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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
Memorial Day Message 2026
May 25, 2026 - 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...
Protect the Capital, Defend the Nation: DCNG Unveils Freedom 250 Patch
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. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. 1st Class Jeron Walker)
May 23, 2026 - Leaders of the District of Columbia National Guard (DCNG) have introduced a new assignment patch that highlights their participation in the celebration of honoring Freedom 250 legacy and recognizes the National Guard’s...
JTF-DC Soldiers respond to vehicle accident
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. (Courtesy Asset by Staff. Sgt. Thomas Norris)
May 21, 2026 - U.S. Soldiers with the Arkansas National Guard assigned to JTF-DC in support of the DC Safe and Beautiful mission responded to a vehicle accident involving a diplomatic vehicle near Dupont Circle in Washington, May 15, 2026...
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National Guard News
Maryland Guard, Estonian Partners Strengthen Cyber Readiness
Members of the Maryland National Guard discuss exercise control and scenario development as a part of the white cell part during a multinational cyber defense exercise in Estonia, May 2026. The white cell monitors exercise activity, guides training objectives and dynamically adjusts scenarios to create a realistic training environment for participating cyber operators from allied and partner forces. Immediate Response 2026 brings together U.S. and NATO allied and partner forces in a virtual cyber range focused on collaborative defensive cyber operations to strengthen network security and interoperability. The exercise is part of Sword 26, U.S. Army Europe and Africa's premier annual exercise series taking place from late April through May 2026 across eight countries in the High North and Baltic regions. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Elise Moore.
May 27, 2026 - TALLINN, Estonia – More than 40 Maryland National Guard members participated in Immediate Response 2026, a comprehensive cyber exercise, with their Estonian counterparts at Foundation Cyber Range 14, or CR14, May 16-23.The...
Massachusetts Airmen Sharpen Readiness During Major Aircraft Response Exercise
Members of the 104th Fighter Wing actively participate in a Major Aircraft Response Exercise, or MARE, May 12-14, 2026, at Barnes Air National Guard Base, Westfield, Massachusetts. The exercise incorporated personnel accountability, antiterrorism procedures, Force Protection Condition actions, active shooter response and Continuity of Operations drills, which provided a comprehensive test of the wing’s ability to respond to real-world threats and maintain mission continuity under pressure. Photo by Airman 1st Class Ellen Ozkaptan.
May 26, 2026 - BARNES AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, Mass. – The Massachusetts National Guard’s 104th Fighter Wing strengthened its crisis response capabilities during a Major Aircraft Response Exercise, or MARE, held May 11–14, testing Airmen...
National Guard Gold Star Spouse Turns Grief Into Advocacy
Jane Horton poses next to Ty Dillon's No. 10 Chevrolet before the Coca-Cola 600 NASCAR race at Charlotte Motor Speedway in North Carolina, May 24, 2026. Dillon's race car carried the name of Horton's husband, Army Spc. Christopher David Horton, a sniper assigned to the Oklahoma Army National Guard's 45th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, who was killed Sept. 9, 2011, in Afghanistan. Courtesy photo.
May 26, 2026 - CONCORD, N.C. – The loudest place in American sports knew when to be quiet.At Charlotte Motor Speedway in North Carolina, the Coca-Cola 600 was everything it is supposed to be: horsepower, heat, noise and 600 miles of...
