Guard Keeping Streets Safe, Protecting Federal Property, Say DOW Leaders

War Department leaders provided an update during a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing in Washington today on the National Guard’s mobilization and responsibilities in supporting homeland defense. 

Currently, the National Guard is deployed under both Title 10 and Title 32 authorities, providing support for missions, including federal protection in California, Illinois and Oregon, support to federal law enforcement in Tennessee and restoring law and order in Washington, said Mark R. Ditlevson, principal deputy assistant secretary of war for homeland defense and Americas security affairs.

Ditlevson noted that the department is committed to ensuring all National Guardsmen are properly trained and equipped for these missions.  

“We emphasize de-escalation techniques, respect for civil liberties and adherence to the rules for the use of force. We also work closely with state governments and other federal agencies to ensure a coordinated and effective response to domestic challenges,” he said.  

In addition to transparency and accountability in all activities, Ditlevson said providing peace of mind is also critical. 

“Americans must know that they can walk home at night, that they can take their children to the playground, that they can exist without fear of being attacked,” he said.

War Department Principal Deputy General Counsel Charles L. Young III said the overarching concern is to ensure that communities remain safe places where citizens can enjoy their constitutionally protected rights in peace and where federal officers can perform their valid federal functions without fear of physical harm.

Air Force Gen. Gregory M. Guillot, commander of North American Aerospace Defense Command and U.S. Northern Command, said that every service member participating in federal protection missions is thoroughly trained on their authorities and limitations.  

“It is essential that everyone involved in this mission understands precisely what they are authorized to do, but perhaps more importantly, what they are authorized not to do,” he said.

Title 10 troops are prohibited from conducting traditional law enforcement activities, including arrest, seizure, search or evidence collection in connection with the enforcement of laws, Guillot said, adding that their mission is to take reasonable measures to prevent the destruction of federal property and protect federal personnel from harm. 

“Service members may temporarily restrain civilians, conduct cursory searches or take other similar measures to ensure safety of the persons on the property,” he said.