U.S.S. South Carolina

In August 1998, more than 100 sailors from the U.S.S. South Carolina were mobilized into a volunteer resources organization designed to channel the vessel's manpower back into the Hampton Roads community. Command leaders were committed in helping as many community organizations as possible. The outstanding vision of these leaders resulted in the U.S.S South Carolina sailors volunteering over 3,000 community service hours while providing a rewarding work experience for the crew.

One of the striking characteristics of U.S.S. South Carolina's volunteer efforts is the balance among several diverse activities. Mentor and education assistance volunteer programs include several local elementary and middle schools. The Hampton Roads Cerebral Palsy Association, the Southeastern and Tidewater Food Banks and the Naval Medical Center in Portsmouth are only a few of the community health and wellness volunteer programs in which the sailors participate. Local civic activities and community volunteer efforts include the Princess Anne Sports Complex, the Virginia Marine Science Museum and several chapters of the YMCA.

Recently, U.S.S. South Carolina sailors were featured on WB33 television during a public service advertisement that recognized the outstanding mentor efforts at Brighton Elementary and Corporate Landing Middle Schools. Other notable contributions completed during 1998 were Haven House, where they completed 145 hours of service and the Virginia Beach Soccer Complex, where they completed a total of 409 hours of service. U.S.S. South Carolina continues to be a major influence in the community, emphasizing volunteerism and self-improvement.