Oklahoma Guardsman supporting presidential inauguration for third time

OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) — An Oklahoma National Guardsman is celebrating another historic milestone in his career as he and 99 Guardsmen are in Washington, D.C., to support the 60th Presidential Inauguration.

The Oklahoma soldiers will be in the nation's capital for 10 days, providing support with safety, securities, and other duties during the transition of power. Sgt. 1st Class Joseph English will be supporting the inauguration for a third time.

"I consider it an honor to be able to do this," English said in an interview provided by the Oklahoma National Guard. "This is one of the reasons I joined the Guard, is to be a citizen soldier, to serve the public; and I can't think of a better way to do it than, you know, being a part of what our constitutional republic is about."

Oklahoma National Guard leaders say President-Elect Donald Trump's inauguration could set record numbers, and every one of the more than 8,000 additional soldiers and airmen expected from 40 states will be needed in the coming day.

News 4 reached out to English's family for reaction on the big day. His wife, Shawna, told News 4 that her husband loves his country and loves serving in any capacity needed. She says assignments like the inauguration are such a special thing for them all to witness through him firsthand and that their oldest son wants to follow in his footsteps. She also says Joseph is taking it seriously.

"This assignment has always been one of the most self-rewarding for him," said Shawna English.

Both Shawna and Joseph's brother, Robert English, who News 4 spoke with as well on Thursday, say it's hard to do just to the amount of training Joseph put in to be able to attend multiple inauguration days. They say it's a feat worth being acknowledged.

"For him to be back there the third time, they must have a very high trust in him," said Robert English. "It is probably the biggest honor that, you know, one would attain is going out and being able to be a part of something of this magnitude."

The big difference for Joseph's third inauguration he's supporting is that it follows two credible assassination attempts made against the incoming president's life.

The Associated Press reports law enforcement is preparing for potential demonstrations but is not anticipating any major problems. Federal law enforcement will operate in a heightened threat environment following the New Year's attack in New Orleans.

"I'm definitely worried about him," said Robert English. "Obviously, there's always a threat, but this is a clear; you know, they've already being making attempts, you know, on the man's life. So he's there to do his job and protect him."

Shawna says she's trying not to hyperfixate on that detail, is trusting her husband's training, and awaiting his return home.

"We stay focused on the return," said Shawna English. "Come home; we love you, and we are so proud of all of your accomplishments."

Robert echoed the same sentiment to his brother.

"I can't express to you how much I love you, and I just, I'm very proud of you," said Robert English.

In addition to English, one of the other 99 guardsmen is also a News 4 photojournalist.