Additional Coverage:
National Guard Mission in D.C. Extended Through 2026
WASHINGTON D.C. – The National Guard’s ongoing mission in Washington, D.C., which has seen troops engaged in various duties from street patrols to public service projects, has been extended until the end of 2026. This development, confirmed by two officials familiar with the matter, provides a longer-term outlook for a task force previously operating under shorter, more frequent extensions.
Initially, orders for the Washington D.C. task force were set to expire in February, following a second extension in October. The new directive explicitly runs through December 31, 2026, though one official noted that these orders could be amended to a shorter duration if circumstances change.
As of Thursday morning, the mission involves 2,429 troops. Approximately 700 are from the D.C. National Guard, with over 1,700 additional personnel drawn from eleven different states, including Florida, South Carolina, Mississippi, West Virginia, Georgia, and Alabama.
Reports last month indicated that the Guard was preparing for a more permanent presence. Discussions had already begun regarding troops remaining in the city this year for the America 250th anniversary celebration, a priority for the White House. Sources have drawn parallels between this potential long-term deployment and the New York National Guard’s anti-terrorism task force, which has maintained a presence at New York City transit hubs since the September 11 attacks.
One official emphasized that this extended timeline offers greater stability for troops who, until now, have faced assignments extended only a few months at a time. A longer, albeit potentially adjustable, extension is expected to provide more predictability for service members and their families.
This extension follows a tragic incident two months ago, where two West Virginia National Guard troops were ambushed and shot near the White House. Spc.
Sarah Beckstrom, 20, succumbed to her injuries, while Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24, survived a critical gunshot wound to the head.
A December update from the West Virginia National Guard reported Wolfe making “extraordinary progress,” able to breathe independently and stand with assistance. Additionally, Staff Sgt.
Jacob Hill from Alabama died during the mission before Thanksgiving, in what officials described as an off-duty medical emergency.
While some National Guardsmen have expressed a strong sense of duty, especially in the wake of the shooting incident, others have voiced frustrations or boredom with the prolonged deployment. Family members have also highlighted the personal sacrifices involved, noting that many troops earn more in their civilian jobs than through National Guard pay.
Military leadership is reportedly working with troops who request to be relieved from the mission for reasons such as schooling or returning to civilian employment. Several dozen troops have already submitted such requests.