WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Soldiers and Airmen from the District of Columbia National Guard activated in support of the District’s response to the Coronavirus.
On March, 16, 2020, the Honorable Muriel Bowser, Mayor of the District of Columbia requested the District of Columbia National Guard to provide support the District’s Coronavirus response and prevention efforts. On March 17, 2020, the Honorable Ryan D. McCarthy, Secretary of the Army, approved the Mayor’s request and the National Guard began providing support to the District immediately.
“The District of Columbia National Guard is always ready and proud to support our community! During these trying times, it is important that we come together as one to continue to protect our loved ones, and co-workers and we WILL get through this together. We will work with and support the District and Federal government partners as requested. We will also be vigilant and steadfast in our service, and it is imperative that we all follow medical protective guidelines to ensure we all are safe. Our top priority now is to assist the District of Columbia Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEMA) with their response and prevention effort to the Coronavirus threat,” said Maj. Gen. William J. Walker, Commanding General of the District of Columbia National Guard.
The D.C. National Guard immediately began coordinating and positioned within the District’s HSEMA emergency operations center in order to support interagency response efforts.
The first mission includes supporting D.C. Metropolitan Police in the effort to prevent large groups of citizens from forming due to the goal of "flattening the curve" of the Coronavirus pandemic.
The D.C. National Guard will also soon support the District with medical screening, logistics, planning, security, transportation, and distribution operations.