South Carolina National Guard helps administer COVID-19 vaccines in SC The South Carolina National Guard was called in to help administer COVID-19 vaccines to civilians for the first time in history. Author: Devin Johnson Updated: 9:28 PM EST January 8, 2021 MURRELLS INLET, S.C. — To support the South Carolina pandemic effort, the National Guard has stepped in to administer COVID-19 vaccines at hospitals requiring extra support. "Giving the vaccine to civilians is a big day," said Major General Brad Owens. "It's the first time in history." The South Carolina National Guard vaccination program has answered calls from two hospitals already that have needed extra support. Friday, they vaccinated more than 300 people at the Tidelands Georgetown Memorial Hospital. On Thursday, they vaccinated more than 70 people at the Tidelands Waccamaw Community Hospital in Murrells Inlet.