The South Carolina State Guard (State Defense Force) opened the month by paying tribute to Lieutenant Colonel Francis Marion during the 250th Anniversary of the start of the American Revolution. This anniversary marked not only a remembrance of one of South Carolina’s most iconic military figures, but a broader reflection on the early Patriots who became our nation’s first Veterans. That spirit of remembrance was on full display as the State Guard participated in the second annual Salute to Veterans at General Francis Marion’s gravesite at Belle Isle Plantation Cemetery in Pineville. The ceremony brought together community members, veterans, and State Guard troops to honor Marion—known to history as “The Swamp Fox”—whose brilliance in irregular warfare during the Revolution helped shape the outcome of America’s fight for independence.
During the event, the South Carolina State Guard presented an official salute at Marion’s gravesite, joining Berkeley County and the State of South Carolina in recognizing both the legendary commander and the men and women who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces since the founding of the nation. This solemn tribute underscored the enduring connection between modern service members and the Revolutionary War Patriots who stepped forward with extraordinary courage and resilience. For many in attendance, standing at the site where Francis Marion was laid to rest served as a powerful reminder that history is not abstract—it is walked upon, lived in, and carried forward by those who continue to serve.
Francis Marion’s legacy remains woven into the very fabric of South Carolina. His mastery of guerrilla tactics, his leadership of small bands of militia, and his ability to strike swiftly against British forces made him one of the most effective commanders of the Revolutionary War. Unlike many other commanders of the time that utilized Napoleonic tactics, Marion operated deep in the swamps and rural backcountry of South Carolina, using mobility and surprise to defeat far larger and better-equipped British units. His actions disrupted supply lines, inspired local resistance, and kept the Patriot cause alive during the most challenging phases of the war. Throughout the conflict, Marion demonstrated an unwavering commitment to liberty and earned a reputation as a symbol of tenacity, ingenuity, and patriotic duty—traits still embodied today by the South Carolina State Guard.
As South Carolina honored its Revolutionary War heritage, the State Guard also celebrated a major step forward in its modern mission. During the same month, 28 new recruits were sworn into the organization by Colonel Glenn Hamm. This intake is part of a months-long recruiting surge that has transformed the State Guard’s force structure. In September alone, 43 new recruits joined the Guard, adding to the dozens who had already enlisted during the earlier months of the year. With the latest class of 28 recruits, the South Carolina State Guard is rapidly nearing its authorized strength of 1,000 troops—making it one of the largest State Guards in the entire nation.
Reaching a strength of 1,000 troops carries enormous operational value for the State of South Carolina. With a fully manned State Guard, the state becomes significantly more resilient and prepared for emergencies. These troops perform missions that directly support state agencies and the South Carolina National Guard, including large-scale cyber defense operations. The State Guard also maintains one of the strongest engineering corps in the country, responsible for inspecting and helping repair more than 10,000 dams statewide. Their work saves South Carolina millions of dollars by reducing the need for costly external contractors and ensuring that critical infrastructure remains safe and well-maintained.
Beyond engineering and cyber operations, the State Guard maintains forces trained for law enforcement augmentation during statewide emergencies, ensuring communities remain protected when local agencies face overwhelming demand. The Guard also supports the South Carolina Department of Corrections with exterior security operations, helping mitigate staffing challenges and ensuring continued safety at key facilities. Together, these missions demonstrate why South Carolina is now considered one of the safest and most prepared states in the nation when disaster strikes.
Much of this growth and operational excellence can be credited to the leadership of Major General Leon Lott, the Commanding General of the South Carolina State Guard. His strategic vision for force expansion, mission diversification, and professional standards has transformed the State Guard into a fully capable, paid, and mission-ready military force. His Recruiting and Retention Staff has been instrumental in bringing in a diverse and high-quality amount of volunteers at a historic pace, while the Public Affairs Team—led by Captain David Finleyson and Captain Joseph Goldsmith—has elevated the visibility, professionalism, and community engagement of the entire organization. Their combined efforts have ensured that South Carolina has one of the strongest, most reliable, and most admired State Guards in the United States.
The South Carolina State Guard was honored this past weekend to participate in this ceremony honoring General Francis Marion, The Swamp Fox, and all veterans.
Help Berkeley County and South Carolina present the second annual Salute to Veterans on Saturday, November 8th, at 11 am at General Francis Marion’s gravesite at Belle Isle Plantation Cemetery in Pineville!
The South Carolina State Guard will be presenting an official salute at Francis Marion’s gravesite. It will honor the men and women who have served US Armed Forces and SC’s Revolutionary War Hero, General Francis Marion.
Our nation’s very first Veterans, the Patriots, stepped up with fortitude and bravery to fight for the freedoms we still enjoy today.
Over the weekend, that spirit was beautifully on display in Berkeley County. Members of the South Carolina State Guard gathered to honor the lives lost in every conflict since the Revolution right where one of our state’s greatest military heroes, General Francis Marion, was laid to rest.
There are countless ways to reflect and give thanks this Veterans Day, and every day, by walking where our ancestors fought, exploring the places where history happened, and sharing their stories.
28 new recruits were sworn into the South Carolina State Guard this weekend by COL Glenn Hamm. If you are looking for a way to serve your community while serving in a professional, paid military organization, consider enlisting with the SCSG
Source: Daniel Island Historical Society – South Carolina 250th – Live 5 News – Live 5 News – My Revolutionary War – Fox Carolina – American Battlefield Trust