Episodes

  • Palmetto Guardian - Episode 181

    Palmetto Guardian - Episode 181
    Apr 3 2026
    In this episode of the Palmetto Guardian, Staff Sgt. Weaver welcomes back Nicole Davis, the Education Services Specialist for the South Carolina Army National Guard. Nicole discusses important updates regarding education benefits, specifically focusing on the recent changes to Army Regulations for Education (AR 621-5), effective March 19, 2026. Key points include the requirement for command approval for soldiers seeking federal tuition assistance or credentialing assistance, and the importance of requesting funding well in advance—at least 60 days prior to class start dates. Nicole emphasizes the need for timely submissions to ensure funding is secured, outlining the approval timeline for supervisors. Tune in for essential information that could impact your educational opportunities! The Palmetto Guardian is hosted by Staff Sgt. Chelsea Weaver with the South Carolina National Guard Public Affairs office. 00:00:00 - Intro 00:00:56 - What changes have been made to education benefits? 00:01:46 - What is the deadline for Supervisor or Commander approval? 00:03:53 - How early can a Soldier apply for federal tuition assistance? 00:04:05 - How early can Soldiers apply for credentialing assistance? 00:05:04 - What changes have been made regarding unsuccessful grades? 00:06:53 - Can I appeal a suspension? 00:08:06 - What if I had unsuccessful grades prior to the start of the new regulations? 00:09:21 - Who is eligible to use credentialing assistance? 00:11:25 - How do I get started with federal tuition assistance? 00:12:30 - Do commissioned officers incur a service obligation if they use federal tuition assistance? 00:13:36 - What is the amount of funding that I am able to use? 00:14:45 - If I have a bachelors degree but have not used TA can I use it to get a second bachelors degree? 00:15:25 - Can federal tuition assistance be used for a doctorate degree? 00:15:49 - Why would I be recouped if I passed my class with a C? 00:16:09 - Why doesn’t my ArmyIgnited GPA match my school GPA? 00:18:25 - Why can’t I find my term dates when trying to apply for FTA? 00:19:15 - ArmyIgnited says requests are missing grades, how do I update my grades? 00:21:33 - Can I use FTA with other financial aid? Resources: Mrs. Nicole Davis - 803-299-5318, nicole.l.davis56.civ@army.mil website: https://www.scguard.ng.mil/Resources/Education-Office/
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    28 mins
  • Palmetto Guardian - Episode 180

    Palmetto Guardian - Episode 180
    Mar 10 2026
    In this episode of the Palmetto Guardian, Staff Sgt. Chelsea Weaver and her team head to the field to cover the Best Warrior Competition, where Soldiers from across the state compete for the title of Best Warrior. Competitors take on tough events like the ruck march, PT test, obstacle course, marksmanship, and more. Tune in to hear directly from the competitors and get a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to earn the title. The Palmetto Guardian is hosted by Staff Sgt. Chelsea Weaver with the South Carolina National Guard Public Affairs office.
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    21 mins
  • Palmetto Guardian - Episode 179

    Palmetto Guardian - Episode 179
    Mar 10 2026
    In this episode of the Palmetto Guardian Podcast, Staff Sgt. Chelsea Weaver sits down with 1st Sergeant Fidel Byrd and Sgt. 1st Class Shawn Dantzler from the South Carolina National Guard Counterdrug Task Force to break down what the program is, how it supports local law enforcement, and how prevention plays a major role in reducing substance misuse across the state. From free training opportunities and analyst support to youth outreach and community partnerships, this conversation highlights how the Guard is making an impact right here at home. The Palmetto Guardian is hosted by Staff Sgt. Chelsea Weaver with the South Carolina National Guard Public Affairs office.
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    23 mins
  • Palmetto Guardian - Episode 178

    Palmetto Guardian - Episode 178
    Aug 3 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.
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    30 mins
  • Palmetto Guardian - Chap Chat Ep 7

    Palmetto Guardian - Chap Chat Ep 7
    Jul 30 2025
    In this episode of Chap Chat, Chaplain John Denny welcomes Maj. Dena Ogden, the deputy state training officer for the South Carolina National Guard. Together, they explore Maj. Ogden's inspiring journey into military service, fueled by her deep love for her country and the powerful influence of her father's own military career. Maj. Ogden opens up about the unimaginable pain of losing her son during deployment, sharing the trials and tribulations she faced during that profoundly difficult time. This is part one of a two-part series, so be sure to stay tuned for the second part of her powerful story.
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    29 mins
  • Palmetto Guardian - Episode 177

    Palmetto Guardian - Episode 177
    Jul 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.
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    29 mins
  • Palmetto Guardian - Episode 176

    Palmetto Guardian - Episode 176
    Jul 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.
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    21 mins
  • Palmetto Guardian - Episode 175

    Palmetto Guardian - Episode 175
    Jul 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.
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    16 mins