BERKELEY COUNTY, S.C. — Berkeley County will receive $1.8 million in state funding to purchase two new firefighting vessels and a heavy-duty tow vehicle, an investment local and federal officials say will significantly strengthen emergency response capabilities across South Carolina’s Lowcountry. The funding, awarded through the South Carolina Department of Veterans’ Affairs Military Enhancement Fund, is intended to improve maritime emergency response while supporting both civilian safety and nearby military operations. 📣 STAY IN THE LOOP 📣📰 Sign Up for Berkeley County, SC Newsletter ⬅️Rep. Nancy Mace, whose district includes Berkeley County, supported the grant application by submitting a letter highlighting the county’s strategic importance and its proximity to Joint Base Charleston. Officials say the upgrades will help reduce response times and improve coordination during fires, chemical spills, and other emergencies on local waterways. Berkeley County plays a key role in South Carolina’s defense infrastructure, and officials say enhanced maritime capabilities are increasingly important as both commercial and military activity along Lowcountry waterways continues to grow.