“That noise you hear is the sound of freedom”

In today’s post 9/11 world, the men and women of the United States military train and serve to protect our great nation and to ensure the United States maintains a position of prominence and respect around the world.  As the home of three major military installations, and more than 17,000 active duty military members along with their families who live and work in the area, the residents of Beaufort and Port Royal take great pride in the instrumental role the county plays in America’s defense.  Along with our men and women serving in uniform, thousands of civilian workers fill vital support roles that allow our bases to remain operational and successful in preserving our freedom along with spreading liberty to nations around the world.

Parris Island Recruit Depot

It all begins here!  The road to becoming a United States Marine commences on Parris Island for 20,000 young men and women every year.  The drill instructors spend countless hours training and transforming all male recruits east of the Mississippi and all female recruits into “The Few, The Proud…” America’s future Marines.

Situated along the Port Royal Sound, Parris Island is a landmark in the Beaufort Community.  The Marine Corps gained control of the island in 1891 and began molding young recruits into steely-eyed warriors in 1915. 

The Parris Island Museum recounts local area and military history, along with a guided tour of the base.  Visitors may also witness the color and precision of graduation ceremonies, which are held on Fridays, year-round.

Marine Corps Air Station--Beaufort

The Marine Corps acquired the 6,900 acres of land along U.S. 21 that make up MCAS Beaufort in the late 1950’s.  The field was designated MCAS Beaufort in 1960.  The Air Station is home to Marine Aircraft Group-31, one of the largest aircraft groups in the world, consisting of approximately 4,200 Marines and Sailors.  Today, the Air Station provides joint operational training to hone the skills of MAG-31’s Marine and Naval aviators. 

MAG-31’s reputation of tactical proficiency, along with its size, has earned MCAS Beaufort the title “Fightertown.”

Beaufort Naval Hospital

The Beaufort Naval Hospital meets the needs of the area’s active duty military members, retired military personnel, and military dependents by providing general medical, surgical, and emergency services.

Built in 1949 the Naval Hospital sits on 127 acres of land in the Town of Port Royal, which, along with the hospital, also houses the Naval Heritage Park and the seashell/mortar ruins of Fort Frederick, built in 1732.