From South Carolina: Joe Wilson was born in Charleston, South Carolina, and graduated from the local high school.

Education: He went to Washington & Lee University for his undergraduate degree and the University of South Carolina for his law degree.

Law Career: Before he entered politics, Wilson was a real estate lawyer and helped start the law firm Kirkland, Wilson, Moore, Taylor & Thomas.

 Long Military Service: Wilson served in the U.S. Army Reserves and the South Carolina Army National Guard for 31 years, retiring as a Colonel in 2003.

Government Work: He worked with Senator Strom Thurmond and Congressman Floyd Spence and was also Deputy General Counsel at the Department of Energy.

South Carolina Senate: Wilson served for 17 years in the South Carolina State Senate, where he had perfect attendance and chaired the Transportation Committee.

Congressional Roles: In Congress, Wilson is on the House Foreign Affairs Committee and the House Armed Services Committee, focusing on national defense and international relations.

Military Family: All four of Wilson’s sons have served in the military, and he has nine grandchildren. His sons are also Eagle Scouts.