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South Carolina National Guard In The News

351st Aviation Support Battalion conducts change of command ceremony [Image 1 of 9]
9/19/2025
South Carolina National Guard Soldiers assigned to the 351st Aviation Support Battalion (ASB), 59th Aviation Troop Command, South Carolina Army National Guard, participate in a change of command ceremony hosted at the South Carolina Army Aviation Support Facility, Joint National Guard Base McEntire, Eastover, South Carolina, Sep. 7, 2025. During the ceremony U.S. Army Lt. Col. Jeff M. Couch, outgoing commander of the 351st ASB, relinquished command to the incoming commander, U.S. Army Maj. Thomas J. Johnson. A change of command ceremony is an event built on tradition, symbolism, and heritage, and culminates with the passing of the colors, which symbolizes transfer of command authority and leadership from a commander to the next. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. 1st Class Roberto Di Giovine)
228TH TTSB hosts 9-11 Remembrance and First Responders Salute ceremony [Image 6 of 8]
9/19/2025
South Carolina National Guard Soldiers assigned to the 228th Theater Tactical Signal Brigade (TTSB) participate in the 9/11 Remembrance and First Responders Salute, a ceremony hosted by 228th TTSB in conjunction with the City of Greenville and the University of South Carolina (USC) to remember and honor the casualties of 9/11, South Carolina Army National Guard Readiness Center, USC Upstate campus, Spartanburg, South Carolina, Sep 11, 2025. The ceremony culminated with a moment of silence, and the laying of a remembrance wreath presented by U.S. Army Maj. Jacinta W. White representing the 228th TTSB. Cadets of the Army ROTC Southern Guard Battalion presented the colors at the beginning of the ceremony. USC Upstate Chancellor Bennie L. Harris and USC Vice Chancellor for University Advancement RJ Gimbl delivered their respective remarks during the event. (U.S. Army National Guard photo Sgt. 1st Class Roby Di Giovine)
228TH TTSB hosts 9-11 Remembrance and First Responders Salute ceremony [Image 2 of 8]
9/19/2025
South Carolina National Guard Soldiers assigned to the 228th Theater Tactical Signal Brigade (TTSB) participate in the 9/11 Remembrance and First Responders Salute, a ceremony hosted by 228th TTSB in conjunction with the City of Greenville and the University of South Carolina (USC) to remember and honor the casualties of 9/11, South Carolina Army National Guard Readiness Center, USC Upstate campus, Spartanburg, South Carolina, Sep 11, 2025. The ceremony culminated with a moment of silence, and the laying of a remembrance wreath presented by U.S. Army Maj. Jacinta W. White representing the 228th TTSB. Cadets of the Army ROTC Southern Guard Battalion presented the colors at the beginning of the ceremony. USC Upstate Chancellor Bennie L. Harris and USC Vice Chancellor for University Advancement RJ Gimbl delivered their respective remarks during the event. (U.S. Army National Guard photo Sgt. 1st Class Roby Di Giovine)
228TH TTSB hosts 9-11 Remembrance and First Responders Salute ceremony [Image 1 of 8]
9/19/2025
South Carolina National Guard Soldiers assigned to the 228th Theater Tactical Signal Brigade (TTSB) participate in the 9/11 Remembrance and First Responders Salute, a ceremony hosted by 228th TTSB in conjunction with the City of Greenville and the University of South Carolina (USC) to remember and honor the casualties of 9/11, South Carolina Army National Guard Readiness Center, USC Upstate campus, Spartanburg, South Carolina, Sep 11, 2025. The ceremony culminated with a moment of silence, and the laying of a remembrance wreath presented by U.S. Army Maj. Jacinta W. White representing the 228th TTSB. Cadets of the Army ROTC Southern Guard Battalion presented the colors at the beginning of the ceremony. USC Upstate Chancellor Bennie L. Harris and USC Vice Chancellor for University Advancement RJ Gimbl delivered their respective remarks during the event. (U.S. Army National Guard photo Sgt. 1st Class Roby Di Giovine)
351st Aviation Support Battalion conducts change of command ceremony [Image 7 of 9]
9/19/2025
