About COMESC

History

South Carolina has a rich history when it comes to the military. Over the years when other states have been considered for base closure, South Carolina has remained fairly untouched. The state enjoys and benefits from a number of military installations. South Carolina is one of a few states who can boast that all five branches of service are represented in the state.

    

It is for this reason the Council on Military Education in South Carolina or COMESC came into existence. In the 1970's the Commissioner for Higher Education in South Carolina asked to meet with the Education Services Officers (ESOs) in South Carolina . The purpose was twofold. One was for the ESOs to meet each other. The second was to brainstorm a forum to improve communication and encourage cooperative and coordinated efforts between post-secondary education programs and the military service members in South Carolina . At first the council was composed of just government personnel, but quickly it was realized that members from the colleges who supported military education should also be included.

The present day COMESC has not changed a great deal. Our purpose is still the same: to enhance programs for military personnel who are stationed in South Carolina . The organization also hopes to promote understanding of the military, state, and institutional roles in providing education to the military and to provide a forum for facilitating professional development to military educators.