Committee asks staff to prepare packet to support postage stamp honoring Colonel Steven Deisler

The Veterans Affairs and Services Committee on March 16 directed staff to prepare a joint proclamation and outreach packet to support a U.S. postage stamp honoring the late Colonel Steven Deisler.

Commissioner Thomas made the motion, which Commissioner Young seconded; the committee voted 5–0 to instruct staff to compile supporting documents, a template letter, and a contact list to solicit resolutions and letters of support from neighboring parishes, federal representatives and military installations. The committee asked for a draft by April 15 and a final packet no later than May 1, targeting Memorial Day and related outreach events.

Committee members outlined a regional lobbying approach, suggesting simultaneous resolutions from nearby parishes (as discussed at the meeting) and written requests to federal lawmakers and local military leadership. Commissioners named several outreach targets during the discussion, including members of Congress and military installations, and suggested obtaining formal letters from Barksdale Air Force Base, Fort Johnson, the governor’s office and veterans organizations. One commissioner urged creating a web page or petition to gather signatures from veterans and civilians who knew Colonel Deisler.

“His career is stellar and second to none,” a commissioner said while urging an “aggressive effort” to secure broad support. Committee members agreed the committee alone is one part of a broader campaign and emphasized staff coordination to streamline signatures and outreach.

The motion passed unanimously, and staff were directed to return draft materials by April 15 and a final packet by May 1 for distribution and further outreach planning.