Columbia, South Carolina – A new chapter has begun for the South Carolina National Guard as U.S. Army Brigadier General Robin B. Stilwell was officially confirmed by the South Carolina Senate as the state’s 30th Adjutant General on March 26, 2025. This significant appointment, following Governor Henry McMaster’s nomination, places Stilwell at the helm of a vital state institution, succeeding U.S. Army Major General Van McCarty.
Brigadier General Stilwell brings a robust and diverse background to his new role. A native of Greenville, South Carolina, he commenced his military journey through the ROTC program at The Citadel, receiving his commission as an Infantry Officer in 1985. His career is marked by extensive service, including deployments to Afghanistan, Kosovo, and Kuwait, and command positions within the South Carolina National Guard. Notably, he has held roles such as Director of the Joint Staff for the South Carolina National Guard, and Deputy Commanding General for Reserve Affairs at the U.S. Army War College. Beyond his military accomplishments, Stilwell is also a South Carolina Circuit Court Judge, and holds degrees from The Citadel, the University of South Carolina, and the U.S. Army War College.
The Adjutant General’s role in South Carolina is multifaceted and crucial, encompassing the leadership of the South Carolina Army and Air National Guard, the Emergency Management Division, the State Guard, and the Youth ChalleNGe Academy.1 Stilwell now bears the responsibility of ensuring the readiness and effectiveness of these diverse components, serving both state and nation.
In his initial statements following confirmation, Stilwell emphasized his top priority: the safety and effectiveness of the Military Department’s personnel. He pledged to focus on the well-being and success of those he now leads, recognizing that their dedication and professionalism are the foundation of the state’s defense and emergency response capabilities.
“The men and women of the South Carolina National Guard are the heart of our state’s ability to respond to any challenge,” Stilwell stated. “My commitment is to ensure they have the resources, training, and support they need to excel in their missions, both at home and abroad.”
The South Carolina National Guard plays a pivotal role in responding to natural disasters, supporting law enforcement, and deploying in defense of the nation. Stilwell’s leadership will be critical in maintaining and enhancing this readiness. Furthermore, his oversight of the Emergency Management Division will be crucial in ensuring the state’s preparedness for future emergencies.
The Youth ChalleNGe Academy, another key component of the Adjutant General’s responsibilities, provides at-risk youth with the opportunity to develop essential life skills and achieve academic success. Stilwell’s support for this program will have a lasting impact on the lives of young South Carolinians.
As Brig. Gen. Robin B. Stilwell assumes his new role, the state looks forward to his leadership and dedication in serving the people of South Carolina. His commitment to the well-being of his personnel and his focus on readiness and effectiveness will undoubtedly shape the future of the South Carolina National Guard.
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