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U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. Scott McKennon with the District of Columbia National Guard, assigned to Joint Task Force District of Columbia, in support of the DC Safe and Beautiful mission, enters the newly transferred 260th Special Purpose Brigade boat at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling, June 26, 2026. About 4,500 National Guard members are supporting the mission, providing critical assistance to the Metropolitan Police Department to help ensure the safety of residents, commuters, and visitors throughout the District.

D.C. National Guard Boosts Homeland Defense as 260th Special Purpose Brigade Commissions First Maritime Security Vessel
Happy 250th, America—and thank you to the Guardsmen standing watch as our nation celebrates this historic milestone. What does it mean to serve during one of the most historic celebrations in our nation's history? In this edition of Walk and Talk: On the Move with the Commanding General, U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Leland D. Blanchard II, Commanding General (Interim) of the D.C. National Guard, visits Soldiers supporting presence patrols, entry control, and traffic operations at and around the Great American State Fair on the National Mall. As preparations continue for Freedom 250, Guardsmen from across the country share what it means to leave home, represent their states in the nation's capital, work alongside federal, state, and local partners, and help safeguard America's 250th birthday celebration. Hear directly from Joint Task Force–District of Columbia Guardsmen as they reflect on the pride, purpose, and once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be part of a mission that will forever be woven into our nation's history. (U.S. Air National Guard video by Master Sgt. Arthur M. Wright)

Walk and Talk: On the Move with the Commanding General (ep. 2)
This month’s report highlights the moments that defined June 2026 for the D.C. National Guard and Joint Task Force–District of Columbia. Guardsmen closed out June with missions that made a lasting impact—from lifesaving responses on the streets to supporting nationally significant events and preparing for future emergencies. Whether protecting lives, strengthening interagency partnerships, connecting communities with careers, or training for the unexpected, every mission reflected a steadfast commitment to service. Because every patrol, every response, and every interaction matters.(U.S. Air National Guard video by Master Sgt. Arthur M. Wright)

The Monthly Impact Report: June 2026
A man sat on the ledge of Arlington Memorial Bridge, his feet dangling over its edge when U.S. Army Sgt. Jordan Gillespie, a Crisis Intervention Training-certified personnel and Soldier with the Mississippi National Guard sat by him and began a conversation that ultimately helped bring him to safety on May 30, 2026. Approximately 2,500 National Guard members support the DC Safe and Beautiful mission, providing critical assistance to the Metropolitan Police Department and community partners to enhance safety and quality of life throughout the District.

How a Soldier's Humanity Helped Two Lives
As America prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday and the U.S. Army marks its 251st Birthday on June 14, 2026, Brig. Gen. Leland D. Blanchard II, Commanding General (Interim) of the D.C. National Guard, reflects on the Army’s enduring commitment to the nation. Here in the nation’s capital, the D.C. National Guard and Joint Task Force–District of Columbia carry that legacy forward every day—supporting interagency partners, enhancing public safety, and service during some of the nation's most significant events. Reliable. Ready. Resolute. For 251 years, the Army has stood watch under one timeless promise: This We’ll Defend. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Master Sgt. Arthur M. Wright)

DCNG Commanding General's Army 251st Birthday Message
U.S. Army Spc. Brennan Ridgen, a combat medic, left, and Spc. Logan Jackson, right, an artilleryman, both with the Arkansas National Guard currently assigned to Joint Task Force-District of Columbia in support of the DC Safe and Beautiful mission, pose for a portrait near Dupont Circle in Washington, May 21, 2026. About 2,500 National Guard members are supporting the mission, providing critical assistance to the Metropolitan Police Department to help ensure the safety of residents, commuters and visitors throughout the District.

JTF-DC Soldiers respond to vehicle accident
U.S. Army Spc. Shretha Broderick with the Georgia National Guard assigned to Joint Task Force-District of Columbia in support of the DC Safe and Beautiful mission, salutes the American flag while wearing the Freedom 250 Brassard at the DC Armory in Washington, May 21, 2026. About 2,500 National Guard members are supporting the mission, providing critical assistance to the Metropolitan Police Department to help ensure the safety of residents, commuters and visitors throughout the District.

