WASHINGTON - Two hundred twenty-two years ago, the District of Columbia Militia, hailing from every class and occupation, reported for duty near Rawlins Park. At this muster, leaders conducted roll call for each individual in the militia and taught the latest military tactics, which the unit members then practiced. Musters for training also unified the citizens of the settlements under a common purpose and enhanced readiness and cohesiveness.
On Oct. 30, the D.C. National Guard commemorated the 222nd anniversary of its first muster, honoring its lineage and forbearers. All major commands of the D.C. Army and Air National Guard attended, with organizational guidons and streamers representing every campaign it served, dating back to the War of 1812.
The event honored the D.C. National Guard’s long history of service, from its beginnings as the D.C. Militia in 1802 to its modern-day role in defending the nation’s capital and supporting missions worldwide.
“Today, we commemorate the anniversary of our first muster and honor those who have built and upheld the legacy of this organization,” said Maj. Gen. John C. Andonie, commanding general (interim) of the D.C. National Guard. “From defending our nation’s capital in times of war to responding to emergencies and natural disasters, we stand on the shoulders of those who served before us.”
He underscored the organization’s connection to key moments in U.S. history, including the Civil War, World War I, World War II, Vietnam, Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm, and the ongoing mission supporting CENTCOM.
He also highlighted domestic operations, such as COVID-19 relief missions, State of the Union addresses and presidential inaugurations.
“We continue to bolster a force that’s focused on core missions — partnership building, homeland defense and response, and Army and Air combat readiness,” Andonie said.
The event featured performances by the 257th Army Band and a posting of colors by the D.C. National Guard Color Guard. Capt. Andrew Hargroder recounted the original muster on Oct. 30, 1802, when 700 to 1,000 men from the city traveled by foot or horse to a racetrack called the Washington Jockey Club for the first militia drill.
“As mandated by the Militia Act of 1792, the men of the First Legion were free, able-bodied white male citizens of the city between 18-45 years old,” said Hargroder. “They represented the extent to which many American lawmakers of that era believed who could or should be a Citizen-Soldier.”
The men were artisans, laborers and professionals, bound by duty to protect the government, the capital and their communities. Hargroder and senior leaders agree the modern D.C. National Guard member has played a significant role in the evolution of America’s Citizen-Soldier, from a narrow definition to an expansive identity representative of the diversity and strength of the nation.
“Their commitment laid the foundation for what the D.C. National Guard stands for today,” Hargroder said.
During the event, Andonie administered the enlistment oath to recruits, reaffirming the D.C. National Guard’s commitment to the nation, the capital and the people of Washington.
Brig. Gen. Leland L. Blanchard II, the adjutant general, dismissed the formations at the ceremony’s close.
“This ceremony is a reminder of the unbroken chain of service that connects the past, present and future of the D.C. National Guard,” said Capt. Robert Schapiro, who narrated the program.
The event concluded with the 257th Army Band playing the Army and Air Force songs.