Guard commander wears many hats

Rep. James Smith (D- Columbia) added another hat to that of politician and lawyer after being named commander of the local National Guard Armory. There are some who don't like the assortment of delicacies on their dinner plate to touch or mix.

In the case of state Rep. James E. Smith of Columbia, he simply can't help the fact that his steak sits in close proximity to his mashed potatoes, beans and broccoli.

His daily schedule is much the same, having to mesh quality time with family along with being a public official, maintaining his own private practice and serving as a member of our country's armed forces.

Add the role of being commander of the National Guard unit in Cherokee County to his list of duties.

The talented 40-year-old was recently named to the post after returning from a 15- month deployment in Afghanistan and the 218th Infantry Brigade's effort in Operation Enduring Freedom.

"Honestly, it's the best time of your life when you're serving as company commander," said Smith, who currently holds the title of captain in the South Carolina Army National Guard. "I'm blessed to be given such an opportunity."

Since returning from combat, the lawmaker has spent much of his time back on the traveling circuit, giving a firsthand account of his time overseas.

"A few days ago I was in Greenwood, and this is the first of my two speaking engagements today (Tuesday at the Gaffney Rotary Club)," Rep. Smith said. "But I feel it's important for me to share with everyone the work their sons and daughters are doing in war zones like Iraq and Afghanistan.

"They're part of the state's largest deployment of soldiers since World War II. Their parents ought to know what's happening and be proud."

First elected in 1996 to represent District 72 (Richland County) in the state House of Representatives, Smith quickly ascended the ranks, becoming House Minority Leader in 2002.

He was re-elected to the House in 2006, and currently serves on the state Judiciary Committee.

Around the time his political career was getting started, Smith was laying the foundation for his law firm, Smith, Ellis & Stuckey, P.A.

However, his dedication to his country has never waned despite his abundance of duties and distractions during the course of a day.

After serving for eight years as an officer in the Judge Advocate General Corps (JAG) with the S.C. Army National Guard, he resigned and then re-enlisted in order to pursue a commission as an Infantry Officer. Since returning, he has been awarded the Combat Infantryman's Badge, the Bronze Star and Purple Heart.

Though Smith's gotten used to being a man of two and three hats, he said it was quite interesting being a lawmaker and a soldier in a war zone.

"It was funny that I was presiding over District 72 while also being overseas," Smith said, "but it gave me a different perspective that is critical to our state and how we live."

In addition to his day jobs, Smith makes an impact in the local community, previously serving as chair for the Public Policy Committee of the United Way's "Success By 6" initiative and being a S.C. First Steps board member.

He has even hinted at a possible campaign for governor in 2010, though the state representative is far from making up his mind.

"The good news about it is that we have a bunch of qualified individuals that are giving this a lot of consideration," he said. "But I'm looking at what's best for me and my family and our future. We want to make sure it's the right choice."

But right now, the veteran lawmaker said he'll settle for the company of his soldiers at the local armory.

"Everyone seems happy to see me here, which is a good sign," Smith said. "They've been good, and we'll enjoy doing exactly what it is that soldiers do."