Army Major Welch supports presidential inauguration

By CourtesyNovember 2, 2016

Army Major Welch
U.S. Army Maj. Brian Welch, a Eolia, Mo. native, joined the Joint Task Force - National Capital Region in support of the 58th Presidential Inauguration, which will take place Jan. 20, 2017. The task force is charged with coordinating all military cer... (Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

U.S. Army Maj. Brian Welch, an Eolia, Mo. native, joined the Joint Task Force - National Capital Region (JTF-NCR) in support of the 58th Presidential Inauguration, which will take place Jan. 20, 2017. The task force is charged with coordinating all military ceremonial support for the inaugural period. As a joint service committee, it includes members from all branches of the armed forces of the United States, including Reserve and National Guard components.

"It is an honor to participate in an once-in-a-lifetime event to honor the out-going and in-coming Commander and Chief," said Welch.

The U.S. Armed Forces have participated in the inauguration of the president of the United States since April 30, 1789, when members of the U.S. Army, local militia units and Revolutionary War veterans escorted George Washington to his first inauguration ceremony at Federal Hall in New York City. More than 220 years later, the participation of the armed forces continues to honor our commander in chief, recognize civilian control of the armed forces and celebrate democracy.

Participation by the armed forces traditionally includes musical units, marching bands, color guards, salute batteries and honor cordons. Soldiers, Marines, Sailors, Airmen and Coast Guardsmen also provide invaluable assistance to the Presidential Inaugural Committee and the Joint Congressional Committee on Inauguration Ceremonies.

The Secretary of Defense authorized 820 service members to coordinate DoD support in and around the nation's capital. On Inauguration Day, more than 5,000 service members will participate in the 58th Presidential Inauguration ceremonies and other events.

Just as military men and women show their commitment to this country while deployed around the world, participation of service members in this traditional event demonstrates our military's support to the nation's commander in chief.

For more information about military support to the 58th Presidential Inauguration or Maj. Brian Welch, please contact JTF-NCR Public Affairs Media Operations at 202-685-3161 or army.jtfncr.pao.inaugural@mail.mil