La. Guard’s 205th Engineer Battalion holds change of command and responsibility ceremony
By Staff Sgt. David C. Kirtland, Louisiana National Guard Public Affairs Office
NEW ORLEANS — The Louisiana National Guard’s 205th Engineer Battalion held a change of command and responsibility ceremony at its armory in Bogalusa, Louisiana, Jan. 26. The event recognized the transition of leadership from Lt. Col. Demetrius Treadway to Lt. Col. Heather Englehart and the change of responsibility from outgoing Command Sgt. Maj. Kevin Giroir to incoming Command Sgt. Maj. Jeff Bennett.
Brig. Gen. John Plunkett, special assistant to the adjutant general of Louisiana, presided over the ceremony and presented Englehart with the battalion’s colors, praising both the outgoing and incoming commanders.
“Over the past two years, the 205th has thrived under Lt. Col. Treadway’s remarkable leadership, and his impact is undeniable. Congratulations on an outstanding command,” said Plunkett. “To Lt. Col. Englehart, you are no stranger to excellence, with over 24 years of service; your qualifications speak for themselves. I am confident that under your leadership, the 205th will continue to rise to every challenge and protect what matters.”
Englehart acknowledged Treadway’s contributions and emphasized her commitment to the battalion’s Soldiers.
“To the Soldiers of the 205th, know that I believe in every individual, that every individual matters, and every position within this organization was created with a purpose,” said Englehart. “My commitment to you and our mission is that by each of us doing our part, we stand together and are ready to face any challenges ahead. Remember, you are not simply a member of the 205th—you are the 205th.”
Treadway reflected on his tenure, calling it the proudest time of his military career.
“When I was informed that I was being reassigned, I was heartbroken because I knew I was not getting an opportunity to come back and be a member of the 205th, where the Soldiers are true professionals,” said Treadway.
During the ceremony, Giroir formally passed responsibility by transferring the battalion colors to Bennett, symbolizing the transition of leadership among the enlisted ranks.
Treadway and Giroir were both awarded the Meritorious Service Medal in recognition of their dedicated service to the 205th.
The 205th Engineer Battalion has played a vital role in key moments throughout history, dating back to its federal activation in 1916 for duty along the Mexican border. The battalion has since served in World War I, World War II, the Global War on Terrorism, and multiple domestic disaster relief operations.
Domestically, the battalion has contributed to recovery efforts following Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, Gustav, Ike, and Laura, as well as the 2016 floods. Most recently, it supported the state in the aftermath of Hurricane Ida in 2021, providing critical infrastructure support and emergency response coordination.
With a history of service “anytime, anyplace,” the 205th Engineer Battalion stands as a testament to the enduring strength of the Louisiana National Guard and its commitment to both State and Nation.