FRANKFORT, Ky. — The Kentucky National Guard is heading back to Washington D.C. next week to help local police with security operations through March 2021. 5,000-7,000 Guardsmen from across the country will be providing support.

Volunteers from the 149th Maneuver Enhancement Brigadewill will oversee the mission and help with protecting property and providing a safe place for people to peacefully gather and protest. National Guard assistance was requested by federal and local authorities in Washington, DC following the inauguration of President Joe Biden. 

In a statement provided to Spectrum News 1, Brig. Gen. Hal Lamberton said, "Law enforcement in DC has requested additional Guard support into March and we're willing to do our part." Lamberton added, "The Soldiers from the 149th MEB will represent Kentucky and work alongside service members from many other states to help where most needed. We're incredibly proud of their continued efforts."

Almost 350 service members took part in the Presidential Inauguration. They all returned home on Jan. 24. 

Lamberton, the Adjutant General of Kentucky, said the solder will provide support similar to that provided for the inauguration.

Command Sgt. Major Benzie Timberlake, the senior enlisted Soldier for 1st Battalion, 149th Infantry lead Kentucky's response to the Presidential Inauguration and said the experience was very positive. Timberlake said in a statement, "Our Soldiers really enjoyed themselves in Washington for the Inauguration," said Timberlake. "Our fellow Kentuckians can rest easy knowing that all of our Soldiers were treated with the dignity and respect they deserved. We were not forced to sleep in parking garages, were fed way too much food, and all lodged in 5-star hotels."

The soldiers will once again be staying in hotels, receiving meals throughout the day, and will work standardized shifts.

The Kentucky National Guard also has more than 180 Soldiers and Airmen continuing to provide support to the ongoing COVID-19 Pandemic across the Commonwealth, in addition to service members currently deployed overseas in combat operations.