House Speaker Nancy Pelosi chose Major General William Walker, chief of the National Guard for the District of Columbia, as the House’s next arms sergeant, she announced on Friday, which would make him the first black American to occupy the position.
The security of the Chamber will now be headed by someone with military background. The change of leadership follows the deadly riot at the Capitol on January 6, after which the heads of security in the House and Senate resigned along with the Capitol Police chief. The Senate also selected a former military leader, retired Lt. Gen. Karen Gibson, as its weapons sergeant.
Walker led the Army and Air Force components of the DC National Guard, according to his official biography. He was tasked with ensuring that the units are “manned, trained, equipped and ready for war and any national emergency”.
Walker testified at a Senate hearing on the January 6 attack, saying there was an “unusual” delay in obtaining approval to send aid to the Capitol during the riot.
“Throughout his long and dedicated career in public service, General William Walker has proved to be a leader of great integrity and experience, who will bring his stable and patriotic leadership to this vital role,” said Pelosi in a statement. “His historic appointment as the first black American to serve as a sergeant-at-arms is an important step for this institution and our nation.”
For 30 years, Walker served as a special agent for the Drug Enforcement Administration and, simultaneously, a member of the National Guard.
“Your experience will be an important resource for the Chamber, especially in light of the January 6 uprising. It is essential that we work to strengthen our institution and keep our Capitol community, and everyone who visits us, safe,” said Pelosi.
Republican House leader Kevin McCarthy also praised the selection in a statement.
“I am confident that he has the experience, skill set and vision necessary to carry out the expansive responsibilities of the Sergeant at Arms Office,” he said.
