La. Guard aviation unit receives medal at post-deployment ceremony
By Spc Duncan Foote, Louisiana National Guard Public Affairs Office
NEW ORLEANS – The Louisiana National Guard’s 1st Assault Helicopter Battalion, 244th Aviation Regiment, held a post-deployment awards ceremony at the Baton Rouge Marriott, August 4.
More than 80 Soldiers from A, D and E Companies of the 1-244th AHB returned home from a recent deployment to Fort Belvoir, Viginia, where they provided airlift capabilities to official personnel in the Capital Region in support of the Joint Emergency Evacuation Plan.
The official party for the ceremony included Maj. Gen. Thomas Friloux, adjutant general of Louisiana, Command Sgt. Maj. Clifford Ockman, LANG command senior enlisted leader, Capt. Stephen Gancarcik, commander of A Company, 1-244th, and 1st Sgt. Aaron Mahnke, first sergeant of A Company, 1-244th.
The citizen-soldiers were awarded the Louisiana National Guard War Cross Medal during the ceremony. This prestigious medal honors service members who enter active duty and serve honorably for at least 90 days during a national emergency, a presidential call-up to protect national security interests, or a period beginning with the declaration of war or the onset of hostilities.
“Thank you to every Soldier and family member for your service and your many sacrifices made throughout this deployment,” said Friloux. “I’m proud to be on the same team as you. You truly are what makes the Louisiana National Guard great, and we appreciate all accomplishments you made during this mission.”
During their deployment, the 1-244th utilized 150,000 gallons of aviation fuel, accumulating approximately 1,700 flight hours. In addition, these Soldiers supported air defense systems in the Washington D.C. area and completed missions associated with the State of the Union by providing aerial transport for many United States government officials.
“Mission accomplished,” stated Friloux. “Job well done.”
The 1-244th has deployed overseas multiple times since 9/11 and is a key part of Louisiana’s state emergency operations. The unit has provided air evacuations and support for almost every state emergency. The 1-244th also provides air support for the annual Christmas tree drop in the New Orleans area to help slow coastal erosion.