WHEREAS, the World Trade Center in New York and the Pentagon in Washington have experienced severe damage due to what appears to be acts of terrorism; and

WHEREAS, the State of South Carolina has numerous facilities that may be seen as target facilities and areas; and

WHEREAS, the full extent of the terrorists' acts, and the consequences thereof, around the United States are presently unknown.

NOW, THEREFORE, pursuant to the powers conferred upon me by the Constitution and Laws of the State of South Carolina, I hereby direct that the South Carolina Emergency Operations Plan be placed into effect and that the State Emergency Operations Center be activated and all prudent preparations be taken at the individual, local and state levels to protect against acts of terrorism or threats within the State. I further direct that the Adjutant General place up to 50 certain critical need personnel of the South Carolina National Guard on state active duty, and further direct that the Adjutant General, in consultation with the Governor and in coordination with the Emergency Preparedness Division, place the remainder of the South Carolina National Guard on standby.