Board of Directors

 

John Vicknair
Chairman

John Vicknair, of Ascension Parish, is a proud father of a daughter, a son, and a son-in-law. He has been married to his wife, Rachel, for 16 years, and his family remains at the heart of his life. Professionally, John has spent his career in the Oil & Gas industry and has been with Marathon Petroleum Company for 27 years, where he also leads the Veterans Employee Network at the Garyville Refinery.

From 1992 to 1996, John served in the Army National Guard. His passion for serving veterans is deeply personal, inspired in part by his grandfather, who was a World War II military plane navigator.

John’s first Honor Flight experience came in 2019 when he volunteered as a guardian. Witnessing firsthand the profound impact on the veterans that day was life-changing and inspired him to become more involved. Just six months later, he was elected to the board and has remained dedicated to the mission ever since.

Among his most meaningful moments with Honor Flight are seeing veterans’ emotional reactions upon landing in Washington, D.C., watching Louisiana veterans participate in the changing of the Wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and witnessing the joy of mail call on the flight home.

Passionate about helping others, John is committed to serving America’s heroes who risked their lives for the nation and its freedom.

 

Grant McCurdy
Co-Chairman

Grant McCurdy, of Baton Rouge, brings both personal and professional dedication to his role as Co-Chairman of Honor Flight Louisiana. He works in project management on large, complex construction projects and has a strong passion for photography. Outside of work, he is a devoted husband and father.

From 2002 to 2006, Grant served in the United States Marine Corps. His connection to the veteran community runs even deeper as a Gold Star sibling — his brother was killed in action in Iraq while saving the life of another Marine. This experience continues to shape Grant’s commitment to honoring those who serve.

Inspired by a desire to give back to the veterans who have given so much, Grant chose to join the Honor Flight Louisiana Board. His most meaningful experiences come from meeting veterans and listening to their stories, moments that reaffirm the importance of the mission.

 

Janet Broussard
Treasurer

Janet Broussard, of Ascension Parish, is a proud mom of two sons and “Birdie” to four wonderful grandchildren. Married to her best friend for 28 years, family is truly at the center of her life. She has long been dedicated to giving back, serving on many boards and organizations that support active military, veterans, and Gold Star families.

Professionally, Janet is a Senior Project Manager at Woman’s Hospital, where she brings the same dedication and care she values in her personal life. She is also a proud Blue Star Mother, deeply connected to the veteran community as both an advocate and supporter.

Her involvement with Honor Flight began in 2011, when she joined her first flight and witnessed firsthand the profound impact on veterans visiting the monuments built in their honor. The homecoming, for many the welcome they never received, remains one of her most meaningful experiences.

Janet believes strongly in the mission of Honor Flight: ensuring every veteran has the chance to make this journey. Guided by her belief that “together we can do so much, lifting each other up and making a difference no one could achieve alone,” she continues to serve with passion and purpose.

 

Natalie Truax
Secretary

Natalie Truax is a devoted wife and mother of three, with deep family ties to military service. Her husband is a Louisiana Army National Guard veteran, one son currently serves in the U.S. Air Force, and another serves in the Louisiana Army National Guard.

Professionally, Natalie has built a career in Information Technology for the State of Louisiana, where she now works as a consultant between the IT department and customer agencies. She brings strong communication and organizational skills to her role as Secretary of Honor Flight Louisiana.

Beyond her professional life, Natalie is passionate about supporting veterans and military families. She serves as Vice President of the Blue Star Mothers of Louisiana Chapter 1 and actively participates in several Mardi Gras dance krewes. She also enjoys running in the Courir de Mardi Gras in Cajun country, visiting historic cemeteries, and exploring the road less traveled.

Driven by a heart for service, Natalie views her role on the Honor Flight Louisiana Board as an extension of her dedication to supporting those who serve and have served our nation.

 

Anna Sanders
Event Coordinator

Anna Sanders, originally from Honolulu, Hawaii, proudly served in the U.S. Air Force from 1969 to 1973 as a Sergeant and Medical Administrative Specialist. She has been married to her husband, Jack, for nearly 53 years, and together they have three daughters, three sons-in-law, and seven grandchildren.

Anna first experienced Honor Flight Louisiana as a Vietnam veteran, finding the journey both meaningful and unforgettable. Inspired by that experience, she chose to continue serving by helping provide the same opportunity for her fellow veterans.

In addition to her role as Event Coordinator for Honor Flight Louisiana, Anna serves as President of Louisiana Women Veterans, Vice Commander of American Legion Post #38, and Commander of the Honor Guard Details for funerals.

Passionate about giving back, Anna devotes her time to working alongside veterans, their families, and organizations that support the military community.