La. Guard opens doors to new Lake Charles Readiness Center
By Staff Sgt. David C. Kirtland, Louisiana National Guard Public Affairs Office
NEW ORLEANS – The Louisiana National Guard officially opened the doors to the new Lake Charles Readiness Center near the Chennault International Airport during a ribbon-cutting ceremony, Oct 18.
The $29.4 million facility, which broke ground in June 2022, will serve as the new home for Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 3rd Battalion, 156th Infantry Regiment, 256th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, and H Company, 199th Brigade Support Battalion, comprising approximately 139 Soldiers.
“The signage, the building itself and the campus-like atmosphere are all indicative of where I want the Louisiana National Guard to be across the State as we continue to modernize the force,” said Maj. Gen. Thomas C. Friloux, adjutant general of Louisiana. “I know the Soldiers will appreciate this facility for many years to come.”
The previous armory, in use since the 1950s, had its replacement plans expedited after Hurricane Laura blew down the eastern wall of its drill hall on the morning of August 27, 2020.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed the relationships we’ve built and look forward to those that we will grow, so that we can continue to collaborate and synergize our efforts for the common good,” said Kevin Melton, Chennault International Airport executive director. Chennault International Airport, which manages the grounds where the new facility is located, plays a crucial role in supporting the LANG by providing a strategic location that enhances operational readiness and capabilities.
The new facility spans 48,232 square feet and features a design that separates administrative and office areas. It includes individual vaults for each unit, as well as shared spaces such as an assembly hall, kitchen, locker rooms and classrooms.
“This new facility will not only benefit the 256th Brigade,” said Lt. Col. Nicholas Acosta, administrative and executive officer of the 256th IBCT. “It will benefit multiple units around the State, especially during all-hazard emergencies.”
The modern building features a highly energy-efficient design, including a solar-powered system that supplies energy to part of the facility, and a more than 12,000-square-foot maintenance bay to conduct unit-level maintenance of vehicles and equipment.