Na Koa Exchange - (Boots Wings and More) Hawai‘i State Department of Defense Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Na Koa Exchange - Maj Gen Joseph R. Harris II Jun 12, 2026

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In this episode of Na Koa Exchange Maj. Gen. Joseph R. Harris II speaks about his long career for enlisted A1C to Master Sergeant then to from Captain to Major General

Na Koa Exchange - Royal Guard History and Heritage May 22, 2026

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Host Jeff Hickman, State of Hawai‘i Department of Defense Public Affairs director, sits down with three guests representing different eras and perspectives of the Hawaiʻi Air National Guard’s Royal Guard: Randy Lum (one of the unit’s earliest members and former Kāpena Moku), Franklin Ho (former member and Kāpena Moku ) and Dr. Niklaus Schweitzer, former executive director of ʻIolani Palace, author, historian, and University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa professor.Together, they share powerful stories about the origins, evolution and enduring legacy of the Royal Guard from its formation under Col. Walter Judd to its modern role in ceremonial events, state functions and historic commemorations.The conversation explores:• The founding and early days of the Royal Guard in the 1960s• The development of ceremonial protocol at ʻIolani Palace• The cultural and historical significance of Hawaiian-language commands• Major events including the 100th anniversary of the overthrow commemoration• Unique missions, including international ceremonial duties and state honors• The Royal Guard’s continued role in preserving Hawaiian history and identityThis episode offers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at a unit that bridges military service and cultural heritage in Hawaiʻi.Learn more about the Royal Guard: https://dod.hawaii.gov/blog/history-of-the-royal-guard/

Na Koa Exchange - Hawaiʻi National Guard Family Readiness Programs May 01, 2026

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In this episode of the Na Koa Exchange podcast, host State of Hawai‘i Department of Defense Public Affairs Director, Jeff Hickman, speaks with Rod and Malery DuPont from the Military and Family Readiness program for the Hawai‘i Army and Air National Guard.The discussion highlights the core mission of Military and Family Readiness: serving as a “one-stop shop” for resources that support service members and their families. Programs include:• Financial counseling and employment assistance• Child and youth programs• Deployment support (including the Yellow Ribbon Program)• Emergency family assistance• Community resource connectionsMilitary and Family Readiness programs exist to ensure Guard members and their families are supported in all situations — deployment, emergencies or everyday life. No one should have to navigate these challenges alone.Learn more at: https://dod.hawaii.gov/hawaii-guard-ohana/home/state-family-program/

MG Macaraeg Retirement Jan 07, 2026

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A discussion with MG Macaraeg just before his retirement

The sinking of the USAT Royal T. Frank Aug 04, 2025

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Join us with Lt Col. Kawika Hosea as we discuss a forgotten moment in World War II history the sinking of the USAT Royal T. Frank and the survivors the "Torpedo Gang"

Announcing the 2025 DEOCS Jul 21, 2025

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Today we talk with the IP3 Team about the upcoming DEOCS survey

New designer and the new pūpūkahi Jul 14, 2025

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Introducing our new designer Ruben Duldulao and the redesign of the pūpūkahi

New Deputy and their history project Jul 08, 2025

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In this episode we introduce our new deputy Rachel Blair and look at their project making the Hawai‘i Department of Defense history available on our website.

Episode 1 2 Chief's Nine wrap-up Dec 16, 2024

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Chief Fox and Jeff talk about what they learned during the production of the "Chief's Nine

Episode 11 - Chief's Nine - Dealing with Uncertainty Dec 09, 2024

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