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SCANG Spotlight, Tech. Sgt. Chad Peebles

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Ashleigh Pavelek
  • 169th Fighter Wing
MCENTIRE JOINT NATIONAL GUARD BASE, S.C. --  U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Chad Peebles, assigned to the 169th Security Forces Squadron, has always been in the role of helping people.

"It feels good to be the first line of defense," said Peebles, the NCOIC of intelligence and investigations and the alternate wing anti-terrorism officer for the squadron. "If there is no one to protect the base, then the Air Force will not have any defenses to launch."

Peebles, a Camden native, worked as a firefighter at the City of Columbia's Headquarters Station for eight years before pursuing his military career.

After considering a tour in U.S. Marine Corps, Peebles served six months in the Navy's delayed entry program. Upon speaking with a South Carolina Air National Guard recruiter, Peebles decided that the Air Force was the right branch for him to be able to "serve in a combat role, and have a better quality of life."

"I joined for travel and adventure," said Peebles. "I have been on three deployments and multiple temporary duty assignments."

Peebles served for three years on title-10 orders working security forces at nearby Shaw Air Force Base.

"My message for other Airmen is, education is key for success, always do your best and plan to train those who serve under you because they will have your position one day."

As an active-shooter instructor, Peebles joined forces with the Army and worked in tandem with them to improve their anti-terrorism and active-shooter programs. He established a rapport that encourages both branches of the military to train with each other on a consistent basis benefiting the total force working at McEntire JNGB.

As the alternate Wing Anti-terrorism Officer, Peebles encourages military members and civilians to use random anti-terrorism measures, also known as RAMs. He reminds everyone that the best way to support anti-terrorism efforts is to:

-report unusual findings or activities

-remain unpredictable

-don't have a routine

-display a sense of purpose

-remain observant of your surroundings

"The anti-terrorism program is a way to make a difference and help people protect themselves," said Peebles. "Terrorism is never going to go away; it will only evolve."
Education is a personal core value of Peebles, and he believes in teaching others to succeed in their goals.

Peebles achieved a bachelor's degree in business from Ashford University in 2014 and earned his associate's degree in the Community College of the Air Force.  He is currently working on completing his master's degree in business, attending the American Military University. 

Peebles conveys the same amount of dedication and enthusiasm to the Security Forces Squadron at McEntire.

"The best part about being a Swamp Fox is knowing that I am protecting the people and making the mission happen," said Peebles.

When Peebles takes a break from protecting and serving, he enjoys staying fit to fight with CrossFit and relaxing with some off-shore fishing.

He is a volunteer firefighter in Lugoff and a youth leader for his church.

"I love serving close to home," said Peebles. "The Guard is a great opportunity to serve your country and state, while still having time to spend with your family."