La. National Guard’s New Orleans Soldiers deploy overseas

By Sgt. Anna Churco, Louisiana National Guard Public Affairs Office

NEW ORLEANS – The Louisiana National Guard’s 139th Regional Support Group held a deployment ceremony in New Orleans at the Capital on Baronne, June 1. This event marks the beginning of the unit’s deployment to Poland and the Baltic states where they will provide crucial base and logistical support. The event was attended by service members, as well as their friends and families.

More than 80 Guardsmen from the New Orleans-based unit are set to embark on this mission, which includes pre-mobilization training at Fort Cavazos, Texas. The deployment will see these Soldiers away from home for approximately one year, underscoring their commitment and dedication to national and international security. Their role is part of a larger effort to enhance security and stability in the Baltic region.

“These Guard members are part of the one percent,” said Brig. Gen. Thomas Friloux, adjutant general of the LANG. “This is the one percent that enables democracy.”
This deployment is particularly significant as it represents the 139th’s second overseas mission since the events of 9/11. In addition to their international duties, the 139th Regional Support Group is a vital component of state emergency operations. The unit has consistently provided essential support during numerous state emergencies, demonstrating their versatility and dedication to both state and national duties.

“These dedicated men and women, Soldiers of the Louisiana National Guard, are the best Louisiana has to offer,” said 139th Regional Support Group Commander Col. Bobby Lee. “They’ve spent countless hours on training and preparation for this deployment.”