SEPTEMBER 25, 2025 — In late summer, the 112th Military Police Battalion, Mississippi National Guard and the 239th Military Police Company, Louisiana National Guard, established a historic interstate partnership to provide support to law enforcement agencies during the Washington, D.C. Safe and Beautiful mission.
This battalion-led operation marks the first time in U.S. history that these National Guard units have integrated under one command to support Joint Task Force – District of Columbia. Their mission is to provide professional support to the D.C. Metropolitan Police Department during Operation Safe and Beautiful D.C., a strategic initiative directed by the U.S. Marshals Service.
“This mission exemplifies the National Guard’s capability to integrate seamlessly across state boundaries in service to our nation,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Larry Primeaux, 112th Military Police Battalion, Mississippi National Guard. “The exceptional professionalism and cooperation demonstrated here reflect the fundamental strength of our Guard family.”
The joint task force consolidated hundreds of highly trained personnel focused on supporting law enforcement agencies to ensure security throughout the National Capital Region. Guard members have been strategically positioned in high-traffic areas surrounding the Capitol grounds, National Mall, Union Station, Washington Monument, Nationals Park and various Metro stations throughout the city.
“Our primary focus centers on executing presence patrols throughout the National Capital Region,” explained Lt. Col. Steven Jackson, commander of the Mississippi National Guard Task Force in D.C. “Our troops are conducting these patrols to assist law enforcement agencies in deterring criminal activity and establishing a secure environment in Washington, D.C.”
Operating from a centralized tactical operation center, leaders from both states implemented coordinated patrol schedules, communications protocols and logistical support, creating a unified force functioning with precision.
“The collaboration has demonstrated exceptional professionalism, mutual respect and mission focus,” said Capt. Alex Wiltz, commander of the 239th Military Police Company, Louisiana National Guard. “Our combined operational efforts have significantly enhanced efficiency and strengthened interstate partnerships, reflecting the National Guard’s unwavering commitment to unity, readiness and service to the nation.”
Beyond providing support to law enforcement, Guard members frequently assist disoriented visitors, reunite separated families, engage professionally with citizens, respond to medical emergencies and provide navigational guidance to those traversing the city.
“Every Soldier comprehends that this mission transcends basic security support,” Primeaux said. “It centers on creating a welcoming atmosphere for visitors to the capital while representing our states with the highest standards of professionalism.”
Staff Sgt. Jessie Allen, detachment sergeant for the Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment of the 112th Military Police Battalion, Mississippi National Guard, said the deployment provides a profound professional experience.
“I have completed overseas deployments, but standing at the Capitol, supporting the protection of our own citizens, represents something uniquely meaningful. It reinforces the fundamental purpose of our service,” Allen said.
Both District of Columbia and federal officials have commended the Joint Task Force for its exceptional professionalism, tactical adaptability and positive security presence during this operation.
“Upon successful mission completion and the full restoration of law and order, our units will return to our respective states to resume steady-state operations and continue maintaining optimal unit readiness,” Jackson said.
By Sgt. 1st Class Renee Seruntine
102d Public Affairs Detachment