Trump Inauguration: Illinois National Guard to send troops to Washington, D.C.
CHICAGO - The Illinois National Guard is set to deploy around 140 members to Washington, D.C. ahead of President-elect Donald Trump's second inauguration on Monday.
Local perspective:
In a statement released Wednesday by the Illinois National Guard, approximately 110 soldiers and 30 airmen are expected to be activated on federal orders to support security operations for the 60th presidential inauguration on Jan. 20.
The force will include 100 military police soldiers from the 933rd Military Police Company, based in Fort Sheridan, as well as 30 Security Forces Airmen from the 183rd Wing based in Springfield, the 126th Air Refueling Wing based at Scott Air Force Base, and the 182nd Airlift Wing based in Peoria.

WASHINGTON, DC - JANUARY 18: National Guard troops ascend the stairs from the Capitol Visitors Center onto the East front as security is tight around the Capitol as the country prepares for the inauguration of President-elect Joe Biden and Vice Presi
Officials said a few service members from the 5th Civil Support Team, based in Bartonville, and the 126th Air Refueling Wing, based at Scott Air Force Base, will provide specialized support in Washington, D.C.
The troops are expected to support the federal task force by conducting site security around the Capitol building, officials said.
What they're saying:
"Supporting the presidential inauguration is a great opportunity for the Illinois National Guard to be part of history and represent the state of Illinois," said Maj. Gen. Rodney Boyd, the Adjutant General of Illinois and Commander of the Illinois National Guard. "Our Soldiers and Airmen are highly trained, and I have full confidence in their abilities to support the local and federal agencies as needed."
Timeline:
The soldiers and airmen will be on duty for approximately 10 days, officials said.
Inaugural Ceremonies at the U.S. Capitol
What we know:
The ceremonies will take place on the West Front of the U.S. Capitol.
Security screening gates open at 5 a.m., music begins at 9:30 a.m. Ticketed guests should arrive by 11:30 a.m.
The theme, "Our Enduring Democracy: A Constitutional Promise," recognizes the Founders’ commitment to preserving democracy.
Carrie Underwood will perform "America the Beautiful" before Trump takes the oath of office at 12 p.m. Former Presidents Obama, Bush, and Clinton are expected to attend.
A farewell to former President Biden and Vice President Harris will occur around noon.
Trump will gather with aides and lawmakers for the President’s Signing Room Ceremony at the U.S. Capitol to sign executive orders or memorandums.
The JCCIC Congressional Luncheon will follow, attended by the new president, vice president, Senate leaders, and JCCIC members.
Trump will review military troops at the East Front steps of the U.S. Capitol, followed by a presidential parade down Pennsylvania Avenue to the White House.
At the White House, Trump will participate in the traditional Oval Office signing ceremony for executive orders or nominations.
Trump will attend three Inaugural balls: Commander in Chief Ball, Liberty Inaugural Ball, and the Starlight Ball. He is scheduled to speak at all three balls.
- Commander in Chief Ball focused on military service members
- Liberty Inaugural Ball geared toward Trump supporters
- Starlight Ball will focus on high-dollar donors
The Source: The information in this story was provided by the Illinois National Guard, The Trump Vance Inaugural Committee, the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies, and the Associated Press.