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South Carolina National Guard In The News

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.
South Carolina National Guard collaborate with Colombian Engineers [Image 1 of 3]
7/30/2025
U.S. Army Soldiers with the South Carolina Army National Guard’s 117th Engineer Battalion collaborate with Colombian Navy and Marine Corps engineers during a four-day Subject Matter Expert Exchange in Colombia focusing on Expeditionary Engineering, Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response, July 25, 2025. This Subject Matter Expert Exchange fostered teamwork and shared best practices for operating in austere environments. The partnership between South Carolina National Guard and the Republic of Colombia was established in July 2012 and remains a cornerstone of readiness and security cooperation. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Major Lisa Allen).
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.
20250717 - South Carolina National Guard conducts Upstate ESGR Boss Lift flights [Image 1 of 7]
7/22/2025
U.S. Army Soldiers assigned to 59th Aviation Troop Command (59th ATC), South Carolina Army National Guard and volunteers of Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) conduct the annual Upstate “Boss Lift” day at the South Carolina National Guard Army Aviation Support Facility (AASF2), Greenville, South Carolina, July 17, 2025. The event is an opportunity for civilian employers of South Carolina National Guard members to see and experience for a day some aspects of the National Guard Soldier’s life. Aircrews and maintenance personnel showcased the capabilities of the aircraft assigned to AASF2, CH-47F Chinook and the LUH-72B Lakota helicopters, night vision goggles, and aircrew individual-survival equipment. During the event, employers and ESGR personnel were taken for a familiarization flight on the two aircraft. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. 1st Class Roberto Di Giovine)
20250717 - South Carolina National Guard conducts Upstate ESGR Boss Lift flights [Image 5 of 7]
7/22/2025
U.S. Army Soldiers assigned to 59th Aviation Troop Command (59th ATC), South Carolina Army National Guard and volunteers of Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) conduct the annual Upstate “Boss Lift” day at the South Carolina National Guard Army Aviation Support Facility (AASF2), Greenville, South Carolina, July 17, 2025. The event is an opportunity for civilian employers of South Carolina National Guard members to see and experience for a day some aspects of the National Guard Soldier’s life. Aircrews and maintenance personnel showcased the capabilities of the aircraft assigned to AASF2, CH-47F Chinook and the LUH-72B Lakota helicopters, night vision goggles, and aircrew individual-survival equipment. During the event, employers and ESGR personnel were taken for a familiarization flight on the two aircraft. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. 1st Class Roberto Di Giovine)
20250717 - South Carolina National Guard conducts Upstate ESGR Boss Lift flights [Image 2 of 7]
7/22/2025
U.S. Army Soldiers assigned to 59th Aviation Troop Command (59th ATC), South Carolina Army National Guard and volunteers of Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) conduct the annual Upstate “Boss Lift” day at the South Carolina National Guard Army Aviation Support Facility (AASF2), Greenville, South Carolina, July 17, 2025. The event is an opportunity for civilian employers of South Carolina National Guard members to see and experience for a day some aspects of the National Guard Soldier’s life. Aircrews and maintenance personnel showcased the capabilities of the aircraft assigned to AASF2, CH-47F Chinook and the LUH-72B Lakota helicopters, night vision goggles, and aircrew individual-survival equipment. During the event, employers and ESGR personnel were taken for a familiarization flight on the two aircraft. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. 1st Class Roberto Di Giovine)
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.
Palmetto Guardian - Chap Chat Ep 6
7/2/2025
In this episode of Chap Chat, Chaplain John Denny welcomes Lt. Col. Javier Yudice, the state training officer and battalion commander of the 4th Battalion, 118th Infantry Regiment in the South Carolina National Guard. Yudice shares insights into his dual roles and the responsibilities that come with them, particularly focusing on the significance of combined arms operations, which involve heavy military equipment like tanks and bradleys. The conversation touches on leadership philosophy and the importance of resilience and spiritual strength among military personnel. Tune in to hear Yudice’s experiences and the stories that shape his worldview and leadership approach.
Continuing a Legacy as Pvt. Frey Becomes Fourth-Generation Service Member
7/1/2025
COLUMBIA, S.C. – Surrounded by family, history, and tradition, U.S. Army Pvt. Dylan Frey was sworn into the Florida Army National Guard by his mother, U.S. Army Maj. Karla Evans, South Carolina National Guard in Columbia, South Carolina, July 1, 2025, marking the start of his chapter in a proud, multigenerational legacy of military service.