U.S. Army Lt. Col. Jeff M. Couch, the 351st Aviation Support Battalion’s (ASB) outgoing commander, passes the colors to the incoming commander, U.S. Army Maj. Thomas J. Johnson during a change of command ceremony held at the South Carolina National Guard Army Aviation Support Facility, McEntire Joint National Guard Base, Eastover, South Carolina, Sep. 7, 2025. Couch, an AH-64 Apache and UH-60 Black Hawk pilot, assumed command of the 351st ASB in June 2022. Johnson, a CH-47 Chinook pilot, will officially assume command of the 351st on October 1, 2025. The 351st ARB is part of the 59th Aviation Troop Command, South Carolina Army National Guard, and is located in Sumter, South Carolina. The passing of the colors is the culminating event of a change of command ceremony, as it represents the transfer of authority from one commander to the next, an act of continuity of command and leadership in a military unit. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. 1st Class Roberto Di Giovine)
Chaplain cares for Soldiers during D.C. Safe and Beautiful mission
9/12/2025
U.S. Army Capt. Jess Foster, a chaplain, with 4th Battalion, 118th Infantry Regiment, South Carolina National Guard speaks about the many ways a chaplain cares for Soldiers on a typical Sunday in Washington D.C., Sept. 7, 2025. (For privacy reasons, the counseling scene in this video is simulated.) About 2,300 National Guard members are supporting the D.C. Safe and Beautiful mission providing critical support to the D.C. Metropolitan Police Department in ensuring the safety of all who live, work, and visit the District. (U.S. Air National Guard video by Senior Master Sgt. Carl Clegg)
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9/11/2025
U.S. Soldiers with the South Carolina National Guard patrol areas around the nation’s capitol, to include the Lincoln Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Audi Filed, Nationals Park, Navy Yard Park and metro station, Waterfront and also attend Protestant and Catholic religious services in Washington D.C., Sept. 4-7, 2025. About 2,300 National Guard members are supporting the D.C. Safe and Beautiful Task Force providing critical support to the D.C. Metropolitan Police Department in ensuring the safety of all who live, work, and visit the District. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Master Sgt. Carl Clegg)
Soldiers aid police in nabbing robbery suspect
9/4/2025
U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Hardy Bogue, Spc. Noah Lampinen, Spc. Chris Elston and Spc. John Stewart, all with 4th Battalion, 118th Regiment, South Carolina Army National Guard, assisted D.C. Metropolitan Police Department officers in the arrest of a robbery suspect in Washington, D.C., Aug. 31, 2025. About 2,300 National Guard members are supporting the D. C. Safe and Beautiful mission providing critical support to the Metropolitan Police Department in ensuring the safety of all who live, work and visit the District. (U.S. Air National Guard video by Senior Master Sgt. Carl Clegg)
South Carolina Guard Member Assists Woman Choking
8/30/2025
What began as a routine lunch at the Anderson Metro Diner quickly transformed into a life-saving event thanks to the quick thinking and decisive action of Sergeant Major Michael Binninger. On August 28, 2025, Binninger and a friend were dining when they observed a man urgently patting his wife’s back.
DVIDS: Palmetto Guardian - Chap Chat Ep 8
8/10/2025
In this episode of Chap Chat, Chaplain John Denny continues his conversation with Maj. Dena Ogden, who shares her deeply personal journey through tragedy and the hope that emerged from it. Maj. Ogden discusses the numbness she experienced following her loss and the three months she spent in isolation, grappling with her emotions. She recalls the support she received from her school community, including a heartfelt album filled with memories from her son’s classmates. As she returned to work, Maj. Ogden describes the challenges of reintegrating into her role while coping with her grief, highlighting the kindness of her colleagues who checked in on her during this difficult time. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on resilience and the power of community support in the face of adversity.
Palmetto Guardian - Episode 178
8/2/2025
On this episode of the Palmetto Guardian we talk with Karma Simmons, the acting Integrated Primary Prevention Program Manager, to discuss the Defense Organizational Climate Survey (DEOCS). Karma explains what the DEOCS survey is, its purpose, and the importance of participation from service members and DoD civilians. The survey aims to gather feedback on command climate and culture, providing insights into the day-to-day experiences of personnel. Tune in to learn more about how the DEOCS can influence the work environment and enhance overall organizational effectiveness. The Palmetto Guardian is hosted by Staff Sgt. Chelsea Weaver with the South Carolina National Guard Public Affairs office.
