This article discusses Brig. Gen. Jeff Stilwell’s nomination as the next head of South Carolina’s Military Department, succeeding Maj. Gen. Van McCarty.
Stilwell, a longtime member of the National Guard, views the organization as an extended family and emphasizes the importance of its people.
His confirmation by the Senate is expected to proceed smoothly, with Sen. Tom Young expressing confidence in his leadership.
McCarty, who was appointed in 2019, is stepping down at age 65 to allow for a full four-year term for his successor.
During his tenure, he oversaw the National Guard’s response to COVID-19, including testing and vaccinations, as well as deployments to presidential inaugurations, the southern border, and overseas missions in Africa, Poland, Syria, and Saudi Arabia. Gov.
Henry McMaster praised McCarty’s leadership, highlighting his service to the state and nation. McCarty plans to spend his retirement with family.