The South Carolina State Guard (SCSG) has been increasingly activating troops in response to the widespread devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, which left a path of destruction throughout the state. Currently, 146 soldiers from the SCSG are on State Active Duty, working alongside the Army and Air National Guard in recovery operations. These soldiers are engaged in a variety of missions, including debris clearing, Point of Distribution (POD) operations, law enforcement augmentation, and utilizing drones for damage assessments. Additionally, they are conducting specialized training, instructing National Guard soldiers on safe chainsaw operation before they deploy to storm-damaged areas.
The South Carolina State Guard’s Provost Marshal unit has been actively supporting local and state law enforcement agencies in the wake of Hurricane Helene. As communities face widespread damage and disruption, the Provost Marshal unit has stepped in to bolster law enforcement efforts, providing essential manpower to maintain public safety. Their duties include securing critical infrastructure and assisting with traffic control to ensure that relief operations run smoothly. Furthermore, they have been working alongside law enforcement officers in affected areas to safeguard evacuation routes and manage crowd control at shelters and distribution points. This collaboration strengthens the overall effectiveness of law enforcement agencies, allowing them to focus on critical public safety needs during the recovery phase.
The Provost Marshal unit is a specialized armed unit that plays a vital role in supporting law enforcement efforts during emergencies and natural disasters. Members of this unit undergo rigorous law enforcement and firearms training, covering areas such as crowd control and security operations. Held to the same standards and regulations as any other law enforcement agency in the state, these soldiers are well-prepared to execute their duties with professionalism and accountability. The Provost Marshal unit is often called upon in times of crisis, such as after Hurricane Helene, to provide essential law enforcement support, reinforcing public safety and contributing to the overall disaster response efforts.
Learn more about The Provost Marshall unit in our Commanders Briefing Interview – Click here to listen
Over the past few years, the SCSG has been developing its drone program in preparation for missions like the response to Hurricane Helene. The drone pilots can swiftly survey large areas, identifying individuals stranded by floodwaters or in need of emergency assistance. Once identified, they relay this information to the state’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC), which coordinates rescue teams and dispatches relief forces. In addition, the aerial reconnaissance provided by these drones helps the EOC prioritize resources and reconstruction efforts, enabling more efficient and informed recovery planning.
The SCSG has also been coordinating with the Deputy Adjutant General of South Carolina, Jeff Jones, to plan the next steps in the ongoing recovery efforts. In a recent meeting with leaders from the South Carolina Military Department (SCMD) and the city of North Augusta, members of the SCSG discussed strategies to accelerate relief operations and address the most pressing needs of affected communities. The meeting highlighted the importance of a coordinated approach as recovery efforts continue across the state.
Throughout these efforts, the South Carolina State Guard has worked closely with the National Guard. Together, they have been rescuing citizens, delivering emergency supplies, and aiding communities in their recovery from the hurricane’s impact. This collaboration between the two military branches is crucial, not only for the success of the current recovery operations but also for fostering stronger partnerships in future disaster response efforts. Their combined work underscores the importance of unity in tackling the challenges posed by natural disasters, ensuring that South Carolina’s citizens receive the support they need in these difficult times.
Soldiers assigned to 4th Battalion, 118th Infantry Regiment, 218th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, South Carolina Army National Guard received chainsaw operator instruction from subject matter experts from the SC State Guard at the Greer Readiness Center. Approximately 40 Soldiers learned chainsaw and debris clearing techniques. The South Carolina National Guard is commited to supporting local and state agencies with post #Helene efforts. (Courtesy photos)
LTC David White, PE and CW2 Sean Smith, Pilot-in-Command of the Engineer Detachment prepare the State Guard drone for a damage assessment mission in Saluda. (02OCT24)
sUAS (Drone) assessments are being conducted in Saluda County evaluating inaccessible areas of the county. # SCSG #TrainedandReady
South Carolina State Guard troops are in the field assisting local governments with debris cleanup across the state at this time.
Members of the South Carolina State Guard and South Carolina National Guard conducting joint operations for Points of Distribution (POD) Operations in North Augusta.
Members of the South Carolina State Guard are cutting their way into inaccessible areas, blocked by numerous trees.
Members of the South Carolina State Guard met with SCMD Deputy Adjunant General Jeff Jones, members of the and North Augusta leaders to determine next steps in Hurricane Helene recovery.
Sources: South Carolina State Guard – South Carolina Military Department – South Carolina State Guard – South Carolina State Guard PAO
