Skip to content
Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Youtube

Support for our

Drill instructors of Delta Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, and Papa Company, 4th Recruit Training Battalion, present their new Marines with Eagle, Globe and Anchors during the emblem ceremony Sept. 7, 2013, at the Iwo Jima flag raising statue on Parris Island, S.C. This ceremony marks the end of the 54-hour culminating event of training known as the Crucible and is the first time recruits are called Marines. Delta and Papa Companies are scheduled to graduate Sept. 13, 2013. Parris Island has been the site of Marine Corps recruit training since Nov. 1, 1915. Today, approximately 20,000 recruits come to Parris Island annually for the chance to become United States Marines by enduring 13 weeks of rigorous, transformative training. Parris Island is home to entry-level enlisted training for 50 percent of males and 100 percent for females in the Marine Corps. (Photo by Lance Cpl. MaryAnn Hill)

Beaufort’s Military Presence: Strengthening Our Region

Beaufort, South Carolina, is proud to be home to three major military installations—Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, and Naval Hospital Beaufort. These institutions not only play a vital role in our national defense but also serve as pillars of the local economy and community. With thousands of active-duty personnel, veterans, and civilian employees, the military contributes significantly to Beaufort’s workforce, innovation, and cultural fabric. The regional chamber is committed to supporting these installations and fostering strong partnerships that enhance quality of life, economic development, and mutual growth across the Lowcountry.

The Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, the Marine Corp Recruit Depot Parris Island, and the Naval Hospital Beaufort provide $2.4 billion to the local economy and employ nearly 20,000 people. Read more about each below.

Untitled design - 2025-05-29T195207.877

MCAS Beaufort

The Mission of Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort is to continue supporting establishment operations for 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, attached II MEF units, and Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island/Eastern Recruiting Region in order to set the conditions for the enduring success of our supported commands and their missions

Untitled design - 2025-05-29T195227.936

MCRD Parris Island

The Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island is home to two commands: the Training and Education Command, and the Recruiting Command. The transformation from civilian to Marine is accomplished by the core values and discipline instilled during the 12-week basic training that culminates in the legendary Crucible. MCRD Parris Island trains 49 percent of the males and 100 percent of the females entering the Marine Corps. Foreign military also train at Parris Island.

Untitled design - 2025-05-29T195255.520

Naval Hospital Beaufort

Naval Hospital Beaufort is located in the Town of Port Royal and provides general medical, surgical and urgent care services to all active duty Navy and Marine Corps personnel, as well as retired military personnel and all military dependents residing in the Beaufort area.

The hospital’s mission is to keep the Navy and Marine Corps family ready, healthy, and on the job.

About-Us-Page-1

Military Enhancement Committee

The Military Enhancement Committee (MEC) serves as a vital liaison between the Beaufort community and its military installations. Committed to protecting and promoting the long-term sustainability of Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, and Naval Hospital Beaufort, the MEC works collaboratively with local, state, and federal partners to support mission readiness and enhance quality of life for military personnel and their families.

Through strategic advocacy, community engagement, and infrastructure planning, the committee ensures Beaufort remains a strong, supportive home for our nation's defense.

Scroll To Top