Photos: West Virginia National Guard members arrive in Washington, DC

WASHINGTON, D.C. (WBOY) — Members of the West Virginia National Guard arrived in Washington, D.C. on Tuesday on orders from Gov. Patrick Morrisey to support President Donald Trump’s “Making D.C. Safe and Beautiful Task Force.”

Members of the West Virginia National Guard arrived on Aug. 19 alongside members of South Carolina National Guard, according to the Defense Visual Information Distribution Service. Photos shared by the DVIDS show soldiers at an orientation brief upon their arrival in Washington.

According to the WVNG, approximately 300-400 personnel from West Virginia were expected to respond to assist with the task force. A press release from the WVNG from over the weekend said that in addition to those soldiers and airmen, the WVNG will also be “providing mission-essential equipment” and “specialized training.”

“This initiative aligns with our values of service and dedication to our communities,” West Virginia Adjutant General Maj. Gen. Jim Seward said in the press release. “We stand ready to support our partners in the National Capital Region and contribute to the collective effort of making our nation’s capital a clean and safe environment. The National Guard’s unique capabilities and preparedness make it an invaluable partner in this important undertaking.”

Over the weekend, roughly 800 D.C. National Guard troops had already deployed in the capital, a move that some people are calling a “vindictive” attempted takeover of Washington law enforcement and a “recipe for chaos.” Supporters believe it is an attempt to deter crime and make D.C. a better place to live.

With the new troops arriving from West Virginia, Ohio, Mississippi and South Carolina on Tuesday, more than 1,600 troops are now on the ground. Originally, the guardsmen and women were not ordered to carry weapons, but reports from The Hill Tuesday indicated that is expected to change.