COLUMBIA, S.C. - Gov. Mark Sanford asked the state Supreme Court to consider his personal reasons for wanting to stay in the U.S. Air Force Reserves while he serves as governor of South Carolina.

In a rare opportunity Wednesday to speak directly to justices considering a lawsuit against him, Sanford told the court that serving in the military is something he had become interested in while serving in Congress.

A South Carolina resident is suing the governor saying the state Constitution allows the state's top officer to serve in and command a state militia only.

Sanford's lawyers are arguing that the definition of militia has greatly changed over the years to include temporary military forces other than active-duty units.

Sanford told the justices that his service provides an example to his four sons. "I think it makes me a better father," Sanford told the court.

Sanford sat during arguments in his case, taking notes, before he asked to address the court. Chief Justice Jean Toal told Sanford it was extremely rare for any defendant to do that, but allowed him to speak.

The court was expected to rule at a later date.