U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Leland D. Blanchard II, Commanding General (Interim) of the District of Columbia National Guard, delivers remarks during the Blue Ridge Honor Flight ceremony in Washington, D.C., recognizing the service and sacrifice of World War II, Korean War, Vietnam veterans, and Gold Star families, at the World War II Memorial, April 18, 2026. The ceremony also included a wreath-laying portion, reinforcing that freedom carries a cost—paid by those who served and their families. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Master Sgt. Arthur M. Wright)
The District of Columbia National Guard hosts its first Law Enforcement Recognition Ceremony on Feb. 26, 2026, at the D.C. Armory to honor officers from partner agencies for their service and contributions to public safety in support of the D.C. Safe and Beautiful mission, a law enforcement and military collaboration started in Aug. 2025. Composed of District and federal law enforcement, and the National Guard, the mission holds accountable...
