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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
DCNG Commanding General's Army 251st Birthday Message
June 14, 2026 - 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...
D.C. National Guard to Host Law Enforcement Career Fair at D.C. Armory June 9
June 5, 2026 - Members of the District of Columbia National Guard will join more than 90 federal and local law enforcement agencies, first responders, training and higher education institutions, and resource organizations during the Law...
How a Soldier's Humanity Helped Two Lives
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. (U.S. Army National Guard courtesy photo)
May 30, 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...
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North Carolina Guardsmen, Customs and Border Protection Conduct Rescue
North Carolina Guardsmen Spc. Michael Smith, driving; Spc. Brycen Anderson; and Staff Sgt. Sethone Kan, 252 Engineering Company,130th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, assigned to Joint Task Force-Southern Border, or JTF-SB, pose for a portrait before a night patrol in Rio Grande City, Texas, June 3, 2026. The Soldiers participated in a rescue mission the night before, working alongside U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents, to rescue an illegal alien who had been bitten by a snake. Northern Command is working side by side with the Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Customs and Border Protection within narrowly defined authorities, to provide unique military capabilities to protect the territorial integrity of the U.S. southern border. Courtesy photo.
June 18, 2026 - RIO GRANDE CITY, Texas – North Carolina National Guardsmen and U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents rescued a suspected illegal alien who was bitten by a snake while attempting to cross the southern border June 2 at...
Pennsylvania Modernizing Drone Training Facility
Chief Warrant Officer 2 Nathan Shea, left, officer-in-charge of the Unmanned Aircraft System Training and Innovation Facility, or UASTIF, at Fort Indiantown Gap, and Sgt. 1st Class Brent Wehr, course manager for the 15X MOS transition course at the UASTIF, trouble-shoot an issue with an unmanned aircraft system on June 10, 2026, at Fort Indiantown Gap, Pennsylvania. Photo by Brad Rhen.
June 18, 2026 - FORT INDIANTOWN GAP, Pa. – The Unmanned Aircraft System, or UAS, Training and Innovation Facility soon will undergo modernization changes that will strengthen its readiness to train Soldiers, including creating an innovation...
Mother, Son Join Pennsylvania National Guard Together
Katherine and Matthew Zito raise their right hands during their enlistment swearing-in as Maj. Andrew Line swears them into the Pennsylvania Army National Guard in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, June 12, 2026. Photo by 2nd Lt. Jessica Barb.
June 18, 2026 - GETTYSBURG, Pa. – For most of the past nine years, it was just the three of them – a mother and her two sons navigating life side by side.Through challenges, loss and perseverance, they built a bond through resilience. Years...
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A well-trained, connected team remains a critical component of mission success! #DCSafe https://t.co/7I88vQrb14
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Welcome our newest members of the @nationalguardMS! Amid #Freedom250 and a summer filled with nationally significant events, they stand ready alongside interagency partners to help ensure Washington, D.C., remains safe, secure, and welcoming for residents and visitors alike. https://t.co/wxoKDBRGxd
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A commitment renewed! Reenlistment is more than extending military service—it is a pledge of duty, leadership, and loyalty to both country and community. Their decision to serve again strengthens the @IDNationalGuard's legacy of readiness! https://t.co/s5SDIDOO3L
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From presence patrols near the White House to supporting operations at FIFA World Cup 2026 Fan Zone, members of the @nationalguardMS remain a visible and vigilant presence in support of the DC Safe and Beautiful mission. https://t.co/BvO4FMvt1a
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RT @SecretService: Thinking about a career with the Secret Service but not sure where to start? Find out Tuesday, June 23 at 5:00 PM ET dur…
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As Guardsmen from across the nation stand watch as part of Joint Task Force–District of Columbia in support of #DCSafe, they are reminded that freedom is strengthened through service, sacrifice, and a shared commitment. #Freedom250 https://t.co/VK5Rm2kCg5
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The UFC Freedom 250 weekend in Washington, D.C., wrapped following a three-day celebration of fan festivals, weigh-ins, and a main event held in the heart of the nation’s capital. The event brought together thousands to celebrate the spirit of American independence! https://t.co/yAxGtJqZ0y
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U.S. Soldiers with the @AKNationalGuard, assigned to Joint Task Force–District of Columbia, conduct presence patrols in Georgetown. Through vigilance and community engagement, Guardsmen work alongside interagency partners to help enhance public safety and provide reassurance. https://t.co/LI4UN6iIbT
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RT @usairforce: A rare Super Delta formation featuring the Thunderbirds and the @USNavy Blue Angels soared above @UFC fans to kick off #UF…
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As nearly two dozen states come together in support of Joint Task Force–District of Columbia, U.S. Army Col. Larry Doane, JTF-DC commander, welcomes Soldiers and Airmen to a mission that will become part of our nation’s story. https://t.co/hsySbxdv8g
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Honoring generations of service!🇺🇸 Brig. Gen. Leland D. Blanchard II, Commanding General (Interim) of the DCNG, joined veterans at the Buffalo-Niagara Honor Flight Mission #23 10th Anniversary Banquet and Awards, serving as the evening’s keynote speaker. #WelcomeHome https://t.co/4ZzIeFAhbP
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Soldiers with the @LANationalGuard, assigned to Joint Task Force–District of Columbia in support of the DC Safe and Beautiful Mission, conduct presence patrols and support entry control point operations at the FIFA World Cup Fan Zone in Washington. https://t.co/TgBcU9z6xR
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🎓 Congratulations are in order! Please join us in congratulating U.S. Army Lt. Col. Ryan Rooks, State Army Aviation Officer for the D.C. National Guard, on graduating from the National War College at National Defense University with a MS in National Security Strategy. https://t.co/FFIYBOKHNc
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The U.S. Army’s 251st Birthday was celebrated during a special Twilight Tattoo performance at JBM-HH, highlighting 251 years of commitment to the nation. The celebration also featured future Soldiers raising their right hands and taking the oath of enlistment. https://t.co/SELa3p2Z2Y
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Building resilience! Events like these remind us that readiness extends beyond physical training and operational capabilities. Strong character, shared purpose, and spiritual resilience fuel purpose, strengthen perseverance, and inspire service members to answer the call! https://t.co/o5sUBUjhlF
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RT @DEAHQ: When law enforcement unites, the whole city benefits. #DEA is here to keep D.C. safe and drug-free! 🌟 #DCSafe @TheJusticeDept @…
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CPR is more than a certification—it's a life-saving skill that can make the difference between life and death in a critical moment. By strengthening emergency response capabilities, these Soldiers are better prepared to assist fellow service members, partners, and the public! https://t.co/Xp3x82lkDu
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As one of many events leading up to the nation's #Freedom250 commemoration, the Spirit of Independence Festival provided an opportunity for National Guard members to foster community engagement, build trust, and strengthen relationships with residents and visitors. https://t.co/wrnaWrrJlP
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What does freedom mean to you? U.S. Soldiers assigned to Joint Task Force–DC reflect on the values they have sworn to defend. For some, freedom is opportunity. For others, it is the ability to pursue dreams, express ideas, and serve something greater than themselves. https://t.co/HC4Mz2vyG8
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🤝Last week, Lt. Gen. (Dr.) Nicole Schilling, German Vice Chief of Defense, met with Brig. Gen. Leland D. Blanchard II, Commanding General (Interim) of the DCNG. Strong international partnerships enhance our collective ability to address today’s evolving challenges. https://t.co/aUthZ9Y51s
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Commanding General
                                        
Brig. Gen. Leland D. Blanchard II
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