Palmetto Guardian - Episode 173
6/22/2025
On this episode of the Palmetto Guardian, we continue our conversation with Maj. Gen. Robin Stilwell, the 30th Adjutant General of South Carolina. We delve into the significance of family support in the military, the value of relationships, and leadership insights. Gen. Stilwell shares personal reflections and advice for service members, emphasizing the importance of enjoying and appreciating the present moment in their military careers. He encourages listeners to focus on making a difference rather than solely seeking promotions or higher ranks. Tune in for valuable insights from experienced leaders in the South Carolina National Guard. The Palmetto Guardian is hosted by Staff Sgt. Chelsea Weaver and Maj. Karla Evans with the South Carolina National Guard Public Affairs office.
South Carolina National Guard Helicopter Aquatic Rescue Team
6/15/2025
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
6/15/2025
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)
Whitmire Honors Decades of National Guard Service with Dedication Ceremony
6/15/2025
Former Soldiers and their families, along with community members and local officials, gathered on June 14, 2025, at the Whitmire Armory to honor its historic legacy and the citizen Soldiers who trained within its walls. The occasion marked the dedication of a commemorative plaque recognizing the generations of Soldiers who have passed through the Armory since 1961.
Whitmire Honors Decades of Service with Dedication Ceremony
6/15/2025
Maj. Gen. Robin B. Stilwell, adjutant general of South Carolina was one of the former Soldiers gathered at the Whitmire Armory to honor its historic legacy and the citizen-Soldiers who trained within its walls, Whitmire, South Carolina, June 14, 2025. Family members, friends, along with community members and local officials attended. In 1961, Company C, 1st Battalion, 118th Infantry Regiment, consisted of 102 men. Today, Retired Command Sgt. Maj. Billy Rhodes from Clinton and Private 1st Class Billy Joe Tankersley from Greenwood are the only living representatives from the 1961 "Whitmire Guard" unit that once called the Whitmire Armory home. The occasion marked the dedication of a commemorative plaque recognizing the generations of service members who have passed through the armory since 1961. (U.S. Army National Guard video by Maj. Karla N. Evans)
Whitmire Honors Decades of Service with Dedication Ceremony
6/15/2025
Maj. Gen. Robin B. Stilwell, adjutant general of South Carolina was one of the former Soldiers gathered at the Whitmire Armory to honor its historic legacy and the citizen-Soldiers who trained within its walls, Whitmire, South Carolina, June 14, 2025. Family members, friends, along with community members and local officials attended. In 1961, Company C, 1st Battalion, 118th Infantry Regiment, consisted of 102 men. Today, Retired Command Sgt. Maj. Billy Rhodes from Clinton and Private 1st Class Billy Joe Tankersley from Greenwood are the only living representatives from the 1961 "Whitmire Guard" unit that once called the Whitmire Armory home. The occasion marked the dedication of a commemorative plaque recognizing the generations of service members who have passed through the armory since 1961. (U.S. Army National Guard video by Maj. Karla N. Evans)
Whitmire Honors Decades of Service with Dedication Ceremony
6/15/2025
Maj. Gen. Robin B. Stilwell, adjutant general of South Carolina was one of the former Soldiers gathered at the Whitmire Armory to honor its historic legacy and the citizen-Soldiers who trained within its walls, Whitmire, South Carolina, June 14, 2025. Family members, friends, along with community members and local officials attended. In 1961, Company C, 1st Battalion, 118th Infantry Regiment, consisted of 102 men. Today, Retired Command Sgt. Maj. Billy Rhodes from Clinton and Private 1st Class Billy Joe Tankersley from Greenwood are the only living representatives from the 1961 "Whitmire Guard" unit that once called the Whitmire Armory home. The occasion marked the dedication of a commemorative plaque recognizing the generations of service members who have passed through the armory since 1961. (U.S. Army National Guard video by Maj. Karla N. Evans)
Whitmire Honors Decades of Service with Dedication Ceremony
6/15/2025
Maj. Gen. Robin B. Stilwell, adjutant general of South Carolina was one of the former Soldiers gathered at the Whitmire Armory to honor its historic legacy and the citizen-Soldiers who trained within its walls, Whitmire, South Carolina, June 14, 2025. Family members, friends, along with community members and local officials attended. In 1961, Company C, 1st Battalion, 118th Infantry Regiment, consisted of 102 men. Today, Retired Command Sgt. Maj. Billy Rhodes from Clinton and Private 1st Class Billy Joe Tankersley from Greenwood are the only living representatives from the 1961 "Whitmire Guard" unit that once called the Whitmire Armory home. The occasion marked the dedication of a commemorative plaque recognizing the generations of service members who have passed through the armory since 1961. (U.S. Army National Guard video by Maj. Karla N. Evans)