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Mission

To expose our nation’s youth to the technological environments and positive civilian and military role models found on Active, Guard, and Reserve military bases and installations, nurture a winning network of collaborators, and build mutual loyalty within our communities, by providing 25 hours of exemplary hands-on STEAM instruction and activities that meet or exceed the national standards.

School Districts Served

  • Kershaw County School District
  • Lexington County School District
  • Lexington-Richland School District
  • Richland School District One
  • Richland School District Two
  • Sumter County School District
  • Private Schools

Contact

Mandy “MJ” Smathers
Director, STARBASE Swamp Fox
amanda.smathers@scmd.sc.gov
803-206-5793
dodstarbase.org

Testimonials

“This program allows for science to come alive for students. They do hands-on experiments, practice engineering and design skills, and even get to tour McEntire to learn about different military and STEM careers. Many of our students would never get to experience these in a regular classroom, which makes this program invaluable.”
-Mrs. Marthers, Doby’s Mill Elementary

“The rocket launch!! This was my favorite, it’s very fun! Shooting the rocket into the sky and chasing it is so fun!” -Brilee

“I think it’s an awesome way to learn. It’s fun and educational. We learned about engineering and design.” -Lizzie

"
I love going to STARBASE because of Eggbert. We had to protect him from cracking with all these supplies so we could launch him across the room. We named ours Hummpy Dumpty the 3rd. We had so much fun.” -Veronica

“My favorite part of the STARBASE program is that the teachers here explain things carefully, they never leave people out in anything.” -Lorisha-Mae

DOD STARBASE - Swamp Fox

STARBASE Swamp Fox has been serving students in the surrounding area since 2003. STARBASE Swamp Fox is located with the 169th Fighter Wing at Joint Base McEntire in Eastover, South Carolina. STARBASE Swamp Fox uses hands-on, minds-on learning to raise the interest and improve the knowledge and skills of at-risk youth in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The program inspires students and provides a memorable experience. FY23 Program Highlights:

  • Served 1,105 students during the 2022-2023 school year.
  • Participated and supported various community outreach events such as: Sumter School District STEMFEST, Springdale Elementary School STEM Night, and the 169th Fighter Wing Family Day.
  • Served as the special guest speaker for Doby Mills Elementary School Beta Club induction ceremony and Bookman Road’s Elementary School graduation ceremony.