District of Columbia National Guard supports civil authorities during Independence Day celebration

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WASHINGTON, DC (07/04/2018) (readMedia)-- The District of Columbia National Guard will support local authorities during the July 4 celebration activities, in and around the National Mall area.

Citizen Soldiers and Airmen from the D.C. National Guard will support the D.C. Homeland Security Emergency Management Agency, Metropolitan Police Department, Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority, D.C. Fire and Emergency Medical Services and U.S. Park Police in their efforts to facilitate safety and security for people attending activities in and around the National Mall area.

D.C. National Guard Soldiers and Airmen will augment these agencies by participating in perimeter security, crowd management, traffic management, and chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear explosive detection and response missions.

Additionally, the DCNG's 257th Army Band will be marching in the National Independence Day parade on Constitution Ave at 11:45 a.m.

People attending downtown events are encouraged to plan accordingly, and should always report any suspicious packages or dangerous activities to law enforcement.

The DCNG has historically provided this support to the community and has supported many national special security events such as presidential inaugurations, nuclear security summits and state of the union addresses. As part of the National Guard's state mission, the DCNG works to maintain partnerships with District and federal agencies to be a relevant and reliable asset in times of need. Today's mission is to ensure the safety and security of all citizens and visitors celebrating Independence Day in the nation's capital.

For more information contact D.C. National Guard Public Affairs Officer, Maj. Byron Coward at 202-821-7181/202-685-9862 or byron.b.coward.mil@mail.mil.