Our richest asset: our people

Dear Editor:
On Nov. 16, I was deer hunting on McFaddin property in the New Zion community of Clarendon County. At about 5:20 p.m., I shot a deer, which ran into the woods of Black River Swamp. Before entering the woods I put my rifle, jacket and gloves in my truck, picked up my flashlight and began looking for the downed deer.

My son and niece heard the shot and came to help. We got separated and I soon realized I was lost. After some time every tree in all directions looked the same – which way should I go?

I rested on a fallen tree for a few minutes and asked God to lead me out of there. I began walking again and soon came upon an elevated roadbed.

After a short walk, I saw a deer stand and then another stand. I knew then I had walked all the way through the swamp and was close to the Black River Hunting Club. Then I saw lights flicking through the trees, then the sound of a DNR pickup coming toward me.

I paused for a minute and thanked God for answering my prayer. The first words I heard were “been walking long?”

Yes, too long – 3-plus hours. When we got back to my truck, there must have been 15 to 20 people looking for me. I was told one phone call got a lot of help – the DNR, Sheriff’s Department, Rescue Squad, Fire Department, neighbors and friends. Thanks for your quick response.

To Clarendon County: your richest asset is your people. Again, thanks to all.

Sincerely,
Hoyt Holt
Mullins, S.C.