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7,800 National Guard Troops to Wear Special Patches at Trump Inauguration Monday

Jan 19, 2025, 05:29 AM

The National Guard will implement a new measure at President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration on Monday to ensure clear identification of its members. Nearly 7,800 Guard troops from over 40 states will be deployed in Washington, D.C., to provide security and support during the event. To distinguish themselves from law enforcement, Guard members will wear a special shoulder patch featuring the motto 'Always Ready, Always There' and a minuteman symbol. This decision, authorized by Maj. Gen. John Andonie and Brig. Gen. Leland Blanchard of the District of Columbia Guard, comes in response to past events where it was challenging to differentiate between police and military personnel. The patch aims to improve clarity and reinforce the Guard's role in ensuring a peaceful transition of power. The inauguration, moved indoors due to frigid weather, will see Guard troops assisting with crowd management, traffic control, and other security measures. Officials have expressed confidence in the robust security preparations, which include extensive coordination among federal, military, and law enforcement agencies.