La. Guard welcomes new brigadier general
By Spc. Duncan Foote, Louisiana National Guard Public Affairs Office
NEW ORLEANS – The Louisiana National Guard welcomed its newest general officer, Brig. Gen. John Plunkett, during an official promotion ceremony at Army Aviation Support Facility #1 in Hammond, Louisiana, Oct. 4.
Maj. Gen. Thomas C. Friloux, adjutant general of Louisiana, presided over the event. He praised Plunkett for his mentorship of aviation commanders and strategic influence throughout national military aviation associations, furthering the modernization of Army Aviation within the National Guard.
The event, attended by numerous distinguished military personnel, including retired Maj. Gen. Barry Keeling, former assistant adjutant general; Brig. Gen. Michael Greer, current assistant adjutant general; Brig. Gen. Jason Mahfouz, current assistant adjutant general – Army; retired Brig. Gen. Patrick Bossetta, former assistant adjutant general – Army; Chief Warrant Officer 5 Robin Williams, command chief warrant officer of the LANG; Command Sgt. Maj. Clifford Ockman, LANG command senior enlisted leader; Command Sgt. Maj. Sud Robertson, senior enlisted advisor for the Army component of the LANG; along with many other honored guests and family members, marked a significant milestone in Plunkett’s esteemed military career.
The promotion ceremony, conducted with full military honors, celebrated Plunkett’s exceptional leadership, unwavering commitment, and outstanding service to the Nation.
Plunkett initially enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1983 before joining the Louisiana National Guard in 1987. He first became a pilot as a warrant officer before receiving his direct commission in the aviation branch in 1998.
“In the end, success is not solely about personal advancement but also about contributing to the mission, supporting your team, and upholding the core values of the organization,” said Plunkett during his promotion ceremony address. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to continue serving with honor and distinction, adding, “I feel incredibly blessed for this opportunity to continue my service alongside such an extraordinary team.”
The ceremony was skillfully conducted by retired Chief Warrant Officer 5 Kevin Dares, who served as the master of ceremonies, adding a touch of military tradition and expertise to the event.
Notably, Plunkett’s children, both newly commissioned officers in the United States military, participated in the event. His son, 2nd Lt. Noah Plunkett, United States Marine Corps, gave the invocation. His daughter, Ensign Madeline Plunkett, United States Navy, delivered a rendition of the national anthem.
Plunkett’s promotion represents a significant achievement, reflecting the culmination of his hard work, expertise, and leadership within the military. His ongoing contributions and unwavering commitment to excellence position him as a role model for future generations of military personnel.