Protect the Capital, Defend the Nation: DCNG Unveils Freedom 250
Brig. Gen. Leland D. Blanchard II, Commanding General (Interim) of the D.C. National Guard, reminds Americans that Memorial Day is more than a holiday or seasonal tradition — it is a solemn time to honor the men and women who gave their lives in service to the nation. From ceremonies and parades to flags placed at cemeteries and moments of silence, Americans commemorate the fallen through acts of gratitude and respect. The freedoms enjoyed today were secured through the courage and selflessness of heroes, both known and unknown, whose sacrifices will never be forgotten. (U.S. Air National Guard video by Master Sgt. Arthur M. Wright)

DCNG Commanding General Memorial Day Message 2026
The D.C. Armory’s Brigadier General West A. Hamilton Museum preserves more than 200 years of District of Columbia National Guard history, honoring the legacy of the Soldiers and Airmen who have defended the nation’s capital and served the United States through times of war, national emergencies, and peace. Located inside the historic D.C. Armory, the museum serves as a place of education, connecting visitors to the unique story of the only federally controlled National Guard in the nation. Through historic artifacts, uniforms, photographs, and personal stories, the museum highlights the courage, sacrifice, and dedication of generations who answered the call to serve something greater than themselves. As America approaches its 250th birthday—the semiquincentennial of the signing of the Declaration of Independence—the museum stands as a powerful reminder that freedom, democracy, and independence are never guaranteed, but preserved through generations of service and sacrifice. The history of the D.C. National Guard reflects the enduring spirit of citizen service that has shaped the nation. By preserving and sharing these stories, the museum not only honors the past, but also inspires future generations to recognize the responsibility of protecting the ideals upon which the United States was built. (U.S. Air National Guard video by Master Sgt. Arthur M. Wright)

The D.C. National Guard: Making History Since 1802
U.S. Army Capt. Desjamebra Y. Hames assumed command of the District of Columbia Army National Guard’s (DCARNG) Recruit Sustainment Program Company, newly christened the "Trailblazers," at the D.C. Armory, on April 25, 2025. The Recruit Sustainment Program is a critical cornerstone of the Army National Guard, designed to prepare new enlistees for the rigors of Basic Combat Training (BCT) and Advanced Individual Training (AIT). The program’s mission is to ensure soldiers are physically, mentally, and emotionally ready to succeed before they ever ship out.

Full Circle: From RSP Recruit to Commander, U.S. Army Capt. Hames Leads the DCARNG "Trailblazers"
U.S. Soldiers with the Nebraska and North Dakota National Guards, assigned to Joint Task Force-District of Columbia in support of the DC Safe and Beautiful mission, pose for a group photo at a hotel in Alexandria, Virginia, April 28, 2026. About 2,500 National Guard members are supporting the mission, providing critical assistance to the Metropolitan Police Department to help ensure the safety of residents, commuters and visitors throughout the District.

JTF-DC at the White House Correspondents Association Dinner
Brig. Gen. Leland D. Blanchard II, Commanding General (Interim) of the D.C. National Guard, delivers a birthday message recognizing the organization’s 224th anniversary on May 3, and in anticipation of Freedom 250, at the Lincoln Memorial on April 29, 2026. He highlights the Guard’s 224 years of courage, sacrifice, and dedication to freedom, citing service in major conflicts from the American Civil War to World War II, the Vietnam War, Operation Desert Storm, and modern global missions. Beyond combat operations, the D.C. National Guard also supports interagency partners during major national events in the capital, including presidential inaugurations, Independence Day celebrations, summits, National Special Security Events (NSSEs), and other requests for assistance (RFA). As the United States marks 250 years of independence through Freedom 250, the D.C. National Guard stands ready to serve as requested. (U.S. Air National Guard video by Master Sgt. Arthur M. Wright)

DCNG Commanding General’s 224th Birthday Message
First-year medical students at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences conduct a medical evacuation training exercise with a UH-60L MEDEVAC Black Hawk assigned to the D.C. Army National Guard Aviation Battalion in Bethesda, Maryland, on April 10, 2026. The training provided medical school applicants and first-year medical students with instruction in medical evacuation procedures and tactical combat casualty care (TCCC).

Shaping Future Military Physicians: D.C. Army National Guard Aviation Conducts MEDEVAC Training with Uniformed Services University
U.S. Army National Guard Soldiers compete in the finals during day three of the 2026 Lacerda Cup All-Army Combatives Championship at Fort Benning, Ga. Apr. 10, 2026. The two Army National Guard teams finished the tournament with third and sixth place team standings out of twenty-one teams competing, with three National Guard Soldiers earning championship belts.

