Christus Health donation will help pay for night-vision goggles for Louisiana State Police

Christus Health donated almost $100,000 to the Louisiana State Troopers Association Tuesday so the agency could upgrade their night vision goggles, a partnership between law enforcement and health care lauded by Gov. Jeff Landry.

The agency has had night vision goggles before this, but Command Pilot Keith Gros Jr. said it's been about 14 to 16 years since the last upgrade. The difference is stark, he said.

"The technology has greatly improved in that time span," said Gros.

The current goggles are green phosphorus, which shows everything in shades of green. The new goggles show everything in black and white "so it gives you a sharper contrast with details, and when you're going into an unknown landing area, that sharper contrast is a very big help."

Chris Karam, senior vice president of group operations for Christus Health Louisiana and Southeast Texas, started the event, saying the donation is a continuation of the group's legacy and ministry. Pointing to the governor, he recalled asking him and his staff early in his administration what Christus could do to help.

New technology was the answer, "so that began the discussion and the opportunity to have this dedication today," he said.

Landry, who earlier had spoken to the Rotary Club of Alexandria, nodded as he sat beside Louisiana's first surgeon general, Dr. Ralph Abraham. Also sitting nearby was District 27 state Rep. Mike Johnson and Col. Robert Hodges, Louisiana State Police superintendent.

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Hodges thanked Christus for the donation, telling those gathered that their support meant a great deal to troopers. The new goggles will let them expand capabilities, enabling them to better help other agencies throughout the state, he said.

They can be used to help with searches, rescues and surveillance, said Hodges. He said the goggles have revolutionized the way flight crews operate and reduce the risk of mishaps.

He echoed comments made earlier by Abrahams, saying it bridges the gap between law enforcement and health care so they all can provide life-saving services to all who need it.

"This technology is a game changer," he said. "It elevates State Police but, more importantly, it keeps us all safe."