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
22 May 2026
Na Koa Exchange - Royal Guard History and Heritage
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/
1 May 2026
Na Koa Exchange - Hawaiʻi National Guard Family Readiness Programs
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/
Reach and audience
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YouTube views
194,827
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
1 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 44 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
54
Social presence
0
YouTube
82
Engagement
0
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