The South Carolina State Guard’s (State Defense Force) 3rd Battalion recently conducted a weekend training drill that showcased the readiness and professionalism of its troops. During their October training, the soldiers engaged in a variety of exercises designed to refresh and reinforce the skills they learned during Initial Entry Training (Basic Training), while prior service members from the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Coast Guard, Air Force, or Space Force refined the foundational skills they acquired during their respective military service.
The day began with Land Navigation, a critical skill that forms the backbone of any successful operation. In statewide emergencies such as hurricanes, tornadoes, and flooding, knowing how to orient oneself on a map without the use of GPS can make the difference between life and death. By mastering compass and map navigation, South Carolina State Guard soldiers can move efficiently through terrain obstructed by fallen trees, floodwaters, or debris. These capabilities become essential during Search and Rescue missions, where soldiers must locate and evacuate South Carolinians in need of help. Land Navigation ensures that even in the absence of modern technology, trained units can reach their objectives, stabilize the injured, and ensure they are safely evacuated to medical facilities.
Next, soldiers trained on chainsaw operations and safety—a vital component of the State Guard’s emergency response mission set. Hurricanes and severe storms often leave roads blocked by trees, power poles, and downed electrical lines. Having trained soldiers who can safely and efficiently clear these obstacles ensures that emergency vehicles, including ambulances and rescue trucks, can reach those in need. These operations are not just about restoring access but about saving lives, allowing isolated families the ability to reach emergency shelters and Point Of Distribution (POD) locations to obtain needed food, water and medical supplies. Soldiers also learn how to operate chainsaws under high-stress, real-world conditions while remaining mindful of hidden hazards such as live power lines and unstable debris.
The 3rd Battalion also practiced Point of Distribution (POD) operations, an essential mission mainly organized during the COVID-19 pandemic. PODs were originally a National Guard-led operation that distributed food, water, and medical supplies when grocery stores shelves were empty, and citizens were cut off from basic necessities. The State Guard has since been tasked with the POD mission and integrated it into its training as a permanent and vital mission. In the aftermath of hurricanes, tornadoes, or flooding, PODs enable Guard units to provide critical aid directly to affected citizens. This mission has proven indispensable, ensuring that Americans have the essential food, water and medical supplies they need for survival during natural disasters and statewide emergencies.
During this weekend drill, 3rd Battalion soldiers practiced land navigation, received instruction on chainsaw safety, were briefed on deployment hazards, and rehearsed POD deployments. This kind of training proves that The South Carolina State Guard and other State Defense Forces are a key asset in response operations and saving the lives of Americans nationwide.
State Defense Forces like the South Carolina State Guard train every month to ensure they are always ready to respond when disaster strikes. These men and women embody the true spirit of the Citizen-Soldier—volunteers who stand ready to serve their neighbors, their state, and their nation whenever duty calls.
StateDefenseForce.com would like to commend the outstanding professionalism and dedication of the South Carolina State Guard Public Affairs Office. Their continued efforts in showcasing the training, service, and excellence of the South Carolina State Guard provide an invaluable window into the commitment and capability of their Citizen-Soldiers.
SCSG 3BN practiced land nav, received instruction on chainsaw use and safety, briefed on various hazards which could be encountered while on deployment, and practiced POD deployments in their latest drill. How did you spend your weekend? Photos by SGT Chris Amarbasick. #trainedandready
Source: South Carolina State Guard