From the Drill Floor to Tournament Stage, D.C. National Guard Launches Modern Combatives Program
U.S. Army Spc. Ester Henriquez, an Indiana National Guard member assigned to Joint Task Force - District of Columbia, holds Hasan Alpkan's hand during their wedding ceremony at the Old Post Chapel on Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, Virginia, March 21, 2026. About 2,700 National Guard members support the D.C. Safe and Beautiful mission, assisting the Metropolitan Police Department in maintaining public safety for residents, commuters and visitors throughout the District.

From Duty to 'I Do'
U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Kevin Whitehead (left) and Lt. Col. Andrew Garwitz (right), both with the D.C. National Guard, stand in front of the formation with the brigade colors during the 260th Special Purpose Brigade activation ceremony at the activation ceremony at the D.C. Armory in Washington, D.C., March 7, 2026.

D.C. National Guard Activates 260th Special Purpose Brigade to Strengthen Security in the Nation’s Capital
Brig. Gen. Leland D. Blanchard II, Commanding General (Interim) of the District of Columbia National Guard, hosts a Law Enforcement Recognition Ceremony recognizing partner law enforcement agencies at the D.C. Armory, Feb. 26, 2026. Distinguished guests included U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi; Gady Serralta, Director of the U.S. Marshals Service; and Jeffery Carroll, Interim Chief of Police for Metropolitan Police Department. The ceremony recognized officers from 10 local and federal law enforcement agencies for their partnership with the National Guard and contributions to public safety in support of the D.C. Safe and Beautiful mission. Officers received the District of Columbia National Guard Commendation Medal, Meritorious Service Medal or Distinguished Service Medal based on their individual achievements and level of impact.

D.C. National Guard Hosts Ceremony Recognizing DC Safe and Beautiful Partners
Col. Larry Doane, commander of Joint Task Force–D.C., and Command Sgt. Maj. Scott McKennon conduct a leadership circulation across Washington transit corridors Feb. 13, 2026, while supporting the D.C. Safe and Beautiful mission. The senior leaders engaged Soldiers at multiple Metro stations, reinforcing standards, sustainability and partnership with civilian law enforcement as more than 2,600 National Guard members continue providing lawful support to the D.C. Metropolitan Police Department. (U.S. Army National Guard video by Master Sgt. William Blankenship)

Mic'd Up: Guard Leaders Stand with Soldiers to Strengthen the Homeland
U.S. Army Soldiers assigned to the Mississippi National Guard conduct a presence patrol near the Thomas Jefferson statue inside the Jefferson Memorial in Washington, Feb. 10, 2026. Operating as part of Joint Task Force–District of Columbia, the Soldiers provide a visible and steady presence at historic landmarks in support of the D.C. Safe and Beautiful mission. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Master Sgt. William Blankenship)

National Guard Presence Patrols Support Public Safety in Washington
U.S. Army Lt. Col. Derek Sutton, commander of Task Force Ironman, goes mic’d up while conducting patrols in Washington, Jan. 13, 2026. Sutton leads Guardsmen from multiple states supporting the D.C. Safe and Beautiful mission, working alongside local and federal law enforcement partners to enhance public safety and visible presence across the nation’s capital.(U.S. Air National Guard video by Master Sgt. William Blankenship)

Mic’d Up: Walking the Mission with Task Force Ironman
U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Leland D. Blanchard II, interim commanding general of the District of Columbia National Guard, visits with Soldiers and Airmen supporting the D.C. Safe and Beautiful mission in Washington, D.C., Jan. 31, 2026. As the senior leader of the D.C. National Guard, Blanchard provides command oversight and guidance to National Guard forces supporting public safety and interagency coordination across the capital. His visit reinforced the importance of disciplined presence, partnership with local and federal agencies, and sustained readiness in support of the mission. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Master Sgt. William Blankenship)

Decisions in Motion: Leadership at Street Level in Washington
Ohio National Guard Soldiers supporting the D.C. Safe and Beautiful mission stand watch in their assigned patrol area in Washington, D.C., January 2026. Through presence patrols across key transit hubs and surrounding neighborhoods, the Soldiers work alongside local and federal law enforcement partners to help deter crime and enhance public safety. Their visible presence reinforces community confidence and supports a coordinated, whole-of-government approach to keeping the nation’s capital safe and accessible. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Master Sgt. William Blankenship)

Finding Common Ground in the Nation’s Capital
Spc. Lily Castro, an Alabama National Guard Soldier assigned to Joint Task Force–District of Columbia, pauses in a Metro station in Washington, Jan. 9, 2026. Castro supports the D.C. Safe and Beautiful mission, operating alongside local and federal law enforcement partners to promote coordination, public safety and confidence across the National Capital Region. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Master Sgt. William Blankenship)

