The Louisiana State Guard’s (State Defense Forces) 3rd Area Command recently completed a successful weapons safety and small arms qualification training event at Training Center Pineville, underscoring the Guard’s preparedness to support the state in times of emergency. Led by Master Sergeant Seth Bordelon, Guardsmen participated in rigorous classroom instruction focused on foundational weapons handling, safety procedures, and marksmanship fundamentals. The event culminated in live-fire qualifications, allowing personnel to demonstrate their proficiency under the supervision of certified range safety officers and experienced NCOs. According to Lieutenant Colonel John Frost, Commander of the 3rd Area Command, the training reinforces the Guard’s ability to respond confidently and professionally during crises. “Our Guardsmen must be fully trained and confident in their responsibilities—including the safe handling of firearms,” said Frost.
The qualification weekend also served as a vital certification opportunity, with Guardsmen earning or renewing their weapons qualifications in line with Louisiana State Guard standards. Safety remained the highest priority throughout the evolution, with all activities conducted under strict military and state protocols. This event reflects the ongoing efforts by the Louisiana State Guard to maintain operational readiness and support capabilities across its four area commands. Through continued training and preparedness exercises, the Guard ensures it can effectively support the Louisiana National Guard and provide vital assistance to communities when disaster strikes.
Across the nation, the Louisiana State Guard joins a growing number of State Defense Forces focusing on small arms training and qualifications. These forces include many former U.S. military and law enforcement instructors—who are devoted to expanding the missions of their State Defense Force to include law enforcement augmentation, shelter security during emergencies, and serving as firearm instructors for Army National Guard training, as seen with the California State Guard’s 79th Support Group. With these certified instructors and new mission set, State Defense Forces are becoming an essential asset to state military operations. Their presence ensures that when disaster strikes, they are ready to assist with additional trained troops ready to provide order, safety, and security to affected communities.
Louisiana State Guard 3rd Area Command Conducts Weapons Safety and Qualification Training at Training Center Pineville
PINEVILLE, LA – The 3rd Area Command of the Louisiana State Guard (LASG) conducted a successful round of weapons safety instruction and weapons qualifications this past weekend at Training Center Pineville, reinforcing the Guard’s readiness to support emergency operations statewide.
The training was led by Master Sergeant Seth Bordelon, who provided instruction on foundational weapons handling procedures, safe firearm practices, and marksmanship fundamentals. Under his leadership—and with the support of certified range safety officers and experienced noncommissioned officers—LASG personnel participated in both classroom instruction and live-fire qualifications.
Lieutenant Colonel John Frost, Commander of the 3rd Area Command, emphasized the importance of maintaining high standards in weapons safety. “Whether our mission calls for support during natural disasters or civil emergency operations, our Guardsmen must be fully trained and confident in their responsibilities—including the safe handling of firearms,” said Frost. “This training ensures our team remains mission-ready while upholding the professionalism expected of Louisiana’s military forces.”
The weekend’s event also served as a qualification opportunity for Guardsmen seeking to maintain or earn weapons certifications in accordance with Louisiana State Guard regulations. Safety remained the top priority throughout the evolution, and all operations were conducted in accordance with state and military safety protocols.
The Louisiana State Guard continues to strengthen its capabilities through regular training, operational support, and readiness exercises across all four area commands. Training events like these reflect the Guard’s ongoing commitment to supporting the Louisiana National Guard and the citizens of the state during times of crisis.
Source: Louisiana State Guard
