Mullikin celebrates law enforcement officers from across South Carolina
By W. Thomas Smith Jr.
Dr. Tom Mullikin, director of the S.C. Department of Natural Resources – and one of 60 of the most influential (impactful) military leaders from S.C. recognized during Veterans Month whosonthemove.com/ – was the keynote speaker for this year’s SCPCL Banquet held Saturday evening, Nov. 15, at the S.C. Department of Agriculture building in West Columbia, S.C.
An NRA-affiliate organization sponsoring competitive shooting matches at various police ranges around the Palmetto State, the SCPCL was established in 1976 to provide S.C. law enforcement officers with firearms training beyond their regular agency training through competition between agencies.
“It’s an honor to stand before a room filled with those who have devoted their lives to service, integrity, and excellence — not only in protecting our communities but in continually honing the skills that make that service possible,” said Mullikin, who in addition to his myriad directorship responsibilities is now a certified SCDNR game warden (having completed Class I Law Enforcement certification in September). “Tonight, we celebrate not only competition, but camaraderie, discipline, and professionalism — the hallmarks of the SCPCL since its founding nearly 50 years ago.”
Highlights of Mullikin’s remarks follow: “A group of dedicated law enforcement officers [founders of the SCPCL] recognized a need — not just for competition, but for continual improvement. They understood that proficiency with a firearm was not about trophies or prizes. It was about responsibility, confidence, and survival.”
According to Mullikin: “The SCPCL provides officers across South Carolina — federal, state, county, municipal, industrial, reserve, and retired — a platform to sharpen their skills and learn from one another. In these matches — from seven yards to fifty, from revolver to semi-auto — you see the blending of precision and pressure. Every shot is a test of training, patience, and presence of mind.”
Quoting President Theodore Roosevelt’s now famous line, “The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena… who strives valiantly… who spends himself in a worthy cause,” Mullikin added: “That’s what each of you does every time you step onto the range or into the field.The Police Pistol Combat discipline has never been just about scores. Its true purpose is to enhance real-world performance under stress.”
Mullikin’s remarks continue: “Every officer here knows — the day may come when that training means the difference between life and death. The Greek Philosopher Archilochus opined and the Navy SEALs have embraced the saying that, “You don’t rise to the occasion — you fall to the level of your training. That’s why your participation in leagues like this is so vital. It’s about readiness that goes beyond the basic requirements of any agency qualification. It’s about knowing that when it matters most, your focus, accuracy, and judgment are second nature.”
Mullikin contends that the SCPCL represents something far deeper than competition and training. “It’s connection,” he said. “In an age where policing can sometimes feel divided by jurisdiction or agency, the League brings us together. Federal officers shooting beside local deputies. Retirees mentoring the next generation. Departments that might rarely cross paths finding common ground on the firing line.”
Mullikin, an accomplished global expedition leader, former U.S. Army officer, and retired commanding general of the S.C. State Guard, reminded his audience of the words of U.S. Army Gen. George S. Patton: “If a man does his best, what else is there?” Mullikin added: “That same spirit is alive here — men and women doing their best, side by side, in friendship and respect. Patton also said, ‘A pint of sweat will save a gallon of blood,’ which is why your long efforts of practice are so worthy and important.”
Pointing to “friendships forged” through the SCPCL,” the SCDNR Director said those very friendships would indeed “outlast badges and careers,” adding, “They remind us that while our uniforms may differ, our mission is the same: to serve, protect, and return home safely.”
Reflecting on his career prior to SCDNR as both a state and federal Prosecutor and as Special Assistant to the Lead Prosecutor of the 9/11 Terrorists, Mullikin said: “[Those experiences] taught me that precision in law enforcement requires training to the highest level. A characteristic that defines this organization and each of you. It is a lifelong pursuit.”
Mullikin added: “Every round fired on the line sharpens not just skill, but confidence. Every match strengthens the bond between brothers and sisters in blue. And every handshake tonight reminds us that the strength of S.C. law enforcement lies not in one agency or one badge — but in the unity of all who wear it. As law enforcement officers, you know that the greatest weapon is not the one we carry — it’s the discipline, restraint, and courage we carry within. That’s what this League stands for.”
For more information about the S.C. Department of Natural Resources, visit https://www.dnr.sc.gov/.
– SCDNR Director Tom Mullikin is flanked by SCDNR law enforcement officers (and brothers) Lance Corporal Cameron Baker and Staff Sergeant Marion “Trey” Baker.