By Maj. Darren T. Herring Jr., Louisiana National Guard Public Affairs Office
NEW ORLEANS – The Louisiana National Guard’s Office of Family Programs hosted its annual State Family Program Workshop and awards ceremony April 24–26 in Baton Rouge, recognizing volunteers from the Soldier and Family Readiness Group.
This year’s theme, “Resilience in Real Time: Supporting Families in a Changing World,” featured discussions, presentations and hands-on exercises focused on building resilience and financial readiness. Participants received training on setting financial goals, managing debt and planning for long-term stability.
“Ladies and gentlemen, I want to sincerely thank each of you for your time, energy and dedication,” said Larry J. Johnson Jr., LANG State Family Program division director. “You’ve gained valuable skills that will empower you to make a real difference during this workshop. I encourage you to carry this forward and continue to serve with pride and passion.”
Training included sessions led by Kyah Spriggs, founder of Six Feet Above and Louisiana state risk reduction coordinator, along with a team of resource providers. Topics covered military-specific financial benefits, maximizing savings and preparing for long-term financial success.
Concurrent with the workshop, the Louisiana National Guard Child and Youth Program hosted a Youth Symposium in Baton Rouge. Twelve teens and four adult volunteers participated in leadership development, team-building activities and educational outings, including a visit to the Louisiana Arts and Science Museum.
The event concluded with an awards ceremony recognizing service members, volunteers and families for their contributions to strengthening the military family support network. Awards were presented by Col. Augusto Villalaz, LANG director of the joint staff.
The 2025 Army National Guard Soldier and Family Readiness Group of the Year was awarded to Delta Company, 1st Battalion, 244th Aviation Regiment. The Army National Guard Soldier and Family Readiness Volunteer of the Year was awarded to Andy Miguez, Company C, 199th Brigade Support Battalion. The Air National Guard Family Readiness Key Volunteer of the Year was awarded to Jacklyn Villalaz, 159th Logistics Readiness Squadron.
The Army Guard Family of the Year award was presented to the Vicknair family. The Army National Guard Newsletter/Social Media of the Year was awarded to Detachment 1, Company C, 1st Battalion, 114th Aviation Regiment, and the Air National Guard Newsletter/Social Media of the Year was awarded to the 259th Combat Airfield Operations Squadron. The NGB Region 6 Family Program Community Purple Award was presented to the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association LA 6-6.