Before Walker can start serving as a weapons sergeant in the House, the House must hold a majority vote to confirm his nomination by the Mayor.
“It is an honor to nominate Major General of the District of Columbia National Guard, William J. Walker, to serve as the 38th weapons sergeant in the House of Representatives,” Pelosi said in a statement.
“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, adding, “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. “
The appointment follows the January 6 attack on the United States Capitol, with Pelosi observing in his statement that “Your experience will be an important asset for the House, 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. ”
After protesters invaded the United States Capitol, Pelosi demanded the resignation of Paul Irving, who previously held the position. In the meantime, Paul Blodgett has served as an interim weapons sergeant.
According to Walker’s biography of the DC National Guard, he oversaw a number of important priorities, including taking responsibility “for strategic leadership, training, readiness, operational employment, and performance of the Army and Air Force components of the National Guard. District of Columbia. ”
Some states and the District of Columbia have mobilized thousands of members of the National Guard to provide security for the city of Washington after the deadly riot at the United States Capitol.
This story was updated with further developments on Friday.