Letter to the editor: Using military rank in campaigning demonstrates poor judgment

Signs have begun appearing around Sumter for a House District 67 candidate that include a military rank. While the UCMJ (Uniform Code of Military Justice) cannot prohibit a retiree from including military rank in political activities, doing so is in very poor taste.

Military retirees are rightly proud of our service and rightly cite that experience when entering politics, but we should not use a military rank as a title or put it on political materials. President Eisenhower didn't run as a general. Local Sen. Jeff Zell did not use his rank while campaigning. Alan Wilson does not go by his National Guard rank while campaigning for governor. It blurs the line between the military and civilian politics, while demonstrating poor judgment.

Intentional or not, there is an implication that Rep. Murrell Smith does not support the military and veterans adequately, which is absolutely not the case. Allow me to remind Sumter of a few highlights from his time in office:

- Unwavering support for Shaw AFB and McEntire JNGB, including protecting Shaw AFB from encroachment that could affect future basing decisions.

- Spearheaded the elimination of state income taxes on military retirement income.

- Provided key support for the recently opened VA clinic in Sumter.

- Singlehandedly brought the Patriot Village Veterans Home to Sumter when it was originally slated to become Columbia's second such facility.

- Spearheaded state financing and placement of the South Carolina Military Museum in Sumter.

These are just a few highlights to remind Sumter of how having a powerful representative at the Statehouse has helped our community. Having one with such patriotic moral clarity and devotion to the military community is not something to take for granted.

Re-elect Rep. Murrell Smith on Nov. 3, 2026!

NEIL 'MONGO' NEADERHISER

Chairman, Veterans for Murrell