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Prepared and Engaged: Louisiana State Guard Enhances Readiness with Hands-On Training

The Louisiana State Guard’s (State Defense Force) 4th Area Command (4AC), based at Camp Minden, recently conducted a drill focused on disaster response training. The exercise emphasized Search and Rescue (SAR) boat familiarization and Point of Distribution (POD) management, two critical skills for emergency operations. Members participated in SAR boat training to become acquainted with equipment functionality, basic operational procedures, and maintenance practices. This foundational training prepares the 4AC team for future mission-specific exercises, reinforcing their readiness to respond effectively during natural disasters or emergencies.

In addition to SAR training, the POD management session equipped members with the expertise needed to set up and oversee distribution sites during disaster relief missions. These sites serve as essential hubs for delivering food, water, medical resources, and other supplies to communities in need. Brigadier General Larry Benton, Commander of the Louisiana State Guard, highlighted the importance of these drills, stating, “These exercises are vital to ensuring the Louisiana State Guard remains prepared to assist the Louisiana National Guard and the Louisiana Military Department during emergencies. Familiarization is the first step in building expertise and operational readiness.”

Points of Distribution (PODs) have been critical in recent years as natural disasters such as hurricanes, tornadoes, flooding, and wildfires have ravaged large areas of the country, making it extremely difficult or impossible for Americans to access food, water, and basic medical supplies during emergencies. PODs enable the state to provide these essential resources to residents until infrastructure and businesses are rebuilt.

The Louisiana State Guard has also made commendable strides in increasing its presence and visibility, both operationally and online. Their enhanced activity levels and a stronger social media presence have highlighted the Guard’s dedication to serving Louisiana’s communities. The outstanding work of their Public Affairs Teams has played a pivotal role in sharing their mission and fostering public engagement. As the Guard continues to grow and adapt, they remain an invaluable asset to the state, showcasing professionalism, commitment, and a readiness to face any challenge.

Camp Minden, LA — Members of the Louisiana State Guard’s 4th Area Command (4AC), based at Camp Minden, conducted a drill today focused on enhancing their disaster response capabilities. The training included Search and Rescue (SAR) boat familiarization and Point of Distribution (POD) management exercises.

The SAR boat training was conducted as a familiarization exercise, allowing members to become more acquainted with the equipment and basic operational procedures. This training focused on ensuring members understand the functionality and maintenance of the boat in preparation for future mission-specific exercises.

The POD training session complemented the day’s efforts by equipping members with the skills necessary to set up and manage distribution sites efficiently. These sites are critical for delivering essential supplies, such as food, water, and medical resources, during disaster response operations.

Brigadier General Larry Benton, Commander of the Louisiana State Guard, emphasized the importance of continued training: “These exercises are vital to ensuring the Louisiana State Guard remains prepared to assist the Louisiana National Guard and the Louisiana Military Department during emergencies. Familiarization is the first step in building expertise and operational readiness.”


Source: Lousiana State Guard

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