After tragedy struck on 9/11, I wanted to help my country. I decided to enlist in the South Carolina State Guard (SCSG) so I could help my state and my community. In 2005, I joined the SCSG and am now the G-6 (Chief Information Officer) for the 3rd Brigade.

At the SCSG, we train to help out in the event of natural disasters, participate in community activities, and even help other states in national emergencies. Outside of regular drills we work on a volunteer basis, so we all have separate day jobs and are located in different parts of the state. With no central place to collaborate, our official communication was done through personal or alternate work email accounts. This was not only inefficient, but also posed an information security risk.

Shortly after Google Apps launched in 2007, we started using it to communicate with each other more efficiently -- no matter where we're located. Not only is it great for email, but we use Google Sites to distribute sensitive information securely to our staff and the commanders. We compile training materials, videos, and forms and publish them to a restricted Google site where people can access the information in a central place. It's like our own intranet with really simple control and management.

We're constantly accessing our personnel listings, regulations, and manuals through our phones as well. The vast majority of us have smartphones, so we can chat within Google Talk and of course email wherever we are. Even when deployed and in action, we are connected to each other and the information we require to execute our mission.

We also utilize the shared calendars to keep organized. It allows us to see the schedules of each individual, as well as the schedules of the major brigades and units. It makes coordinating with hundreds of State Guardsmen pretty simple.

With Google Apps, we've increased our efficiency and organization, and we can communicate while deployed and in separate locations. But most importantly, we've been able to better serve our community and keep the Palmetto State safe.