1222nd Engineer Company conducts claymore and linear charge detonation
8/2/2025
U.S. Soldiers with the 1222nd Engineer Company, 178th Engineer Battalion, 117th Engineer Brigade, South Carolina Army National Guard, prepare and detonate linear charges July 14, 2025 at McCrady Training Center, Eastover, South Carolina. This was part of their annual training used to instruct the Soldiers on proper technique and procedures of demolition live fire to maintain proficiency. (U.S. Army National Guard video by Staff Sgt. Tim Andrews)
1222nd Engineer Company conducts claymore detonation
8/2/2025
U.S. Soldiers with the 1222nd Engineer Company, 178th Engineer Battalion, 117th Engineer Brigade, South Carolina Army National Guard, detonate M18A1 Claymore mines July 15, 2025 at McCrady Training Center, in Eastover, South Carolina. This was part of their annual training used to properly set up and detonate claymores to maintain capabilities and lethality. (U.S. Army National Guard video by Staff Sgt. Tim Andrews)
1222nd Engineer Company conducts linear charge detonation
8/2/2025
U.S. Soldiers with the 1222nd Engineer Company, 178th Engineer Battalion, 117th Engineer Brigade, South Carolina Army National Guard, prepare and detonate linear charges July 14, 2025 at McCrady Training Center, Eastover, South Carolina. This was part of their annual training used to instruct the Soldiers on proper technique and procedures of demolition live fire to maintain proficiency. (U.S. Army National Guard video by Staff Sgt. Tim Andrews)
Palmetto Guardian - Episode 177
7/30/2025
On this episode of the Palmetto Guardian, we talk with Nicole Davis, the Education Services Specialist for South Carolina National Guard, to discuss important education benefits available to service members. The focus is on federal tuition assistance (FTA) and credentialing assistance (CA), emphasizing the eligibility requirements for FTA, including the necessity of having a common access card (CAC) and not being flagged for any actions. Nicole highlights the importance of completing the Army Ignited 101 training, which outlines the FTA process. This episode aims to equip service members with the essential information they need to apply for education benefits ahead of the upcoming semester, ensuring they take advantage of these valuable opportunities. The Palmetto Guardian is hosted by Staff Sgt. Chelsea Weaver with the South Carolina National Guard Public Affairs office.
Palmetto Guardian - Episode 176
7/22/2025
On this episode of the Palmetto Guardian, we talk with Spc. Jazmine Squire, the GI Bill Manager for South Carolina National Guard, to discuss the various education benefits available through the GI Bill. We explore the different types of GI Bills, including Chapter 1606, Post 9-11, and Chapter 30, highlighting the key differences in eligibility requirements and payment structures. Spc. Squire explains that Chapter 1606 requires a six-year contract, a high school diploma, and completion of initial active duty training, while the Post 9-11 Bill demands qualifying service time under specific orders. Tune in to learn more about how these benefits can support your educational goals! The Palmetto Guardian is hosted by Staff Sgt. Chelsea Weaver with the South Carolina National Guard Public Affairs office.
Palmetto Guardian - Episode 175
7/11/2025
On this episode of the Palmetto Guardian we talk with retired Sgt. Maj. Paul Mead, the Education Service Officer for the South Carolina National Guard, to discuss the College Assistance Program (CAP). CAP is a state tuition program funded by lottery money that helps cover costs for in-state schools, including bachelor’s degrees and academic certifications. Paul explains the benefits of CAP, including its recent increase to $12,000 per academic year, which equates to $4,000 per semester for full-time students attending fall, spring, and summer sessions. So tune in to learn how CAP can support your educational goals! The Palmetto Guardian is hosted by Staff Sgt. Chelsea Weaver with the South Carolina National Guard Public Affairs office.
South Carolina National Guard Helicopter Aquatic Rescue Team
7/11/2025
Soldiers with the South Carolina National Guard Helicopter Aquatic Rescue Team flying a UH-72 Lakota helicopter helped rescue an injured hiker alongside partner agencies. (Video by Burke County Rescue)
South Carolina National Guard Helicopter Aquatic Rescue Team
7/11/2025
Soldiers with the South Carolina National Guard Helicopter Aquatic Rescue Team flying a UH-72 Lakota helicopter helped rescue an injured hiker alongside partner agencies. (Video by Burke County Rescue)
The Palmetto Guardian Episode 174
7/5/2025
On this episode of the Palmetto Guardian, Staff Sgt. Chelsea Weaver takes listeners to Camp Bob Cooper to share the exciting experiences of the campers and staff during the Child and Youth Programs 2025 Youth Camp. Known as "Hollywood," Chelsea gives an insider's look at the camp's vibrant atmosphere and introduces the junior counselors (JCs) who are learning new skills throughout the week. Tune in to hear interviews with campers and staff as they share their unique stories, highlighting the teamwork, fun, and personal growth that make the camp experience unforgettable. The Palmetto Guardian is hosted by Staff Sgt. Chelsea Weaver with the South Carolina National Guard Public Affairs office.