field….and stepped on one of the landmines that I’d missed. And I lost my boy.
Klapperich: I'm sorry.
Thompson: And, so that was…that's still hard today. It always will be.
Klapperich: I'm so sorry. I know you've been able to tell us, or tell me and others that we're friends with, a lot about him over the years.
Thompson: Well, the outcome of that, I came home, I started teaching Sunday school. And these kids, every time I see them, I have...I have my boy back. Because I have someone I can talk to, and someone that hugs me, and someone that…that cares.
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