Guiding the Future: Adjutant General Commends SC State Guard Officer Graduates

The South Carolina Military Academy proudly announced the successful graduation of Class 2023-002, a group of dedicated officer candidates who have completed an arduous five-month advanced leadership training program. This achievement marks a significant milestone in their journey towards becoming leaders in the South Carolina State Guard (State Defense Force). The graduation ceremony, a momentous occasion, was graced by the presence of Major General Van McCarty, the South Carolina Adjutant General (Senior National Guard General), who delivered an inspiring speech to commemorate the occasion.

One of the highlights of the ceremony was the recognition of officers who excelled in their training. Those who completed the Captain’s Career Course were honored, including CPTs. Smith and Dantzler, 1LT. Shippy, CW2 Post, and CPT. Finleyson. Their commitment to mastering advanced leadership skills is commendable and bodes well for the future of the South Carolina State Guard. Additionally, the Intermediate Leadership Course graduates were celebrated. Among those present were MAJs. Blandford and Hamm, CPTs. Jaja and Bailey, MAJs. Bailey and Fletcher, CPT. Simpson, and although not pictured, CPT. Kennedy. Their successful completion of this rigorous course underscores their dedication to enhancing their leadership capabilities.

Furthermore, the ceremony highlighted the well-deserved promotions of several officers. Notably, 2LTs. Cartwright and Hibionada were promoted to 1LT, reflecting their growth and potential in their roles. Additionally, 1LT. Cox achieved the rank of CPT, signifying a significant step in their leadership journey. These officers have demonstrated their commitment to service and leadership, and their promotions are a testament to their hard work and dedication. Congratulations resonate throughout the South Carolina Military Academy and the entire State Defense Force community as these graduates and promoted officers embark on their continued contributions to the security and well-being of the state.

Congratulations to the South Carolina Military Acadamy’s graduating Class 2023-002, who successfully completed five months of intense advanced leadership training.

The ceremony’s guest speaker was Major General Van McCarty, South Carolina Adjunant General.

For the Captain’s Career Course, the following officers completed their course. From left to right, CPTs. Smith and Dantzler, 1LT. Shippy, CW2 Post, and CPT. Finleyson.

For the Intermediate Leadership Course, from left to right are MAJs. Blandford and Hamm, CPTs. Jaja and Bailey, MAJs. Bailey and Fletcher, CPT. Simpson, and (not pictured) CPT. Kennedy.

Also, 2LTs. Cartwright and Hibionada were promoted to 1LT. 1LT. Cox was promoted to CPT. Congratulations to these officers.

Source: South Carolina State Guard