Greenville County Honors Long-Serving Council Member with Prestigious Award
In a heartfelt ceremony on November 3, Greenville County celebrated one of its most dedicated public servants, Butch Kirven, with the remarkable Order of the Palmetto. This distinguished honor, considered South Carolina’s highest civilian award, was presented to Kirven by Greenville Mayor Knox White on behalf of Gov. Henry McMaster. A testament to Kirven’s impressive contributions and unwavering commitment to his community, the Order of the Palmetto has been reserved for individuals whose life work exemplifies extraordinary achievement since its inception in 1971 by former Gov. John C. West.
A Journey of Service and Dedication
Butch Kirven has had a long and illustrious career in public service, first being elected to the Greenville County Council in 2004. He has worn many hats during his tenure, most notably serving as the council’s chairman from 2005 to 2012 and then again from 2017 to 2020. Kirven has also played vital roles as the chairman of the finance committee and participated on various other noteworthy boards, including the Greenville-Pickens Transportation Study and the Appalachian Council of Government.
His dedication expands beyond the council chamber—Kirven has also dedicated 37 years to the U.S. Army National Guard, culminating in his retirement as a brigadier general in 2003. His accomplishments not only reflect his personal skills but also the efforts of those around him and their collaborative spirit.
Words of Gratitude
During the ceremony, an emotional Kirven took a moment to reflect on his achievements, acknowledging that they were not solely his own. “I’ve been fortunate to know so many great people and learn from them,” he remarked, recognizing the community leaders and teammates who stood by him throughout his career. His humble attitude shone through as he highlighted the tremendous value of collaboration in effective public service.
New Memorial Honors His Legacy
The tribute didn’t end with the prestigious award. In a fitting honor, the Greenville County Council also approved plans to rename the veterans memorial in front of County Square to the Herman G. “Butch” Kirven Veterans Plaza. This re-naming serves as a permanent recognition of Kirven’s contributions to the community and the services he rendered during his military career.
The newly designated veterans plaza will not only serve as a reminder of Kirven’s achievements but also as a gathering place where local residents can honor all veterans who have served the nation. It’s a beautiful way for the community to celebrate those who have fought for their freedoms, while also ensuring that Kirven’s impactful legacy continues to inspire future generations.
A Bright Future Ahead
As Greenville County looks towards the future, it’s clear that Kirven’s legacy will leave a lasting mark on the community. His exemplary leadership and dedication serve as a shining example of what it means to be a true public servant. With countless projects and initiatives still on the horizon, there’s no doubt that the spirit of collaboration and service will continue to thrive in the county.
For residents of Greenville, the culmination of Kirven’s achievements and honors is more than just a recognition of one man’s career; it represents the heart and soul of a community committed to growth and positive change. During this special time of reflection, it’s a great opportunity for everyone to express their gratitude for the hard work and determination that leaders like Kirven have put in to make Greenville County a better place for all.
