The Louisiana National Guard Distinguished Service Cross honors Louisiana National Guard members who execute acts of heroism while carrying out honorable service, typically involving risk of life but of a lesser degree than would warrant the Louisiana Medal of Honor.
The Louisiana National Guard is composed of the Louisiana Army National Guard and the Louisiana Air National Guard; it is estimated to have 11,500 members. The Army component, headquartered in New Orleans, traces its roots back to militia activity in the 1770s. The Air component is also based in New Orleans and consists of the 159th Fighter Wing, nicknamed the “Bayou Militia,” as well as several support units.
The ribbon is dark blue with three thin vertical white stripes toward the center and a thin vertical red stripe on each edge.