Nebraska Army National Guard soldiers are departing for Washington, D.C. to assist with America250 celebrations. The deployment, announced Jan. 22, will send approximately 190 national guard cavalry, infantry and military police units to the nation’s capital.
The Nebraska soldiers will be assigned to Joint Task Force D.C., where they will participate in “monument security, entry control management and roving presence patrols” with local law enforcement as visitors arrive for America’s semiquincentennial celebrations.
Nebraska National Guard soldiers, their family members and state leaders gathered for a private event Sunday before departing.
“This mission you are about to do is pretty unique,” Nebraska National Guard Major Gen. Craig Strong told the soldiers. “You are going to be serving in our nation’s capital and assisting local law enforcement offices and partner agencies in ensuring that Washington, D.C., remains safe and secure. It is a noble mission.”
Strong urged the Nebraska soldiers to bring a bit of home with them to D.C.
“My expectation for you – as it is in every mission that we take on – is that you will conduct your mission with the absolute professionalism and civility that the Nebraska National Guard and the State of Nebraska are well known for,” Strong said. “I have no doubt that the members of this team will live up to and exceed that standard.”
Gov. Jim Pillen wished the soldiers well, saying Nebraska is proud to do its part in protecting the capital city.
“I am grateful to our many soldiers who are taking part in this deployment, and I appreciate their service over the coming months," Pillen said.