Washington Light Infantry

Company B of the 118th Infantry, South Carolina National Guard
Active	1807-
Country	United States
Branch	South Carolina Army National Guard
Nickname(s)	"Washington Light Infantry"
Engagements	War of 1812 Seminole Wars Mexican War American Civil War World War I World War II
Commanders
Notable commanders	Captain {later General} Archibald Gracie III

The Washington Light Infantry is a military and social organization located in Charleston, South Carolina. Founded in 1807, it is one of the oldest of these militia groups still active in the United States.

Following the American Revolutionary War, tensions lingered between the fledgling United States and Great Britain, and many Americans feared another war. In cities across the new country, citizens organized themselves into private militia groups. Several were established in Charleston, including the Washington Light Artillery, which was named for George Washington. The company was first mustered into active service during the War of 1812, but did not see combat as British troops did not invade South Carolina. In 1827, the widow of Colonel William Washington presented the company with his old Revolutionary War battleflag.

In 1836, the company was activated and sent to Florida to combat hostile Seminole Indians during the Seminole Wars. They guarded the city of St. Augustine. Six years later, the company helped establish the South Carolina Military Academy. During the Mexican-American War, the company became part of the Palmetto Regiment and marched into Mexico City in the army of Winfield Scott.

When South Carolina seceded from the Union in early 1861, the Washington Light Artillery reformed into three distinct companies and served in the Confederate Army during the American Civil War. One company became Company A of the Hampton Legion. A total of 414 men served in the unit during the war, 114 of which were killed.

...
Wikipedia