[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 117 (Thursday, June 25, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E573]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 SOUTH CAROLINA NATIONAL GUARD RESPONDS

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JOE WILSON

                           of south carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 25, 2020

  Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, two weeks ago as violent 
anarchy gripped our nation's capital, the South Carolina National Guard 
answered the call.
  The South Carolina National Guard successfully mobilized and deployed 
nearly 450 Soldiers to the District of Columbia in support of the D.C. 
National Guard in less than 24 hours. This speaks to the preparedness 
of our service members and their willingness to support the citizens of 
the United States.
  While on mission in the National Capital Region, Task Force Palmetto 
assisted the D.C. National Guard with crowd and traffic control, 
patrols to ensure citizen safety, and general security of the national 
monuments.
  The support provided by the South Carolina National Guard enabled 
U.S. citizens to exercise their Constitutional rights and freedoms to 
peacefully protest.
  With a history dating back 350 years, the men and women of the South 
Carolina National Guard continue to represent the state of South 
Carolina, the National Guard, and the U.S. Army with the utmost 
professionalism and honor. Their service in D.C. is yet another example 
of their commitment to State and Nation.
  Special appreciation for Captain Brian Leister and First Sergeant 
Aaron Bittner, who survived being struck by lightning as they were 
serving.
  Congratulations to 1-118 IN Battalion Commander Lieutenant Colonel 
Kenneth Snow for his honorable leadership on the ground as well as 
Colonel Jamie Fowler who liaised with the D.C. National Guard.
  Lastly, South Carolina is grateful for Governor Henry McMaster and 
Adjutant General R. Van McCarty for their rapid response and service 
protecting families.