Jackson Barracks: The Readiness Centers and the Barracks' Place in the Community

The Washington Artillery, now known as the 141st Field Artillery Regiment, is Louisiana's most historic military unit. Jackson Barracks has been its home since 1923. Part of the post-storm construction was a new and improved readiness center. Unless they are on federal overseas duty, the soldiers of the 141st drill monthly at the Barracks and mobilize for local emergencies, often in support of NOPD and by assisting citizens with commodity distribution.

The 139th Regional Support Group is also headquartered on site. It consists of a variety of support units including transportation, intelligence, military police, medical, and other functions.

Major General Glenn Curtis commands the Louisiana National Guard through emergencies and day to day activities from his office at Jackson Barracks.

After Katrina, some questioned if the barracks should be rebuilt. Since then, however, the facility has proven essential for the Southeast portion of the state during several disasters, including the Gulf Oil Spill, the river flood of 2011, the marsh fires of 2011, and Hurricane Isaac in 2012.

Since it has been a National Guard facility, Jackson Barracks has played an important role in the New Orleans community as an emergency response and military support center, and a job creator.