Washington, D.C. National Guard Extension Announced
Military prolongs deployment of DC National Guard till November 30, as confirmed by authorities
The Washington, D.C. National Guard has been extended to remain on active duty in the nation's capital through November 30, 2021. This decision was announced by Army Secretary Dan Driscoll on Wednesday and was later approved by the U.S. Department of Defense.
The extension comes after the National Guard was mobilized last month by President Donald Trump to address what he perceived as "out of control" crime in the city. The troops have been seen in low-crime areas such as the National Mall, often posing with tourists or participating in Trump's "beautification" project. They have also been involved in cleaning roadways, collecting trash, and disposing of plant waste in coordination with the U.S. National Park Service.
In a video message, Gen. Blanchard stated that the mission is not complete and the encampment has been extended to ensure safety in the city. Brig. Gen. Leland D. Blanchard II, commanding general of the D.C. National Guard, has updated the initial orders.
The extension does not apply to the approximately 1,300 troops deployed from other states. Those troops remain under the control of their governors and are currently under orders to remain through the end of December.
The decision to extend the National Guard deployment was a practical one, as it allows the troops to plan on the extended stay instead of reupping orders every 14 to 29 days as is typical. The extended stay eliminates the possibility of gaps in pay or benefits that occur when tours of duty need to be reapproved several times.
The extension of the National Guard deployment through Nov. 30 allows troops' employers to make arrangements since they typically leave full-time civilian jobs during deployment. All National Guard members deployed to D.C. have already been extended beyond initial orders to secure their eligibility for benefits including pay and health care.
It is important to note that the Department of Justice is reportedly considering a rule that may restrict transgender individuals from owning guns. This fact is not directly related to the National Guard extension in D.C. and is a separate topic.
In conclusion, the extension of the National Guard deployment in the nation's capital through November 30, 2021, is aimed at ensuring safety in the city. The decision is subject to change at the discretion of President Donald Trump.
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