COLUMBIA, S.C.- On Thursday, May 16, 2024, Dan Beatty, who was appointed Chairman of the South Carolina Military Base Task Force in 2020, was presented by Governor McMaster with the prestigious Order of the Palmetto following the announcement of his retirement from the Task Force. The Order of the Palmetto is the state's highest civilian honor. Beatty served more than 25 years in the U.S. Army and is also the Chief Compliance Officer for the South Carolina Education Lottery.

"Daniel Beatty has long been a top leader in South Carolina's military community, and throughout his life, he has embodied the values of service, leadership, and dedication," said Governor Henry McMaster. "His service to our state and nation is commendable, and it makes him more than deserving of our state's highest civilian honor – The Order of the Palmetto."   

"I’m truly humbled and honored to have received the Order of Palmetto from Governor McMaster. It’s a privilege to work with such extraordinary leaders supporting the missions of our military organizations across South Carolina," said Beatty. "It’s truly remarkable when you consider that South Carolina has the 10th most service members with our 68,000, and the military injects over $34.3 billion into the state’s economy annually. The phenomenal members who comprise the Military Base Task Force’s Executive Committee are amazing and talented individuals who interface between the community and installations ensuring opportunities and challenges are anticipated and addressed." 

The South Carolina Military Base Task Force is an advisory board consisting of Governor appointed representatives from military communities across the state, as well as the Adjutant General and the Secretary of Commerce. The Task Force was created to enhance the value of military installations, facilities, and the quality of life for military personnel located in South Carolina.

"When I came to South Carolina after I retired from the Army there were two names that I got within the first 48 hours of being on the ground and Dan Beatty was one of those names that I had to meet," said SCDVA Secretary Todd B. McCaffrey. "I express to Dan my appreciation for his selflessness, his service, and his commitment to the State of South Carolina and his continued service and commitment to our servicemembers across South Carolina."

An announcement on a new chairman has yet to be officially made. To learn more about the South Carolina Military Base Task Force, click here.