Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth honored two West Virginia National Guard members for their bravery during a shooting near the White House [1].
The ceremony recognizes the risks taken by military personnel stationed in the capital and underscores the volatility of security operations in the district.
Army Maj. Ryan Reynolds and Air Force Maj. Edwin Stanfield received the awards for their actions in November 2025 [2]. The two Guard members were assaulted during a shooting incident in Washington, D.C. [3]. The officers acted to subdue the gunman and protect other service members, reports said [4].
The honors were presented in early May 2026 [5]. While some initial reports regarding the condition of the officers varied, the ceremony confirmed their heroism in apprehending the attacker [6].
This incident occurred amid a broader security posture in the city. Nearly 2,000 National Guard troops have been ordered to carry weapons while on patrol in Washington, D.C. [7]. The presence of armed personnel is intended to maintain order, and provide a rapid response to threats near high-profile government installations.
The recognition of Reynolds and Stanfield highlights the specific dangers faced by the West Virginia National Guard during their deployment to the capital. Their ability to neutralize the threat prevented further casualties during the November attack [8].
“Hegseth honored the two Guard members for their heroism after they were assaulted in a shooting near the White House.”
The awarding of these medals reflects the heightened security state in Washington, D.C., where the deployment of thousands of armed National Guard troops has increased the likelihood of direct kinetic engagements between military personnel and civilians. By publicly honoring these officers, the Department of Defense is signaling a validation of the aggressive patrol posture and the necessity of armed readiness for Guard members stationed near the White House.
