The Louisiana State Guard’s (State Defense Force) 1st Area Command has had a busy October, marking an important period of growth and readiness for the organization. Earlier in the month, the unit proudly welcomed nine new soldiers during a swearing-in ceremony at Jackson Barracks in New Orleans. Among the new recruits were 1st Lieutenant Evan Gelobter, who joins as a Judge Advocate General (JAG) officer, and Command Sergeant Major Kevin Breaux, who will serve as the unit’s senior enlisted advisor. Both bring extensive with them prior US military experience that will greatly enhance the leadership and operational depth of the 1st Area Command.
Whether these recruits are prior-service U.S. military veterans or new to military service, each brings valuable expertise to the Louisiana State Guard — from skilled medical professionals such as nurses, paramedics, and EMTs, to certified engineers whose technical knowledge enhances the Guard’s ability to respond effectively to disasters and all-hazard situations across the state. The new soldiers will take on roles spanning administrative, operational, and support functions, providing essential resources to the Louisiana National Guard and the Louisiana Military Department. Brigadier General (LA) Larry Benton, Commander of the Louisiana State Guard, commended their dedication, stating, “Each of these new soldiers bring unique skills and experience that strengthens the unit’s leadership and operational capabilities. Their expertise ensures we are fully prepared to respond effectively during any emergency and provide the highest level of support to the citizens of Louisiana.” The ceremony also served as a reminder of the commitment these men and women make to serve the state under the direction of the Governor and the Adjutant General, a bond that strengthens Louisiana’s emergency response network.
Later in the month, troops from the 1st Area Command’s Force Protection Team conducted weapons qualifications during their October 18th drill, further enhancing the unit’s operational readiness. The Louisiana State Guard trains its Force Protection Team to meet law enforcement standards, with certified police instructors leading much of the instruction to ensure soldiers develop real-world tactical and defensive skills. The training focused on safety, accuracy, and tactical proficiency with standard-issue firearms, ensuring that each soldier remains capable and prepared to secure installations, personnel, and critical infrastructure during emergencies. Major Daniel Stoute, Public Affairs Officer for the Louisiana State Guard, highlighted the importance of this ongoing training, noting, “This training ensures that our Force Protection Team is ready to protect our soldiers and support the Louisiana National Guard in fulfilling its mission. Maintaining a high standard of readiness is essential for any emergency response operation.”
The Force Protection Team has been instrumental in several key missions this past year, including strengthening security during Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans and achieving top honors at the State Military Marksmanship Event earlier this year. Their continued excellence reflects the professionalism and discipline that define the Louisiana State Guard today.
Over the past few years, The Louisiana State Guard has undergone a remarkable transformation, expanding its missions, improving its training programs, and establishing itself as a vital asset to both the State and National Guard. This evolution has been driven by the visionary leadership of Brigadier General (LA) Larry W. Benton and Command Sergeant Major (LA) Dennis Sapp, whose dedication and direction have positioned the Louisiana State Guard as one of the most capable and dependable State Defense Forces in the nation.
1st Area Command Swears In Nine New Soldiers, Expands Expertise with JAG Officer and Senior Enlisted Advisor
New Orleans, LA — The Louisiana State Guard’s 1st Area Command (1AC) proudly welcomed nine new soldiers into its ranks during a swearing-in ceremony held at Jackson Barracks. The newest additions include 1LT Evan Gelobter, who will serve as the unit’s Judge Advocate General (JAG) officer, and Command Sergeant Major Kevin Breaux, who will serve as the unit’s senior enlisted advisor, strengthening the unit’s leadership and operational capabilities.
The ceremony marks a significant milestone in 1AC’s ongoing efforts to build a highly skilled and ready force capable of supporting Louisiana citizens during emergencies and all-hazard responses. New soldiers will take on a range of roles across administrative, operational, and support functions, providing vital resources to the Louisiana National Guard and the Louisiana Military Department.
“Each of these new soldiers bring unique skills and experience that strengthens the unit’s leadership and operational capabilities,” said Brigadier General Larry Benton, Commander of the Louisiana State Guard. “Their expertise ensures we are fully prepared to respond effectively during any emergency and provide the highest level of support to the citizens of Louisiana.”
The swearing-in ceremony included the administration of the official oath of service, symbolizing the commitment of each soldier to serve the state under the direction of the Governor and the Adjutant General. These new members join 1AC at a time when readiness and skilled leadership are paramount to the mission of the Louisiana State Guard.
Louisiana State Guard’s 1st Area Command Force Protection Team Conducts Weapons Qualifications
New Orleans, LA – The Louisiana State Guard’s 1st Area Command successfully conducted weapons qualifications for its Force Protection Team during the unit’s drill on October 18, 2025. This training is a key component of maintaining operational readiness and ensuring the safety and security of the citizens of Louisiana during emergency response operations.
During the training, soldiers of the Force Protection Team demonstrated proficiency with standard-issue firearms, reinforcing their ability to provide security in a variety of scenarios. The training emphasized safety, accuracy, and tactical readiness, preparing the team to respond effectively during all-hazard situations across the state.
“This training ensures that our Force Protection Team is ready to protect our soldiers and support the Louisiana National Guard in fulfilling its mission,” said Major Daniel Stoute, Public Affairs Officer of the Louisiana State Guard. “Maintaining a high standard of readiness is essential for any emergency response operation, and today’s qualifications are an important step in that process.”
The Louisiana State Guard is dedicated to providing administrative, operational, and logistical support to the Louisiana National Guard. Force Protection Team training, such as weapons qualifications, is critical in ensuring that LASG units are prepared to protect installations, personnel, and the communities they serve.
Source: Louisiana State Guard