Indiana National Guard arrive in Washington, D.C. to support security mission

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Hundreds of Indiana National Guard members arrived in Washington, D.C.

The planned deployment of 300 soldiers was part of President Trump's Safe and Beautiful mission aimed at offering security to select cities.

Hoosier Guardsmen will assist local and federal law enforcement partners, and they will conduct community safety patrols, manage traffic control posts to reduce crime, minimize property damage and keep the peace.

Indiana National Guard Lt. Col. Derek Sutton, commander of the D.C. contingent, spoke at the departure ceremony at the Johnson County Armory in Franklin on Friday.

“In Washington D.C., our mission is simple. We will help create a saver environment for the people who live, work and visit there. We will support civil authorities and stand as a visible reminder that the National Guard is the bridge between everyday Americans and their military,” said Sutton.

Since mid-November, the Indiana National Guard soldiers trained at Camp Atterbury preparing for their mission which included response, crowd management and de-escalation techniques.

For the evolving mission, Guardsmen will continue training with Joint Task Force – District of Columbia.

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