Last month, we reported that Governor Henry McMaster activated the South Carolina State Guard (State Defense Force – SCSG) to support Operation One South Carolina in response to the federal government shutdown, which abruptly halted pay for federal civilian employees and military members while also disrupting critical federal assistance programs relied upon by low-income families. With many South Carolinians suddenly facing food insecurity and uncertainty, the South Carolina State Guard rose to the occasion, delivering a steady, disciplined, and compassionate response to an unprecedented situation that directly affected communities across the state.
Although the federal government was eventually reactivated, Operation One South Carolina continued to ensure federal employees were able to fully return to work and begin addressing the significant backlog that resulted from the shutdown. Rather than abruptly ending support, the South Carolina State Guard deliberately maintained its presence, allowing relief operations to taper in a controlled and deliberate manner. By filling this critical gap, the State Guard ensured the transition was seamless, preventing disruptions to food distribution efforts while federal agencies regained their footing and South Carolinians who depended on these services continued to receive assistance without interruption.
Throughout the operation, South Carolina State Guard soldiers worked both in the field and behind the scenes to sustain daily food distribution efforts. While many troops were visible at distribution sites, another large team ensured logistics, coordination, and supply flow remained consistent each day. During the first week alone, Guard members helped feed 2,175 families through the Harvest Hope Food Bank distribution centers in Greenville and Columbia. As operations expanded, troops continued working in locations such as Sumter, Belton, Hodges, and other communities, responding wherever assistance was needed.
As the weeks progressed, the scale of the mission only grew. During the period of November 11 through 14, Guard members supported Harvest Hope operations in both Columbia and Greenville, helping feed an additional 2,388 families. By the week ending November 17 through 21, South Carolina State Guard troops assisted in distributing food to 1,795 families in Columbia and Greenville, while the Hodges location served more than 500 additional families. On the final day of Operation One South Carolina, Guard members were once again on the ground in Belton, working alongside Second Harvest Food Bank to distribute food packets to more than 700 families, underscoring the sustained commitment of the force through the mission’s conclusion.
Beyond numbers, Operation One South Carolina carried deep personal significance for thousands of families, particularly as Thanksgiving approached. The South Carolina State Guard played a critical role in ensuring families had not only food, but also water, beverages, and the essential components of a traditional Thanksgiving meal. Because of their efforts, many South Carolinians were able to gather around the table with family and friends, share a meaningful holiday, and give thanks under circumstances that might otherwise have been marked by hardship. The Guard’s presence helped preserve a sense of normalcy and dignity during a challenging time.
The mission also drew recognition and support from state leadership and community figures. During operations at the Columbia Harvest Hope Food Bank, the South Carolina State Guard welcomed Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette and South Carolina legend and NFL wide receiver Alshon Jeffery, whose visit highlighted the importance of the mission and the dedication of the soldiers carrying it out. Senior leadership within the Guard also remained closely engaged, with Chief of Staff Colonel Renee MacDonald visiting troops in Greenville to commend their continued professionalism and resilience during the closing week of the operation.
Operation One South Carolina stands as a clear example of why the South Carolina State Guard exists: to serve the citizens of the state in moments of need, whatever the mission may be. From large-scale natural disaster response to direct interaction with families facing food insecurity, the Guard demonstrated its ability to respond rapidly, sustain operations over time, and adapt to evolving circumstances. As the mission concluded, Guard members stood ready for whatever comes next, prepared to answer the call whenever Governor McMaster determines the state needs them again.
We at The State Guard & Defense Force Council (Also known as StateDefenseForce.com) commend the soldiers of The South Carolina State Guard for stepping up and ensuring South Carolina made it through this difficult part of the year. Thank you for your incredible service and sacrifices that you made to ensure this mission was a success.
We also would like to highlight the amazing work of The South Carolina State Guard Public Affairs Office, which is lead by The Commanding Officer Major David Finleyson, Executive Officer Captain Joseph Goldsmith, and the other members of their incredible team.. They are among the best Public Affairs Teams in the nation and their work is beyond remarkable. Thank you for your service and amazing talent.
While the South Carolina State Guard has been busy with emergency operations assisting citizens with food distribution, another large team has been working behind the scenes to make it happen. Here is a brief look at some of our amazing troops who make sure field operations happen smoothly every day.
As week two of Operation One SC concludes, the South Carolina State Guard would like to share the following information. During the first week of operations, 2,175 families were fed between the Greenville and Columbia Harvest Hope Food Distribution Centers. SCSG troops are proud to be a part of this operation, feeding citizens of South Carolina that require assistance during this time.
SCSG troops were hard at work Saturday in Sumter making sure those who needed assistance with food were covered. Operation One SC continues until relieved.
fter completion of operations for the week of November 11 -14, the South Carolina State Guard, as part of Operation One SC, continued its deployment at the order of Governor Henry McMaster, assisting Harvest Hope Food Bank in Columbia and Greenville to feed 2,388 families during this food emergency.
The South Carolina State Guard was pleased to welcome two special visitors to the Columbia Harvest Hope Food Bank location on Friday. LT Gov Pamela Evette and SC Gamecock legend/NFL Wide Receiver Alson Jeffrey. Thank you both for your dedication to the citizens of South Carolina.
As Thanksgiving approaches, the South Carolina State Guard continues its mission of assisting citizens in time of need. Operation One SC has been ongoing over the month of November, and we are very thankful for all who serve.
Ending the week of November 17 – 21, the South Carolina State Guard assisted #HarvestHope during Operation One SC distributing food across the state by serving 1,795 families in Columbia and Greenville. The Hodges, SC location assisted another 500+ families for a total of 2,295 families in need. Proudly serving the citizens of South Carolina.
SCSG Chief of Staff COL Renee MacDonald visited troops at the Greenville Harvest Hope Food Bank location today, praising continued efforts during the closing week of Operation One SC. Pictured with COL MacDonald are MAJ Rob Taunton, 2BN Commander (left) and MAJ David Finleyson, PAO (right).
On the final day of Operation One SC, SCSG troops were back in Belton this morning with #secondharvestfoodbank passing out food packets to over 700 families. This has been a tremendously successful mission and demonstrates what the State Guard is here for. We now prepare for our next mission, whenever and whatever Governor Henry McMaster determines the need.
Source: South Carolina State Guard