By Sgt. Danny Hough, Louisiana National Guard Public Affairs Office
PINEVILLE, La. – The Louisiana National Guard’s 199th Regiment (Regional Training Institute) held a graduation ceremony to commission four new officers from the Officer Candidate School at LANG Training Center Pineville, April 12, 2025.
“First things first, congratulations on achieving this significant milestone in your life, and thank you for your service to our Nation and State,” said Maj. Gen. Thomas Friloux, the adjutant general of Louisiana, as he addressed Class 66A. “Understand the great responsibility that our Nation is bestowing upon you today. This is a great responsibility, and one not to be taken lightly.”
Class 66A began its eight-week Winter Accelerated Officer Candidate School course in February at Fort McClellan, Alabama.
“Today is a momentous day. It is a day we gather to honor our journey — one that has been marked by sacrifice, determination and unwavering commitment to service,” said 2nd Lt. Donald Kogel III of the 769th Brigade Engineer Battalion, 256th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, and class representative. “Today we join the ranks of those who answered the call to lead — to take an oath not only to protect and defend, but to lead with honor, courage and commitment.”
During the ceremony, candidates were recognized for excellence in physical fitness, academics and leadership. Second Lt. Tyroy Lanus, of the 528th Engineer Battalion, 225th Engineer Brigade, received the National Guard Association of Louisiana Physical Fitness Award for achieving the highest physical fitness score. Second Lt. Alicia Ray, of the 1-244th Assault Helicopter Battalion, 204th Theater Airfield Operations Group, earned the 199th Regiment (RTI) Leadership Award for demonstrating outstanding leadership. Second Lt. Donald Kogel III received the 199th Regiment (RTI) Academic Award and an Army Achievement Medal for attaining the highest academic score.
After receiving their diplomas, the officer candidates were administered the Oath of Office by Maj. Chad Scallan, operations officer for the 769th Engineer Battalion. The ceremony concluded with each newly commissioned officer receiving their second lieutenant rank insignia, pinned by family members.
