WASHINGTON –
The District of Columbia National Guard hosted a moving retirement ceremony at the D.C. Armory on Sept. 13, to honor Ms. Nancy Foreman for her remarkable career which spanned more than five decades of dedication to the Guard and the city of Washington.
The ceremony began with opening remarks by Mr. Marcus Hunt, Director of D.C. Government Operations for the D.C. National Guard. Hunt praised Foreman for her exceptional work, noting her critical role in shaping the Guard's operations. “Nancy’s efforts weren’t just crucial to readiness, they also set a standard for excellence,” Hunt said.
Following the remarks, Maj. Gen. John C. Andonie, commanding general (Interim), presented Foreman with the D.C. National Guard Meritorious Service Medal (MSM). The award recognized her “unparalleled dedication” and highlighted her groundbreaking work in organizing National Stock Number codes and processing deployment orders for troops. “I'm just in awe of your experience and all of the things that you encountered with this organization,” he said. “You truly are a legacy to all of us here, and I don't think we can thank you enough for your service and your dedication and commitment to the D.C. National Guard.”
Foreman, who began her career with the Guard in 1968, was visibly moved as she accepted the honor and as her achievements were recounted to the audience, including her meticulous attention to detail and her tireless commitment to ensuring operational readiness of a combat reserve of the Army and Air Force, and a community-based force that also supports the District’s communities.
In a special moment, a letter from Washington, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser was read aloud, congratulating Foreman on her retirement. “Nancy, you are a shining example of leadership, an incredible embodiment of selflessness, and a true representation of our D.C. values,” the letter read. Mayor Bowser thanked Foreman for her years of service and dedication to the city’s safety and security.
The ceremony continued with a solemn flag-folding presentation by the Honor Guard, symbolizing the decades of service Foreman dedicated to her country. The flag, which represents the unity and perseverance of the nation, was presented to Foreman as a tribute to her long-standing commitment.
Several dignitaries, including General Jamie Areizaga-Soto, Special Assistant to the General Counsel, National Guard Bureau and Ms. Nicole McDermott, Chief of Staff for D.C. Government Operations, presented Foreman with gifts in recognition of her retirement. Family members, including her granddaughter, Ms. Erica Collins, also shared heartfelt words about her remarkable journey with the Guard. “I’m so happy to hear that she was loved so much by you guys here as she was at home,” said Collins.
Ms. Foreman’s retirement marks the end of an era for the D.C. National Guard, but her legacy will continue to inspire future generations. Her 56 years of service, most recently as an administrative assistant reflects a profound commitment to the nation, and she leaves behind an enduring impact on Soldiers, Airmen, civilians and her community.