Interagency by Design: Unity of Effort Powers the D.C. Safe and Beautiful Mission
DC National Guard News
D.C. National Guard Boosts Homeland Defense as 260th Special Purpose Brigade Commissions First Maritime Security Vessel
U.S. Army Sgt. Nigeria Myers with the District of Columbia National Guard, assigned to Joint Task Force District of Columbia, in support of the DC Safe and Beautiful mission, assesses the newly transferred 260th Special Purpose Brigade boat in Williamsburg, Va., June 26, 2026. About 4,500 National Guard members are supporting the mission, providing critical assistance to the Metropolitan Police Department to help ensure the safety of residents, commuters, and visitors throughout the District. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Keyra Moolenaar)
July 11, 2026 - The District of Columbia National Guard’s 260th Special Purpose Brigade (SPB) has commissioned its first maritime security vessel, marking the first time an Army unit in the Nation’s Capital has operated a dedicated...
Walk and Talk: On the Move with the Commanding General (ep. 2)
July 3, 2026 - Happy 250th, America—and thank you to the Guardsmen standing watch as our nation celebrates this historic milestone.What does it mean to serve during one of the most historic celebrations in our nation's history?In this...
The Monthly Impact Report: June 2026
June 30, 2026 - This month’s report highlights the moments that defined June 2026 for the D.C. National Guard and Joint Task Force–District of Columbia. Guardsmen closed out June with missions that made a lasting impact—from lifesaving...
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National Guard News
Arkansas National Guard, Guatemalan Partners Build Interoperability
Virginia Army National Guard Soldiers assigned to the Staunton-based 116th Mobile Brigade Combat Team, Arkansas National Guard Soldiers and Guatemalan service members partnered with Arkansas through the Department of War National Guard Bureau State Partnership Program move into the field June 8, 2026, during a training rotation at the Joint Readiness Training Center, or JRTC, at Fort Polk, Louisiana. Brig. Gen. Rusty McGuire, senior trainer for the Virginia Army National Guard’s JRTC rotation, and senior trainer noncommissioned officer Sgt. Maj. Ian Gilliam met with the Soldiers to discuss training operations and multinational interoperability. The 116th Mobile Brigade Combat Team is the first Army National Guard brigade to participate in a JRTC rotation as a mobile brigade combat team after transitioning from an infantry brigade combat team in 2025. JRTC provides U.S. military units and personnel with complex, realistic combat training, including joint and combined-arms operations, force-on-force scenarios and live-fire exercises. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Jeff Clements.
July 16, 2026 - CAMP JOSEPH T. ROBINSON, NORTH LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Arkansas National Guardsmen and Guatemalan Army special forces recently trained together at Fort Polk, Louisiana, during Joint Readiness Training Center, or JRTC, rotation...
Guard Chaplains, Partners Boost Readiness
Multinational participants pose for a group photo during the West African Religious Affairs Symposium, or WARAS, in Accra, Ghana, July 14, 2026. U.S. and African military chaplains from 10 partner nations gather for the three-day exchange to discuss methods to support and strengthen service members' spiritual resiliency. Photo by Airman 1st Class Alexandra Dale.
July 16, 2026 - ACCRA, Ghana – Military chaplains and religious affairs personnel from the National Guard and 10 African nations gathered July 14 for the launch of the West African Religious Affairs Symposium, or WARAS, a three-day event...
Pennsylvania Guard Expands Drone Training
Several shipping containers altered to look like buildings were relocated recently to the grounds of the Pennsylvania National Guard's Fort Indiantown Gap's Unmanned Aircraft System Training and Innovation Facility. The mock village allows Unmanned Aircraft System operators to fly drones around and through simulated buildings in an urban environment. Photo by Brad Rhen.
July 16, 2026 - FORT INDIANTOWN GAP, Pa. – As the battlefield continually shifts toward unmanned aircraft systems, the Pennsylvania National Guard’s Fort Indiantown Gap is expanding its unmanned aircraft systems, or UAS, and counter-UAS...
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In case you missed it! 🇺🇸 The Great American State Fair celebrated the people, traditions, innovations, and spirit that continue to shape America. What other events or attractions do you plan to attend during #Freedom250?🇺🇸 https://t.co/HaEkmkvNrS
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Professionalism. Vigilance. Collaboration. These principles define how Joint Task Force–District of Columbia serves every day. And together, these principles guide how JTF-DC operates, engages, and delivers meaningful support across the District. @IowaNatGuard @arkansasguard https://t.co/mVPG8tcIsW
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"We want to serve, and we volunteer where we're needed." Brig. Gen. Leland D. Blanchard II reflects on the responsibility of leading more than 5,000 National Guard Soldiers and Airmen supporting partners across the nation's capital. https://t.co/Q3IZlrqq5V
