WASHINGTON – The District of Columbia National Guard was activated Aug. 11 to support local and federal law enforcement efforts aimed at restoring order in the District of Columbia. The activation aligns with the President’s executive order declaring a crime emergency.
Currently over 1,900 Guardsmen from the D.C. National Guard, West Virginia, South Carolina, Ohio, Mississippi, Louisiana and Tennessee are assisting the District and federal government agencies. The Guardsmen, who have a dual mission to serve the nation and the District, are providing a visible presence to support law enforcement and deter crime. Their specific tasks vary based on the needs of law enforcement partners. Personnel may be armed, consistent with their training, depending on the mission, operating under civilian law enforcement. The National Guard is prepared to augment its forces if needed.
The Joint Task Force District of Columbia is a scalable and tailored entity supporting mobilizations of the D.C. National Guard. In addition to routine presence patrolling, guardsmen have assisted Amtrak police Aug. 14 and U.S. Park Police at the Smithsonian Metro station August 15 (see story link below).
"The members of the District of Columbia National Guard are highly trained and capable of assisting our interagency partners to keep the District safe," said U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Leland D. Blanchard, commanding general (interim), D.C. National Guard. "Our responsibility is to bring back order and follow the President's mandate."
The National Guard remains capable. The mobilization will continue until law and order is restored, with the duration depending on the situation and the assessment of law enforcement partners. The goal of the DC Safe and Beautiful Task Force is to restore a safe environment. All personnel are operating under applicable laws and regulations.
To further enhance public safety and security for commuters, the task force supports missions at Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority metro stations in addition to the exterior. Service members are patrolling Foggy Bottom, Smithsonian, Eastern Market, Stadium Armory, Waterfront, McPherson Sq, L’Enfant Plaza, Gallery Place, Metro Center and NoMa-Gallaudet U. These efforts are meant to strengthen safety and support the mission.
“These extraordinary service members are here to serve the task force. Many are traditional Guard members who left behind their civilian careers and families with little notice to come help us in the District. It’s the finest tradition of the guard to be able to serve our communities”, said U.S. Army Col. Larry Doane, Joint Task Force-DC commander. “We never do this alone so I would like to personally thank the families, employers, and our neighbors for their support. We couldn’t do any of this without you.”
Lodging and meals
Guard members have lodging conveniences at their disposal throughout the District. Such accommodations are necessary for the safeguard of our members while they execute the mission at hand. The National Guard prioritizes the safety of its members and the public.
Local vendors have been contracted to provide three daily meals for guard members, ensuring access to nutritious food while supporting the local economy. This initiative enhances service members' health and performance, while also fostering community engagement and strengthening partnerships with local businesses.
Vehicle Incident
Joint Task Force-DC is aware of an incident on Aug. 20, 2025 involving a D.C. National Guard transport vehicle and a civilian vehicle at 8th Street SE and North Carolina Avenue. A five-vehicle convoy and a D.C. police cruiser stopped and helped the civilian, who was taken to a hospital. The driver of the transport vehicle, a National Guardsman, has been ticketed for running a red light. The D.C. The National Guard and JTF-DC are cooperating with local law enforcement.
"We are aware of the incident," said U.S. Army Col. Larry Doane, commander, JTF-DC. "Our priority is ensuring the well-being of all involved. We are grateful for the response of D.C. police and EMS. Safety is our top priority. We will take action based on the investigation. This type of vehicle is authorized, and safety protocols are in place."
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