## Overview The District of Columbia National Guard (DCNG) is a unique military organization responsible for both federal and local missions within the nation’s capital. Unlike National Guard units in the 50 states, which are under the authority of their respective governors, the DCNG is legally under the direct command of the President of the United States due to Washington, D.C.’s status as a federal district[1][3]. This distinctive arrangement reflects the city’s unique constitutional and political position. ## Mission and Activities The DCNG’s primary mission is to provide rapid, effective response to emergencies—ranging from natural disasters to civil disturbances—while supporting the continuity of District government operations[2]. Its members are trained and equipped as part of the U.S. Army and Air Force, and they are eligible for all U.S. military awards, in addition to local honors[1]. The organization is structured into both Army and Air components, each led by a general officer, with a major general serving as overall commander[3]. Key activities include disaster relief, public safety support, and community engagement. For example, in late 2025, DCNG personnel partnered with local organizations like the Capital Area Food Bank to address food insecurity, demonstrating their role beyond traditional military duties[4]. The Guard also works closely with the Metropolitan Police Department, with thousands of National Guard members recently mobilized to enhance public safety across the District[4]. ## Historical Context The DCNG traces its origins to 1802, when President Thomas Jefferson established it to defend the newly created capital[1]. Over the centuries, it has played a role in numerous national crises, including civil unrest and wartime support. During the Vietnam War, D.C. Air National Guard pilots volunteered for combat, with some making the ultimate sacrifice[3]. The Guard’s legal framework is also unique: federal law delegates supervision to the Secretary of Defense, who in turn designates officials to administer its affairs