Washington, D.C. – Uniformed soldiers and airmen from the D.C. National Guard could be seen walking the concourse of Nationals Park on August 19, part of an active support mission assisting local law enforcement as part of the “Safe and Beautiful Task Force.”
Assigned to Joint Task Force District of Columbia, the Guardsmen were deployed to bolster public safety and strengthen community presence during ongoing operations at the ballpark and beyond.
Among them was Air Force Chaplain (Maj.) Jay Green of the 113th Wing, who said the mission holds personal meaning. “I grew up here all my life and this mission is very important,” Green said. “It helps show the public that we actually care about them.”
The task force’s work includes foot patrols, direct coordination with police, and serving as an additional line of observation and response during public events. Soldiers report incidents to proper authorities, while simultaneously building trust with the public.
Green added that the visible presence of Guardsmen at high-profile venues sends a message: “We’re there with you, that we care about you, and that we want to make sure that this place is safe.”
Army Col. Larry Doane, who commands the task force, emphasized that the Guard’s readiness comes from years of joint training with federal and local agencies. “When units are called up, they can rely on the habits they’ve built,” Doane said.
Army 2nd Lt. Etop Ekanem, a chaplain candidate with the 372nd Military Police Battalion, echoed the pride felt by those serving their own communities. “It definitely feels good to be utilized at home as opposed to abroad,” he said.
The mission at Nationals Park is one of several domestic assignments undertaken by the D.C. National Guard in recent years. In addition to security duties, the Guard continues to support local law enforcement across the District in collaboration with the Metropolitan Police Department and Park Police.
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Key Points
- D.C. National Guard is patrolling Nationals Park in support of local law enforcement
- The Guard’s “Safe and Beautiful Task Force” aims to provide public reassurance and security
- Leaders emphasize community connection, spiritual care, and readiness for home missions
A peaceful presence in uniform, the Guard’s mission at Nationals Park is about more than security—it’s about solidarity.