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#WhyIServe 🇺🇸 As a military police officer with the 276th Military Police Company, Spc. Pagan takes pride in safeguarding communities. She credits her uncle, Joel Pagan, a prior Army service member, as a strong influence who helped guide her path to military service. https://t.co/Ztnx4ZwjkN
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Trust isn’t built in a single moment — it’s earned through consistent presence. Whether responding during emergencies, supporting local events, mentoring youth, or standing ready in times of uncertainty, the @USNationalGuard doesn't just protect communities — we are part of them. https://t.co/osaOlQGZRY
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From riding alongside Miss America on a parade float to conducting presence patrols with DC Safe partners, members of the DC National Guard and Joint Task Force–District of Columbia proudly supported the National Memorial Day Parade in Washington. #DCSafe @USNationalGuard https://t.co/ts7nOX6ZVK
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U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Vicki Golding, vocalist for the @257armyband , performed the National Anthem during the opening of the internationally televised NCAA Division I Men’s Lacrosse National Championship. https://t.co/gic380ZMHC
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Victories are built through disciplined choices, consistent execution, and the determination to finish what you start. This #MemorialDay, remember to honor the journey. Respect the process. Finish strong.💪 https://t.co/85QDOD06az
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Recognizing tomorrow’s leaders today 🇺🇸✨ The District of Columbia Public Schools JROTC hosted its annual Cadet Ball and Awards Ceremony. Congrats to all cadets for their dedication, leadership, and commitment to excellence — the future is bright! https://t.co/c9FCbgSym3
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This Memorial Day, we remember those whose absence is still deeply felt by their families, friends, fellow service members, and the nation they swore to protect. @WVNationalGuard @USNationalGuard https://t.co/Wb3ijNDKHl
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Leaders of the District of Columbia National Guard have unveiled a new assignment patch commemorating the #Freedom250 legacy and recognizing the National Guard’s role in supporting key events in the nation’s capital: https://t.co/4HjFbo7IWZ https://t.co/R3QOREvFYu
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After witnessing a serious vehicle accident near Dupont Circle, @NENationalGuard Soldiers rushed toward danger, securing the scene, providing lifesaving aid, and helping rescue occupants trapped inside a diplomatic vehicle: https://t.co/Ns7nq18HYl https://t.co/6Hq7dCFvMT
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For 224 years, the men and women of the District of Columbia National Guard have stood ready to defend the nation’s capital, answer the call in times of war and crisis, and serve something greater than themselves. #Freedom250 https://t.co/LYyLl7tPw0
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After months of rehabilitation following a targeted attack while serving with Joint Task Force–DC, SSgt Andrew Wolfe returned to the spotlight to throw the ceremonial first pitch during National Guard Day at Nationals Park. His recovery reflects dedication on and off the field! https://t.co/ifX7i7i7y0
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On land and water! Joint Task Force-DC met with the U.S. Army Reserve to learn more about maritime operations and emergency response capabilities. The engagement highlighted critical boat operations, interagency coordination, and skills required on District waterways. https://t.co/YfH0tkt44i
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Strengthening readiness through partnership and shared expertise! Soldiers from the D.C. Army National Guard Medical Detachment welcomed leaders of the Burkina Faso Armed Forces during a Shock Trauma Engagement Subject Matter Expert Exchange (SMEE). https://t.co/HxaRsjCXYP
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Honor, service, and America’s pastime! U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe of the @WVNationalGuard delivered the ceremonial first pitch at the Washington Nationals National Guard Appreciation Game at Nationals Park. https://t.co/ILaRt0bDa5
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Today, people nationwide gathered through speeches, music, and commemorative events to launch Rededicate 250 and begin honoring the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. The D.C. National Guard and Joint Task Force-DC stood ready throughout the day’s events. https://t.co/OboXk4Ezd0
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Soldiers with the @GeorgiaGuard, assigned to JTF-DC sharpened their defensive tactics skills through focused training and repetition. By refining critical capabilities and maintaining operational proficiency, our Soldiers and Airmen strengthen the readiness needed to succeed. https://t.co/zJCfcVA3P2
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We recognize the dedication of Capt. April McClung, a @WVNationalGuard nurse serving with JTF-DC in support of #DCSafe. While on mission she helped deliver a baby in a hospital parking lot — a powerful reminder that nurses answer the call whenever and wherever they are needed. https://t.co/y1AqTUotDv
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During National Police Week, Brig. Gen. Leland D. Blanchard II, Commanding General of the DCNG, stands in solidarity with law enforcement, honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice and recognizing the courage and commitment of those who still serve. #WeRemember https://t.co/WXYkQdgokm
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Proficiency in coordination! Soldiers with the @arkansasguard partake in indirect fire coordination training led by Forward Observers at the DC Armory. The training helps service members maintain proficiency in coordination procedures and reinforces unit readiness. #DCSafe https://t.co/fvkB6L60KT
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We honor those who serve on both fronts! During National Police Week, we recognize the extraordinary individuals who serve their communities in more ways than one—law enforcement officers who also answer the call as National Guardsmen. @USNationalGuard https://t.co/95FEXWP9v9
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Commanding General
                                        
Brig. Gen. Leland D. Blanchard II
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