By Spc. Duncan C. Foote, Louisiana National Guard Public Affairs Office
CARVILLE, La. – The Louisiana National Guard’s 62nd Civil Support Team (CST) conducted a change of command ceremony at the Gillis Long Center, transitioning leadership from Lt. Col. Andrew Gremillion to Capt. John Jennings.
Col. Augusto Villalaz, director of the joint staff for the Louisiana National Guard, presided over the ceremony, which was attended by family members, fellow service members, and distinguished guests.
During the ceremony, Gremillion relinquished command after leading the joint unit of Soldiers and Airmen since January 2023. Under his leadership, the unit supported civil authorities by identifying chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosive hazards during emergency response operations.
"Being part of an organization comprised of the brightest and most dedicated Soldiers and Airmen I’ve ever served with was the best way to finish my career," said Gremillion, who concluded more than 31 years of military service. "I was given the honor of becoming the commander of this great team in January 2023, and it has been the pinnacle of my career."
Villalaz commended Gremillion’s leadership and the unit's high operational readiness under his tenure.
"Under your command, this unit flawlessly executed 31 real-world and steady-state missions," Villalaz said. "Despite this high operational tempo, you maintained an uncompromised standard of excellence."
Jennings assumed command of the specialized unit during the traditional exchange of unit colors, symbolizing the formal transfer of authority and responsibility.
The 62nd CST is trained to support local, state, and federal civilian agencies in responding to hazardous material incidents and potential weapons of mass destruction events.