On July 8, 2025 Lance Corporal Richard A Lee exemplified outstanding bravery and dedication to public safety during a high-risk incident where he not only saved lives but did so without any regard for his own.

After receiving information that a pursuit involving a stolen vehicle was entering Chester County, Lance Corporal Lee positioned himself at the 52-mile marker on Interstate 77 to deploy stop sticks. But the stolen vehicle exited and then reentered the interstate, this time traveling the wrong way and posing a deadly threat to oncoming traffic.

Realizing the danger of the situation, Lance Corporal Lee moved to mile marker 51 and, while turning around, saw the stolen vehicle speeding toward a line of unsuspecting drivers. Without any hesitation, Lance Corporal Lee made a split-second and heroic decision to drive his patrol vehicle directly into the path of the oncoming suspect. His selfless act resulted in the stolen vehicle crashing into Lance Corporal Lee’s patrol vehicle, successfully disabling the car and ending the pursuit.

Miraculously, Lance Corporal Lee walked away without any major injuries. With his actions that day, Lance Corporal Lee not only stopped a criminal act: He saved countless lives, and in the process demonstrated the highest traditions of courage, duty, and sacrifice. His bravery is an inspiration to his fellow troopers, and a testament to the Highway Patrol’s core values of Service, Integrity, and Responsibility.

Lance Corporal Lee’s actions and resilience in the face of extreme danger demonstrated remarkable heroism and earned him this nomination and award. His heroic actions reflect the highest ideals of courage and are in keeping with the finest traditions of the South Carolina Highway Patrol.