Major General Leon Lott, Commanding General of the South Carolina State Guard (SCSG), delivered a powerful address this week to the South Carolina General Assembly Military Caucus, highlighting the remarkable strides the organization has made the last few years. His briefing provided an in-depth look at how the State Guard has grown into a highly capable, modern force that now serves as a model for other State Defense Forces across the nation.
Over the years, MG Lott has spearheaded several key initiatives that have transformed the South Carolina State Guard into a multifaceted and highly responsive force. One of the major achievements is the establishment of a dedicated Cyber Unit within the Guard. This unit works alongside National Guard Cyber Defense Units and state agencies, reinforcing cybersecurity measures to safeguard South Carolina’s critical infrastructure against rising digital threats.
Equally impactful has been the creation of the SCSG’s Law Enforcement Program, which augments local police forces during statewide emergencies. This program gained particular attention when State Guard soldiers were activated to provide security at the Governor’s Mansion during large-scale protests a few years ago—demonstrating the Guard’s ability to maintain peace and order during times of civil unrest.
MG Lott also highlighted the Guard’s role in securing correctional facilities, implementing an exterior security support program for prisons across the state. This effort has provided critical manpower to South Carolina’s correctional system, allowing state law enforcement to maintain a robust and secure perimeter during high-risk situations.
Notably, MG Lott brings a unique perspective to his role as Commanding General, as he also serves as Sheriff of Richland County, one of the largest counties in South Carolina. His dual leadership roles have provided him with deep insight into both military and law enforcement operations, allowing him to bridge gaps between agencies and enhance the Guard’s effectiveness in public safety missions.
Training has been a top priority for MG Lott, and his push for excellence has paid off. The SCSG has built a reputation for delivering outstanding performance during natural disasters, hurricanes, and other state emergencies. Their preparedness has saved lives, protected property, and solidified public trust in the Guard’s capabilities.
In what many have called a groundbreaking achievement, MG Lott successfully secured state funding to pay State Guard soldiers not only for State Active Duty but also for training—an accomplishment few State Defense Forces nationwide have achieved. He also established a full-time paid administrative staff and ensured that soldiers receive state benefits, raising morale and retention rates.
Looking to the future, MG Lott recently shared his plans to potentially establish an Opposing Forces (OPFOR) unit, modeled after the highly regarded program within the Georgia State Defense Force. OPFOR missions place State Guard soldiers in the role of live adversaries, providing realistic, high-stakes training environments that sharpen National Guard troops’ tactical skills and adaptability. This immersive training has been shown to save lives by preparing soldiers for the unpredictability of real-world combat.
During his address, MG Lott emphasized that the South Carolina State Guard not only serves as a critical component of the state’s emergency response framework but also delivers an exceptional return on investment. He highlighted how the Guard’s missions and programs save the state millions of dollars annually, while its innovative initiatives have turned the SCSG into a nationwide success story.
The South Carolina State Guard and MG Lott expressed their deep gratitude to the General Assembly Military Caucus for their continued support and commitment. Their trust and investment have been pivotal in transforming the Guard into one of the most capable and respected State Defense Forces in the United States.
We recently did a Commanders Briefing with Major General (SC) Leon Lott. To listen to it please click here.
MG Leon Lott, Commander of the South Carolina State Guard, this morning addressing the South Carolina General Assembly Military Caucus updating them on the SCSG and their current capabilities and recent missions.
The South Carolina State Guard, and MG Leon Lott, would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the members of the South Carolina General Assembly Military Caucus for their time today and continued support. Your faith in the #SCSG is greatly appreciated.
Source: South Carolina State Guard
