The State Aviation Command (SAC) is spearheaded by the 204th Theater Aviation Operations Group (TAOG), which serves as the operational headquarters for the Louisiana Army National Guard’s aviation elements. The 204th TAOG oversees a highly capable, multi-mission force that includes an assault battalion, medical evacuation and light utility detachments, Air Traffic Services, and unmanned and fixed-wing elements. To sustain this high level of mission readiness, SAC operates two Army Aviation Support Facilities (AASF) dedicated to the training and maintenance of all supported units.
A cornerstone of the command is the 1-244th Aviation Regiment (Assault), equipped with UH-60M Blackhawk helicopters. The 1-244th has a decorated history of federal service, having conducted multiple overseas combat deployments in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. Domestically, the battalion is indispensable to the state’s emergency response matrix. The unit executed historic search and rescue operations during Hurricane Katrina, saving countless lives. Following the catastrophic damage to its original New Orleans headquarters during that storm, the unit relocated to a modernized facility in Hammond, Louisiana. The battalion continuously provided critical airlift, supply transport, and rescue capabilities during subsequent major disasters, including Hurricanes Rita, Harvey, and Ida, the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill, and the historic 2016 floods.
The SAC’s operational reach is further expanded by specialized detachments operating a diverse fleet. The command utilizes UH-72 Lakota helicopters across two Light Utility Helicopter (LUH) detachments, which are frequently activated for state emergencies, security operations, and counter-drug missions. Dedicated medical evacuation is provided by Company F, 2-238th MEDEVAC (formerly the 812th Medical Company), operating specially equipped UH-60M Blackhawks. With roots in the LANG dating back to the 1970s, this MEDEVAC unit deployed for Operation Desert Storm in 1991, performed extensive life-saving hoist rescues during Hurricane Katrina, and deployed to Asia in 2010 in support of the Global War on Terrorism.
Rounding out the command’s comprehensive air capabilities, the TAOG also oversees two Air Traffic Services companies, an Aviation Intermediate Maintenance detachment, and an Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) detachment. Fixed-wing operational support is provided by Detachment 38 (OSA), equipped with a C-12 aircraft. Detachment 38 conducts routine transport and logistical support throughout the Western Hemisphere and has actively supported overseas combat missions during the Global War on Terrorism.