7,000 National Guard Troops To Remain In Washington DC Until Mid-March

Thousands of US National Guard personnel will remain in Washington DC supporting federal law enforcement agencies over the coming weeks.

The extension of their commitment comes following requests for assistance at President Joe Biden's inauguration last week.

Acting US Army Secretary John E. Whitely said around 7,000 personnel will remain deployed between now and the middle of March, when the number is likely to be cut to about 5,000.

Law enforcement will take the lead and the National Guard will be used as a last resort, Mr Whitely said.

"I'd like to thank our National Guard soldiers and airmen for the hard work, swift response and steadfast dedication," he added.

"They're committed to ensuring that our capital remains secure.

"This mission shows the breadth, flexibility and resolve of the National Guard and the sacrifice and service that provides to our nation."

The requests for help came from the US Park Police, US Secret Service, the US Capitol Police and the Metropolitan Police Department of Washington DC.

All four requests have been approved, Mr Whitely said, meaning the National Guard will help with things such as security, communications, medical evacuation, logistics and safety support.

"National Guard members will be postured to meet the requirements of the supported civil authorities up to and including protective equipment and arming if necessary," he added.

Watch: What is the US National Guard?

Army General Daniel R. Hokanson, chief of the National Guard Bureau, said there are currently about 13,000 National Guard troops in the District of Columbia.

He said the logistics involved in moving 25,000 National Guard personnel from every state to the District of Columbia for the inauguration in less than two weeks, and supporting them, had been unprecedented.

"It speaks volumes about the support we received from our governors and adjutants general," he said.

"It also speaks to the investment America has made in the National Guard's ability to respond whenever and wherever we are needed."

All 25,000 National Guard personnel deployed for Mr Biden's inauguration on 20 January were vetted by the FBI after US officials became worried about the possibility of an insider attack or other threat from personnel involved in securing the ceremony.

Twelve members of the National Guard were removed from duty ahead of the event as part of security measures.

Cover image: National Guard helmet in the grounds of the US Capitol (Picture: USA Today Network/SIPA USA/PA).