DC National Guard extension keeps troops in the capital through 2026

National Guard members in Washington, DC will remain on duty through December 31, 2026, extending a security and public-service mission that had been set to end earlier. About 2,429 troops are deployed—roughly 700 from DC and 1,700 from other states across 11 states—with officials saying the longer extension provides stability for troops and families while planners consider a longer-term DC presence tied to the America 250th anniversary. The move follows recent incidents involving Guardsmen and comes amid discussions about a more permanent DC presence, alongside ongoing personal sacrifices and some troops opting to leave the mission for civilian life.