Historic Charleston military units dedicating new flag pole

CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP) — Military units formed in the 19th century are helping dedicate a new flag pole at a park in downtown Charleston during a Veterans Day ceremony.

The Washington Light Infantry, dating to 1807, and the Sumter Guards, founded in 1819, are helping dedicate the flag pole in Marion Square on Wednesday. The pole is dedicated to all veterans who have served the country.

The Sumter Guards Board of Officers was established back in 1822 to cooperate with the City of Charleston to maintain what was called The Green as a public mall and military training ground. What was known as The Green is now Marion Square.