About The S.C. State Guard
The South Carolina State Guard swiftly responds to natural and man-made disasters, safeguarding people, property, and aiding community recovery alongside the National Guard and law enforcement when called upon. It is sanctioned under Title 32 of the National Guard Bureau and the State of South Carolina Code of Laws, operating as a paid, professional military force under the direction of the Adjutant General within the South Carolina Military Department, with the Governor as its Commander in Chief.
The South Carolina State Guard is organized as an army division under the South Carolina Military Department, is commanded by a Major General appointed by the Governor.
Since 2015, the South Carolina State Guard has contributed over 44,000 hours of service to South Carolina, aiding in hurricane recovery, rendering pandemic assistance, and with other natural disasters across the state. State Guard members share a passion for service and an equally strong commitment to their fellow South Carolinians.
History Of The S.C. State Guard
Francis Marion at Burch’s Mill – William de Hartburn Washington (1833-70)
The South Carolina State Guard has safeguarded the state since 1670, starting with the Charleston Militia, protecting against pirates, invaders, and Native American raids. In 1775, the First Provincial Congress in Charleston formed a Committee of Safety to oversee the province’s military, urging all inhabitants to train in arms and swiftly organizing militia units across the colony.
During the American Revolution, leaders like Francis Marion, Thomas Sumter, and Andrew Pickens led engagements against the British. The SC Militia played key roles in taking Florida from Spain in the early 1800s and contributed to conflicts like the War of 1812 and the Mexican War.
Since 2015, the State Guard has contributed over 44,000 hours of service to South Carolina, aiding in recovery efforts post-Hurricanes Joaquin, Harvey, and Matthew.
For more information about the history of the military in the State of South Carolina, visit the South Carolina Military Museum.