COLUMBIA, SC (SCDVA) - South Carolina has a longstanding tradition of hundreds of its sons and daughters volunteering for military service straight out of high school each year.

With more than 275 rising seniors registering to be recognized at the annual Military Honor Cord Ceremony held at Fort Jackson, this year's graduating class upheld that legacy. The South Carolina Department of Education celebrated these students' commitment by providing a special red, white, and blue cord to accompany their high school graduation regalia.

“We are deeply grateful for their courage, their love of country, and their commitment to serve. They honor our state, and because of them, our nation is stronger,” said Superintendent Ellen Weaver during her opening remarks.

Fewer than 1 in 4 young adults meet the requirements to serve in the United States Military, noted South Carolina Department of Veterans' Affairs Secretary, Maj. Gen (Ret.) Todd McCaffrey in his keynote speech. He highlighted the high physical and academic standards each student met to receive their cord and spoke to the positive impacts and opportunities for self-development which accompany the choice to serve.

Beyond individual achievement, the ceremony spotlighted South Carolina’s deep-rooted culture of service. The Palmetto State boasts the seventh-highest number of Veterans per capita in the nation and is home to eight major military installations along with Fort Gordon in Georgia.

South Carolina’s impact isn't just about welcoming Veterans home. We play a critical role in national defense by raising young women and men who are committed and prepared to serve our nation. From 2024 to 2025, JROTC enrollment surged by roughly 1,500 students, bringing the state's total to more than 20,000 future leaders. According to a report from the South Carolina Department of Education,173 schools across the state offered JROTC programs during the 2023-2024 school year.

For many South Carolinians, this path is also a proud family tradition. WIS interviewed Jack Taylor, who was inspired to enlist by his father and other Veteran family members.

We are grateful to the South Carolina Department of Education for recognizing these brave students, and we are honored to support their effort alongside Fort Jackson.

To see the full ceremony, visit the South Carolina Department of Education's Website by clicking HERE.