WASHINGTON — The next presidential inauguration is just days away, and on Tuesday, WUSA9 got a behind-the-scenes look at the military honor guard and drill teams preparing for Jan. 20, 2025.
Shortly after sunrise, the teams were out practicing at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall in Arlington. These service members spend countless hours perfecting their movements, but it’s not just about precision — it’s about passion and pride.
"I sat behind a Gold Star mother at a funeral at Arlington Cemetery when I was a young lad," said Sgt. Nicholas Ames of the U.S. Space Force.
That moment stuck with him. It inspired Ames to join the military and later the Air Force Honor Guard, where he could help families honor their loved ones.
"I’ve laid to rest over 400 souls at Arlington National Cemetery," Ames said.
Now part of the Space Force, a branch created during President-elect Donald Trump’s first administration, Ames is preparing to make history. January will be the first time the Space Force takes part in a presidential inauguration.
"As we continue training, I will most likely be on the presidential escort marching past the Capitol and down the main city streets," he said.
That moment will come after weeks of intense preparation. On Tuesday, Ames was joined by more than three dozen other service members, all focused on perfecting every move.
"It's a lot of hard work, long days and a lot of pain, but we are a tight-knit group and get everything together," said Senior Airman Caleb Morgan of the U.S. Air Force.
"It’s nerve-wracking," added Lt. Stephan Acevedo of the U.S. Navy. "I’ve done dozens of these performances, and every time, you still get those butterflies."
Even with the nerves, there’s a sense of excitement and pride in what they’re doing. WUSA asked Sgt. Ames how he thinks it will feel walking down Pennsylvania Avenue.
"It’ll definitely be cold, so we’re preparing for that — lots of conditioning, long marches, and practicing precise movements," Ames said. "We want to look sharp so the American people can be proud when they see the debut of the United States Space Force."