National Guard Members Discuss Federal Deployments in Encrypted Chat
Members of the Ohio National Guard have engaged in discussions within an encrypted group chat regarding federal deployments across the United States. These deployments, initiated by the Trump administration, have involved sending troops to several cities, including Los Angeles, Washington D.C., Chicago, Portland, Memphis, and locations in Louisiana and Missouri.
The administration has stated that these deployments aim to address violent crime and protect federal immigration facilities. Some Ohio Guard members, identified as J, C, and A, expressed questions about their potential roles in these operations during interviews conducted on condition of anonymity due to unauthorized media engagement policies.
Scope of Deployments and Member Concerns
Trump administration deployments have included troops sent to Los Angeles during anti-ICE protests and approximately 2,300 Guard troops in Washington D.C. Plans for deployments in additional cities have been subject to legal challenges.
J, an Ohio National Guard member, reported participating in humanitarian missions previously. However, the nature of more recent assignments, such as perceived duties in Washington D.C., has prompted questions among some Guard members. The encrypted chat, established by Ohio National Guard members, became more active in response to executive orders impacting the military and has increasingly focused on the rhetoric surrounding the National Guard and federal deployments.
Support for Service Members and Official Responses
About Face, a nonpartisan nonprofit supporting service members and post-9/11 veterans, has observed increased outreach from active military personnel questioning deployments. The organization has launched an information campaign to provide resources for Guard members with doubts about their assignments.
In response to inquiries, Pentagon Press Secretary Kingsley Wilson stated that National Guard members are committed to defending the nation and serving the American people, expressing confidence in their ability to execute orders. White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson affirmed President Trump's use of lawful authority to protect federal assets and personnel, attributing the need for deployments to the perceived failure of Democratic leaders to address violent attacks on law enforcement.
Ohio Guard Participation and Future Considerations
Ohio's Republican Governor, Mike DeWine, authorized the deployment of approximately 150 Ohio Guard members to Washington D.C. Members of the specific unit, including J, C, and A, did not volunteer for these orders, citing a lack of clarity regarding the specific duties and operational details. They noted that past deployment orders typically provided more comprehensive information regarding objectives.
The three Guard members, who joined for reasons such as college tuition, life direction, and benefits, are considering the continuation of their service. C indicated that previous missions, though not always personally agreed with, were performed as part of her service. They also reported experiencing anti-Guard sentiment within their civilian communities. Their discussions include establishing personal boundaries concerning participation in specific operations. Concerns were also raised about the public perception of military personnel patrolling U.S. streets.
Constitutional Oath and Immigration Enforcement
The Trump administration has publicly discussed utilizing the National Guard for mass deportations and immigration enforcement. The interviewed Ohio Guard members indicated they would not participate in such actions, citing potential legal implications and personal ethical considerations. They emphasized that their oath is to the U.S. Constitution.