North Dakota National Guard Deployed to Washington, DC

Around 60 soldiers will assist with security in the nation's capital for a 3-month mission.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 1:11am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The North Dakota National Guard is sending around 60 soldiers, primarily from the 131st Military Police Battalion in Bismarck, to Washington, DC next month to help increase safety and security in the nation's capital. The deployment is part of a national initiative that started in 2025 when President Trump declared a crime emergency in DC.

Why it matters

The deployment of National Guard troops to DC is a significant move aimed at bolstering security and addressing concerns about crime and public safety in the nation's capital. It reflects ongoing efforts by federal and state authorities to maintain order and protect key government institutions and officials.

The details

The North Dakota National Guard soldiers will assist the DC Metropolitan Police Department and federal law enforcement partners during the 3-month mission. Officials say the Guardsmen will represent the state with 'skill and professionalism' as part of a larger team of National Guard members from other states.

  • The mission is scheduled to begin next month.
  • The deployment is expected to last 3 months.

The players

Gov. Kelly Armstrong

The governor of North Dakota who expressed pride in the National Guard soldiers volunteering for this 'important mission'.

U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Mitch Johnson

The North Dakota National Guard adjutant general who said the Guardsmen will be 'part of a great team' assisting law enforcement in DC.

President Donald Trump

The former president who signed an executive order in 2025 declaring a crime emergency in the District of Columbia, leading to the current National Guard deployment.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Safeguarding the citizens, federal workers and elected leaders in our nation's capital is a matter of national security, and we appreciate these Soldiers volunteering for this important mission.”

— Gov. Kelly Armstrong, Governor of North Dakota

“I am extremely proud of our Soldiers who took on this mission. They will assist the D.C. Metropolitan Police Department and Federal law enforcement partners. Our North Dakotans will be part of a great team with fellow Guardsmen from other states.”

— U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Mitch Johnson, North Dakota National Guard Adjutant General

What’s next

The North Dakota National Guard soldiers are scheduled to deploy to Washington, DC next month for their 3-month mission.

The takeaway

This deployment of National Guard troops to the nation's capital reflects ongoing concerns about public safety and security in DC, and the willingness of state authorities to contribute resources to address these issues at the federal level.