COLUMBIA, S.C. - The South Carolina National Guard was prepared to respond to winter weather with personnel and equipment at several locations throughout South Carolina Jan. 21.
Approximately 50 Guard members were activated on state active duty after Gov. Henry McMaster declared a state of emergency Jan. 19. Their mission is to keep major roads clear so that state agencies and first responders can help people impacted by the weather conditions.
The activation comes after the South Carolina National Guard conducted about 40 vehicle recovery missions Jan. 16-17 in support of the South Carolina Department of Transportation and South Carolina Department of Public Safety after a winter storm in the Upstate region.
“We’ve been coordinating with state agencies and preparing our personnel and equipment following the winter storm response last weekend,” said U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Van McCarty, the adjutant general for South Carolina. “We have been working with civil authorities to determine the needs of the state for this current response.”
McCarty said, depending on the severity of the weather, the South Carolina National Guard has additional resources available to assist if necessary.
“We are well prepared for this mission,” said McCarty. “Our service members have the experience, and they are proud to support the citizens of South Carolina.”