Army support to the DC Safe and Beautiful Task Force
By U.S. Army Public Affairs August 14, 2025
WASHINGTON -- The Department of the Army and the D.C. National Guard has responded swiftly to the President's orders. Within the last 24 hours, Guardsmen arrived and were out on missions, assisting law enforcement in the nation's capital beginning Tuesday evening.
These dedicated service members completed in-processing and were personally addressed by Secretary of the Army Dan Driscoll on Tuesday morning. Their initial mission is to provide a visible presence in key public areas, serving as a visible crime deterrent. They will not arrest, search, or direct law enforcement. While they will not conduct arrests, they have the authority to temporarily detain individuals to prevent imminent harm, ensuring that custody is promptly transferred to law enforcement authorities.
They are equipped with personal protective equipment to include body armor; weapons are available if needed but will remain in the armory. Primarily, the first teams on the ground are using their High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicles, commonly known as HMMWVs. Future requirements will be assessed and determined based on the evolving needs of the supported law enforcement agencies.
The Department of the Army and the D.C. National Guard are firmly dedicated to protecting the capital. Our forces are fully prepared to adapt and respond swiftly to any changes in the operational environment, instilling confidence, and a strong sense of security within the community.
|
NEWSLETTER
|
| Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list |
|
|
|
