National Guard soldiers participate in a ceremony at the South Carolina State House.
Governor Henry McMaster has nominated Brigadier General Robin Stilwell as the next Adjutant General of South Carolina, succeeding Major General Van McCarty. A Greenville native and Citadel graduate, Stilwell boasts over 34 years in the South Carolina National Guard, managing key programs and operations both domestically and abroad. His extensive military background and dedication to service mark him as a strong candidate to lead the National Guard. The appointment awaits confirmation from the South Carolina Senate.
In a significant announcement at the South Carolina State House in Columbia, Governor Henry McMaster has put forth the nomination of Brigadier General Robin Stilwell as the next Adjutant General of South Carolina. This decision comes as Major General Van McCarty prepares to retire after an impactful tenure since 2019.
Hailing from Greenville, South Carolina, Stilwell is no stranger to service and commitment. A proud graduate of The Citadel in 1985, he has spent over 34 years dedicated to the South Carolina National Guard. Currently, he serves as the director of the Joint Staff, where he plays a crucial role in managing joint staff programs and is instrumental in supporting domestic response and homeland defense operations.
Stilwell’s experience is extensive. He has held various command positions, including leadership roles with the 218th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade and the 188th Infantry. His military journey has taken him around the world, with deployments to Afghanistan, Kosovo, and Kuwait at various points. For instance, during Operation Enduring Freedom from 2007 to 2008, he took on the role of Embedded Team Trainer in Afghanistan, showcasing his on-ground leadership and tactical skills.
His dedication didn’t stop there. Stilwell also held the position of Chief of Staff for the Multinational Battle Group – East in Kosovo from 2012 to 2013. More recently, from 2020 to 2021, he served as the Deputy Chief of Staff Forward for U.S. Army Central Command in Kuwait, proving his ability to manage operations effectively even in challenging environments.
His accolades speak volumes about his commitment and competence in the field. Among his numerous awards are the Legion of Merit with Two Oak Leaf Clusters and the Bronze Star, highlighting his excellence throughout his military career.
Beyond his military career, Stilwell is also a lawyer and is currently a Circuit Court Judge for the Thirteenth Judicial Circuit in South Carolina. His educational background is impressive, with a Bachelor of Arts in English from The Citadel and a Juris Doctor from the University of South Carolina. Additionally, he is a distinguished graduate of the U.S. Army War College, where he earned a Master of Arts in strategic studies.
At 58 years old, Stilwell resides in Greenville with his wife, Charlotte, and their three children. He is enthusiastic about this nomination and is ready to take on the mantle of leadership.
In his remarks, Stilwell underscored the necessity of supporting National Guard members and their families, reflecting a strong commitment to nurturing the military community in South Carolina. However, his appointment is not finalized yet, as it needs the green light from the South Carolina Senate.
Governor McMaster took a moment to express gratitude toward Major General Van McCarty for his leadership during his time in office. Stilwell’s extensive experience and unwavering dedication make him a promising nominee to carry on the legacy as leader of the South Carolina National Guard.
As the state of South Carolina looks forward to a new chapter under Brigadier General Robin Stilwell, the energy and optimism are palpable. His deep-rooted connection to the community, coupled with a rich military background, positions him well to serve South Carolina and its National Guard.
The next few weeks will be crucial, and everyone is eagerly anticipating the Senate’s confirmation as they prepare to embrace new leadership in their military ranks.
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