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RT @ARNGDirector: The 2026 Army National Guard Best Warrior Competition winners have been announced! Please join us in congratulating SGT…
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Every rotation strengthens Joint Task Force-District of Columbia's ability to remain ready, responsive, and committed to supporting the safety and security of residents, commuters, and visitors across the District. @IowaNatGuard https://t.co/OPjkoW4HKy
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Strengthening trust through service! As the mission continues, every interaction with residents and visitors provides an opportunity for Guardsmen to serve the community, build trust, and reinforce confidence in the mission. @NVNationalGuard https://t.co/fzA3AcyllT
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Building trust through every patrol! By listening, engaging, and serving with integrity, members of the @USNationalGuard build trust and strengthen their connection with the communities they proudly support. #DCSafe https://t.co/TKaK0X9zl6
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RT @USNationalGuard: The @DCGuard1802 now has its first maritime security vessel, strengthening the National Guard’s ability to secure the…
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The Great American State Fair has come to a close, but the commitment to service continues. By engaging with residents and visitors, Guardsmen help strengthen the partnerships that support a safe, welcoming, and secure District. https://t.co/JDiJPjvxez
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Standing #ready, serving together! Guardsmen from the @VIGUARD stand watch during a presence patrol in Washington, D.C. Every patrol strengthens the readiness, discipline, and partnerships that enable mission success. #AlwaysReadyAlwaysThere https://t.co/08Gpk5XdXS
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🚤 New maritime capability. The D.C. National Guard has commissioned the first maritime security vessel ever operated by an Army unit in the nation's capital, expanding its ability to secure waterways and support interagency partners: https://t.co/iP8lTTcIK6 @USNationalGuard https://t.co/jiplpcQ7ng
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Every patrol is an opportunity to strengthen the safety and security of our nation's capital! Working alongside the Metropolitan Police Department and our interagency partners, Guardsmen create a safe environment for the millions who experience Washington, D.C. @arkansasguard https://t.co/cf28Eyenht
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National Guardsmen from multiple states, assigned to Joint Task Force–DC, take the oath of deputation at the D.C. Armory. The deputation enhances the Guard's ability to support federal and local law enforcement partners while reinforcing #readiness. @USNationalGuard https://t.co/vbQqaNZmON
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The District of Columbia Army National Guard's Capital Cohort proudly commemorates the 108th Anniversary of the U.S. Army Warrant Officer Corps. Warrant Officers serve as trusted advisors, innovative problem-solvers, and technical leaders whose expertise strengthens readiness! https://t.co/7JyiX0PfXG
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Leadership isn't learned in a classroom alone—it is earned through challenge, teamwork, and courage. Investing in young leaders today strengthens our communities tomorrow! @USNationalGuard Read more: https://t.co/HwumdoeKRx https://t.co/Zze2XCIrKs
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When seconds mattered, Soldiers with the @nationalguardMS, assigned to Joint Task Force–DC, didn't hesitate. After a civilian was struck by a vehicle near the National Mall on July 5, Guardsmen rendered aid, demonstrating training that defines the @USNationalGuard. https://t.co/iosqJxCsdJ
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Readiness is not a one-time event—it's a daily commitment. @AlabamaNG Soldiers assigned to Joint Task Force–DC sharpen their weapons safety and handling skills as they support #DCSafe. Repetition and standards reinforce discipline required to serve in the capital. https://t.co/0FWwFlj3nE
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Every day is a new day. And every partnership makes us stronger. Partnership is more than working side by side—it's about building trust, sharing experiences, and growing stronger together. @PRNationalGuard https://t.co/iQKIbRJj41
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What are you allowing to shape your mindset? In this week’s Motivational Monday Minute, CH Corwin L. Smith, Acting Command Chaplain for the DCNG, reminds us of a timeless truth: while we cannot always control what happens around us, we always control what happens within us. https://t.co/82L6zjbuqT
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Every family has a Fourth of July tradition—but together, those traditions tell the story of America! #Freedom250 https://t.co/jsovY7CW9D
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Commanding General
                                        
Brig. Gen. Leland D. Blanchard II
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