Enjoy Southern hospitality in the stunning seaside town of Beaufort. Take a walk back in time and let a horse-drawn carriage take you through the streets of the historic district, one of only three National Historic Landmark Districts in South Carolina. Soak up the history of tabby ruins, historic forts, elegant homes and majestic plantations.
Military in Beaufort
Many military families have chosen to make Red Cedar Place at Bluffton Park their home for its close proximity to the bases. Beaufort is known for its several military installations known as "Tri-command" which include the Marine Corps Air Station north of Beaufort City, the Naval Hospital in Port Royal and the Marine Corps Recruit Depot on Parris Island. Employing some 1,800 civilians and bringing 6,500 active duty personnel to the Beaufort, SC, area, these military establishments contribute greatly to the economy and welfare of the South Carolina Lowcountry.
MCAS Beaufort, also known as "Fightertown," is an important and historically colorful base. It is home to Marine Aircraft Group 31, one of the world's largest and most proficient aircraft groups.
Locally, MCAS pilots perform in air shows. They provide volunteers for numerous Beaufort community events, supporting the local Adopt-a-School programs, the Chamber of Commerce Military Family Appreciation Day in May, which Red Cedar Place at Bluffton Park was proud to sponsor, the Beaufort Water Festival in July, the Beaufort Shrimp Festival in October, and the Beaufort Veterans' Day Observance Memorial Ceremony in November.
Historical Involvement
Rich in the history of the South Carolina Lowcountry, the air station site was once home to several plantations dating as far back as 1779. In 1960, it was designated a Marine Corps Air Station. Playing a key role in national and worldwide training operations and exercises, the Air Station has 3.9 million square yards of runways, taxiways and aprons. MCAS is designated as an alternate landing site for the space shuttles.
Parris Island
Officially designated a Marine Corps Recruit Depot on November 1, 1915, Parris Island continues to train enlisted Marines. Considered by many to be the toughest military training in the world, you will be amazed by the spirit and dedication of the young men and women who take up the challenge of Boot Camp to become a United States Marine. With graduations taking place almost every week, MDRD is a hub of activity. The Parris Island Museum can be found by visiting the Parris Island Museum, where artifacts dating back to 1564 can be found.
