Military District of Washington, CPOP

• Origins: The Military District of Washington (MDW) was established in 1862 during the American Civil War to protect the nation's capital from Confederate threats. • Current Role: MDW is responsible for the defense of Washington, D.C., and supports numerous high-profile ceremonial and security missions, including presidential inaugurations and state funerals. • CPOP Explained: The Command Protocol Office (CPOP) within MDW organizes and manages military ceremonial support for official events, ensuring flawless execution of protocol and ceremonies. • Arlington National Cemetery: MDW oversees Arlington National Cemetery, the nation’s most hallowed military burial ground, including the daily Tomb of the Unknown Soldier ceremonies. • Old Guard: The 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment, known as "The Old Guard," is the Army’s oldest active-duty infantry unit and operates under MDW, performing ceremonial duties and guarding national monuments. • Presidential Support: MDW units have supported every U.S. presidential inauguration since the district’s inception, providing security, parades, and ceremonial honors. • 9/11 Response: After the September 11th attacks, MDW played a crucial role in emergency response at the Pentagon and helped coordinate military support for security operations in the capital. • Joint Force Structure: MDW includes Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Coast Guard personnel, making it a uniquely joint command in support of national capital region operations. • Historic Parades: MDW has organized and led some of the largest military parades in U.S. history, including victory celebrations after World War II and Operation Desert Storm. • Heritage and Honors: The MDW Command Protocol Office preserves military heritage by meticulously planning ceremonies such as wreath-layings, foreign dignitary visits, and major national commemorations.