WASHINGTON — More than 800 National Guard members secured the nation’s capital June 14 when the U.S. Army celebrated its 250th birthday.
Guard members from the District of Columbia, Mississippi, West Virginia and Pennsylvania assisted various agencies and played a crucial role in ensuring the safety of events. Guard members supported the U.S. Park Police with crowd management, assisted the U.S. Secret Service with queuing lines and crowd flow and aided the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) with street-level crowd management at Metro stations and traffic control points.
“The Army National Guard is a unique and integral part of the Total Army,” said U.S. Army Maj. Gen. John C. Andonie, commanding general (interim) of the District of Columbia National Guard. “Today, more than ever, we stand alongside the greatest Army in the world. Just as in the first line of the Army Song, let us all ‘march along…with the Army of the free.’”
The National Guard’s presence helped ensure the event proceeded smoothly and safely before concluding with a concert and fireworks display.
“The National Guard plays a vital role in collaborating with local officials, which sets us apart,” said U.S. Air Force Maj. David Schonberg, commander of the 113th Wing Force Support Squadron, District of Columbia Air National Guard. “It is a fundamental part of our mission that we truly value.”
The celebration also coincided with the District of Columbia National Guard’s 223rd birthday. Formed in 1802 by President Thomas Jefferson, the District of Columbia Guard has a unique status as the only National Guard unit reporting directly to the president.
“On this historic day, we honor the legacy and resilience of our Soldiers and the nation,” Andonie said. “The unity and strength displayed is a testament to our commitment to defend and uphold the principles upon which our country was founded.”
The District of Columbia Guard’s 33rd Weapons of Mass Destruction Civil Support Team and the West Virginia National Guard’s Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and High Yield Explosives Enhanced Response Force Package also were activated to ensure a safe and secure environment during the Army’s 250th birthday celebration.
Additionally, four members of the District of Columbia National Guard’s 257th Army Band performed in the parade with the New York Army National Guard’s 42nd Infantry Division Band, representing the National Guard at a special request.
“The DC National Guard stands proud, reflecting on our shared history and dedication to the mission,” Andonie said. “We are privileged to support this significant milestone, showcasing our unity and strength as part of the Total Army. Happy 250th to the U.S. Army!”