Friday, March 29, 2024

‘Betrayed’: National Guard Booted From Capitol After ‘Inauguration’, Forced to Sleep in Garages

Authorities have forced National Guardsmen out of the Capitol complex and into nearby parking garages in 34 degree weather, following the uneventful “inauguration” of Joseph R. Biden.

The disgraceful treatment of the nation’s military came just hours after the partisan, political use of the troops in order to “secure” the almost empty event overlooking the National Mall.

Images obtained by POLITICO reveal the shocking behavior by Capitol authorities who have banished National Guardsmen to local parking garages in the freezing, Washington D.C.-winter weather.

The paper also reported:

One unit, which had been resting in the Dirksen Senate Office building, was abruptly told to vacate the facility on Thursday, according to one Guardsman. The group was forced to rest in a nearby parking garage without internet reception, with just one electrical outlet, and one bathroom with two stalls for 5,000 troops, the person said.

“Yesterday dozens of senators and congressmen walked down our lines taking photos, shaking our hands and thanking us for our service. Within 24 hours, they had no further use for us and banished us to the corner of a parking garage. We feel incredibly betrayed,” the Guardsman said.

All National Guard troops were told to vacate the Capitol and nearby congressional buildings on Thursday, and to set up mobile command centers outside or in nearby hotels, another Guardsman confirmed. They were told to take their rest breaks during their 12-hour shifts outside and in parking garages, the person said.

Guardsmen who spoke with POLITICO were not given a clear reason why they were asked to vacate the buildings. The first Guardsman said it may have been due to a complaint that some troops were not wearing masks, but denied that was the case.

“We have strict guidance that masks are to be worn at all times unless soldiers are eating and drinking,” the Guardsman said.

Capitol Police asked troops to move their rest area on Thursday, said Guard spokesperson Maj. Matt Murphy.

“As Congress is in session and increased foot traffic and business is being conducted, Capitol Police asked the troops to move their rest area,” Murphy said. “They were temporarily relocated to the Thurgood Marshall Judicial Center garage with heat and restroom facilities. We remain an agile and flexible force to provide for the safety and security of the Capitol and its surrounding areas.”

The news comes as it emerged the Guard may be in D.C. for up to 31 days.

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