A pair of friends with Charleston roots rose to the highest ranks of the armed forces

From first jobs to sports, to volunteer service clubs and plays, this pair of friends did everything together.

CHS-Veterans.png

The two said that as kids, they were always playing outside and enjoyed making friends at the local roller-skating rink.

Photo by Ken Scar via ClemsonNews

From good friends to the high ranks. On this Veterans Day, we’re taking a look back at US Navy Rear Adm. George Bresnihan and US Army Reserve Brig. Gen. Louis Mitchell’s journey, which began right here in the Holy City.

CHS-Veterans.png

After high school, the duo moved into Johnstone Hall as undergraduates and were roommates for the next four years.

Photo provided by ClemsonNews

ClemsonNews reports the two grew up together in West Ashley, where they played basketball, football, and rode bikes around their neighborhood. Get this at 14, the duo teamed up to start a lawn-mowing business.

The two motivated each other, excelled in school, attended Clemson together, and when they each landed in the armed forces, climbed to the ranks — becoming two of the fewer than 25 African American general and flag-grade officers in their respective branches. Both have served their country for more than three decades.

From West Ashley to the high ranks, they’ve made the Holy City proud. Learn more about their story and where they are today.

More from CHStoday
Broaden your horizons and indulge in elevated fare with a tasting menu from one of these Charleston restaurants.
Celebrate Black History Month with these community events around the Holy City.
The Darius Rucker Big Band Gala will offer a unique night of music, with part of the proceeds benefiting the Charleston community.
Dip your toes into “phillumeny,” aka the practice of collecting matchbooks, while you explore CHS and support local businesses at the same time.
Several Charleston restaurants are offering special Lunar New Year menus.
Spending Valentine’s Day at home? Here’s how you can still have a special night without breaking the bank, hiring a sitter, or even leaving your couch.
Get in on the outdoor-lover fun or elevate your SEWE experience with one of these several events happening around the Holy City.
Bareo, a new concept from the team behind Kultura, is opening on Spring Street and aims to be a spot to celebrate good food and friendship.
We’ve rounded up the top things to do and places to eat if you plan to spend Valentine’s Day in Charleston.
Whether you’re planning a wild weekend of wildlife interaction or a quiet evening admiring fine art, The Southeastern Wildlife Exposition has something for everybody.