WASHINGTON, D.C. — Chaplains from the District of Columbia National Guard and the U.S. Secret Service conducted a joint visit to the D.C. Armory and the Logistic Support Area at Joint Base Anacostia–Bolling to assess and enhance spiritual support for service members supporting the D.C. Safe and Beautiful mission.
Col. Vince Cummings, chaplain for the D.C. National Guard, and Mark F. Arbeen, chief chaplain of the U.S. Secret Service, met with senior leaders across multiple locations, including Brig. Gen. Craig M. Maceri, Land Component Commander, and U.S. Air Force Col. Thomas A. Conley, commander of the LSA. The visit focused on interagency coordination and the continued development of integrated religious-support capabilities.
“First, I want to thank the U.S. Secret Service for their partnership with the D.C. National Guard and for their commitment to protecting the citizens of the District of Columbia and the executive leadership of our country,” Cummings said. “I also want to commend Chaplain Arbeen for establishing a spiritual affairs program within the Secret Service and working in tandem with us as a joint interagency partner.
“The synergy within our agency leadership, combined with collaboration at the operational and tactical levels of pastoral care, is vital as we remain true to our identity as D.C. Guardsmen: Capital Guardians. Today marks the beginning of a deepened relationship between the U.S. Secret Service and the D.C. National Guard as we work together to keep the District safe and beautiful.”
Arbeen emphasized the Secret Service’s commitment to supporting the multi-agency effort.
“The purpose of today’s visit was to learn about the interoperability of religious and spiritual support between the D.C. National Guard and other federal entities,” Arbeen said. “And to strengthen collaboration across agencies.”
He also highlighted the Secret Service’s long-standing dual mission.
“The Secret Service is a fantastic organization with a dual mission of investigation and protection,” he said. “We began in 1865 combating counterfeiters and continue that work today. At the same time, we are responsible for safeguarding national and world leaders and ensuring continuity of government.”
Arbeen expressed appreciation for the reception during the visit. “Chaplain Cummings was a fantastic host,” he said. “All the National Guard personnel were exceptionally welcoming, and I look forward to working together during future special security events across the metropolitan area.”
The D.C. National Guard continues to support federal and local partners throughout the D.C. Safe and Beautiful mission, ensuring spiritual, operational and community readiness across the force.