All National Guard members stationed to DC are "now armed"
Pentagon Press Secretary Kingsley Wilson confirmed the development, stating that “everybody in DC is now armed,” and noted that many Guard members are now conducting joint patrols with local police, emphasizing that their safety is “top of mind.”
The decision follows last week’s attack on two Guard members near the Farragut West metro station, only a short distance from the White House. One of the victims, 20-year-old Sarah Beckstrom, died from her wounds, while 24-year-old Andrew Wolfe remains in the hospital.
The suspected gunman, identified as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, an Afghan national, has been charged with murder, assault, and firearms violations.
According to officials, more than 2,200 Guard members from different states are currently operating under Joint Task Force DC, with roughly 500 more expected to arrive soon.
When asked about possible Guard deployments to other cities, Wilson said she had no new details to share. She emphasized the broader mission, stating:
"I can tell you that our mission set is critical. We are keeping American cities safe all across this country, and we are going to remain committed to that.”
She added that “These missions aren't going to stop in Chicago, in Los Angeles, in DC. We understand the urgent threat that is facing many of these cities, and the National Guard is proud to step in alongside our law enforcement partners to help with that."
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