WASHINGTON – U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Leland D. Blanchard III, the Commanding General (interim) of the D.C. National Guard, in support of local law enforcement agencies, gave the order for Guard members supporting Joint Task Force-DC to carry their service-issued weapons. The decision comes at the direction of the Secretary of Defense and in coordination with the Metropolitan Police Department and federal law enforcement partners.
Blanchard made the decision to order Guard members to carry their service-issued weapons after careful consideration of the security environment. “This decision is not something taken lightly,” said Blanchard. “We are in coordination with our law enforcement partners and all appropriate review processes are in place.”
Guard members on the mission will carry M17 pistols, which are intended for personal protection. Guard members receive initial, regular, ongoing and refresher training, as well as complete annual weapons qualifications, prior to carrying weapons.
The President of the United States directly commands the D.C. National Guard, the only National Guard force not under a state or territory governor’s authority under Title 32 U.S.C. § 110; D.C § 49-409.
The Joint Task Force – District of Columbia mission is conducted under Title 32 U.S. Code § 502(f), which allows Guard members on Title 32 status—under state command but federally funded— to perform duties in support of law enforcement. Unlike active-duty troops on Title 10 status, National Guard members are not restricted by the Posse Comitatus Act, Title 18 U.S.C. § 1385, when operating under the governor’s authority.
“Our task force members incorporate de-escalation techniques within the D.C. National Guard rules for the use of force,” said COL Larry Doane, JTF-DC Commander. “Incorporating all of these measures ensures they are fully prepared to support law enforcement and safeguard the residents of Washington D.C.”
JTF-DC continues to work closely with the District and federal partners to maintain public safety and security.
For more information, contact the Joint Information Center at jtf-dcmediadesk@army.mil or 202- 880-4267.
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