WASHINGTON –
The District of Columbia National Guard supported local and federal agencies during the Independence Day celebration in Washington, D.C. July 4.
Thousands of visitors were able to enjoy the Independence Day celebration in a safe environment. According to Col. Renee Gore, Joint Task Force Independence commander, D.C. National Guard, a key contributor to creating a safe environment was interoperability.
“This is a continuation of a partnership that has been established for many years,” Gore said. “The planning started early on and is very inclusive of the D.C. National Guard. We aided local agencies with blocking, traffic control points, and chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear (CBRN) missions.”
The nearly 800 Guardsmen contributed to making sure the Nation’s Capital was safe during festivities.
While the mission was to support district and federal agencies, some Guardsmen like Pfc. Melaku Worku, 74th Troop Command, simply enjoyed serving on such a significant day.
“This is an amazing day to serve our country,” Worku said. “It’s an honor as a District of Columbia National Guard member to provide assistance in our city to ensure so many can come out and see the parade, see the fireworks, and to enjoy the city.”
The D.C. National Guard is made up of Soldiers and Airmen who support the community, many working as police, firefighters, and government leaders supporting civilian authorities. The Guardsmen have a rich heritage within the National Capital Region and have been protecting the Capital and defending the nation since 1802.
Today's Capital Guardians remains strong with more than 2,700 soldiers and airmen providing air sovereignty over the NCR, transporting senior government leaders, supporting domestic operations and providing mission-ready Soldiers and Airmen for global engagement.