Deployment of West Virginia National Guard personnel to Washington, D.C., could last until late November, although the timing could evolve.
“Currently, we are expecting all members of the West Virginia National Guard deployed for Operation DC Safe & Beautiful to be released from active duty prior to November 30, 2025,” the Guard responded to a MetroNews question about the duration of the deployment.
More than 300 members of the West Virginia National Guard already have been in Washington, D.C., more than a month.
Gov. Patrick Morrisey announced in mid-August that he would send 300 to 400 Guard members to the nation’s capital as part of the Trump administration’s takeover of the city’s law enforcement.
The governor’s announcement noted that the mission would be funded at the federal level. That’s a Title 32 order, typically for natural disasters, where the National Guard remains under the control of the state’s governor but receives pay and benefits from the federal government for federal missions.
“The men and women of our National Guard represent the best of our state, and this mission reflects our shared commitment to a strong and secure America,” Morrisey said at the time.
Two weeks into the deployment, August 27, the Guard put out an update saying West Virginia personnel were continuing to support the joint operation ” in areas of sustainment, logistics, administration, public affairs and Joint Staff augmentation. security missions include static and roving presence patrols.
The statement specified, “WVNG service members are not conducting beautification projects, such as litter collection and site restoration.”
Last week, via email, MetroNews asked National Guard and governor’s office representatives for clarification as the mission reached the one-month mark about whether an end date had been set or if an extension would be necessary.
The Guard responded by pointing to the possibility of deployment lasting to late November.
“As with all military operations, that date may change based on operational needs as they occur. Our Guard is proud to support the President’s initiative to keep our Nation’s Capital safe and to demonstrate our commitment to a strong and secure America,” the Guard stated in the response.