WHEREAS, the President of the United States of America, in the wake of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, has determined that the security of the nation's air transportation system requires new and aggressive measures to enhance and ensure airline and airport safety at the nation's commercial airports; and

WHEREAS, the President of the United States of America, pending the implementation of a comprehensive and permanent federal system of airline and airport security which is now being developed, has requested that the Governors of the 50 states immediately authorize the deployment of sufficient troops of the National Guard to provide a visible, armed deterrence at airport security checkpoints, to monitor and reinforce existing airport checkpoint structures and operations, and to provide support and assistance to airport security personnel as necessary or as directed by appropriate federal officials.

NOW, THEREFORE, pursuant to the powers conferred upon me by the Constitution and laws of the State of South Carolina, I hereby direct the Adjutant General to place sufficient numbers of the South Carolina National Guard on state duty to adequately provide a visible, armed deterrence at South Carolina's commercial airports, to monitor and reinforce existing airport checkpoint structures and operations, and to provide support and assistance to airport security personnel as necessary or as directed by appropriate officials of the federal government.

This Order shall take effect immediately.

GIVEN UNDER MY HAND AND THE GREAT SEAL OF THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA, THIS 28th DAY OF SEPTEMBER 2001.

JIM HODGES
GOVERNOR

Last Updated: Tuesday, July 7, 2009 at 10:33 A.M.