WASHINGTON (WCSC) – With the United States one day taking over from Joe Biden as 46th president amid a renewed focus on security following the Capitol rebellion, members of the South Carolina National Guard are in DC
More than 600 were sent to the country’s capital to assist with the inauguration.
US Army Brigadier General Jeffrey Jones says the South Carolina National Guard was called in to assist during presidential inaugurations in the past, but it was only a fraction of the number of men and women deployed this year.
“Our guards we sent in the past are significantly smaller than they are now, but this is a different type of possession,” said Jones. “The level of security in the security focus is different from previous rotations, but everything we do here is to support civilian authorities.”
The task force’s primary role is to assist law enforcement with the necessary infrastructure and security checkpoints.
After the January 6 attack on the Capitol, Jones said the district looks different from previous years, as the FBI warns that armed protests are being planned in all 50 state capitals and in the nation’s capital in the days leading up to the inauguration.
“Many security checkpoints, many companies have taken steps to protect their properties,” said Jones. “But I will say that, you still see a spirit of emotion from Washington DC. Wherever we go in what we do, the people of DC thank us for being there. “
The team’s task force headquarters in Washington, DC, is currently in Mount Pleasant to coordinate with the leadership on Capitol Hill and at home.
“We want to thank our resilient families and our loving employers who allow our guards to leave their jobs and leave their homes and come here to answer the call,” said Jones. “We are proud to say that we are from South Carolina. Many guards in the Lowcountry area who are here and serving the state and the nation, they really are Americans at their best. “
The Associated Press is reporting that the FBI is examining all National Guard troops to ensure that no internal attacks are being planned.
Jones said South Carolina units are participating in the verification process this week.
“I think it’s important that we are part of that verification process,” said Jones. “We are undergoing the verification process and again we are comfortable with the soldiers we brought on this mission.
Jones said he did not know how long the troops would be in the district, but were prepared to meet any need before or after the inauguration.
Members of the Georgia National Guard left for DC over the weekend.
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