D.C. National Guard Commanding General Leland D. Blanchard II Promoted to Major General During Ceremony at D.C. Armory

About this video

U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Leland D. Blanchard II, Commanding General of the District of Columbia National Guard, was promoted to the rank of Major General during a ceremony at the D.C. Armory in Washington, D.C., Oct. 26, 2026. The ceremony was officiated by the Honorable Mike Obadal, 36th Under Secretary of the Army, while Lt. Gen. Jonathan Stubbs, Director of the Army National Guard, administered the Oath of Office, symbolizing Blanchard’s renewed commitment to uphold and defend the U.S. Constitution and assume the increased responsibilities of his new rank. Heads of partner agencies and senior military leaders from across the Department of War were also in attendance, reflecting the strength of interagency relationships and the shared commitment to national security, military readiness and public service.

As Commanding General, Blanchard oversees the strategic readiness, training and operational capabilities of approximately 2,600 Soldiers and Airmen of the D.C. National Guard. His leadership also extends to Joint Task Force-District of Columbia, which supports the DC Safe and Beautiful mission through coordinated operations with federal and local law enforcement partners to strengthen public safety and enhance security across the nation's capital. His promotion marks a significant milestone in military leadership, reinforcing continuity of command, operational readiness and the importance of interagency partnerships in responding to complex security challenges, protecting communities and supporting missions at home and abroad. (U.S. Army National Guard video by Master Sgt. Arthur M. Wright)