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House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) on Friday appointed Gen. William J. Walker to serve as the next House sergeant-at-arms, making him the first African American to hold the position.
Why it matters: Paul D. Irving, the former sergeant-at-arms, resigned one day after the pro-Trump mob stormed the U.S. Capitol on Jan 6.
Details: Walker is the commanding general of the D.C. National Guard, where he is responsible for the strategic leadership and training of Army and Air Force guard.
- He has 39 years of decorated military experience.
- He also served as a special agent with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration for 30 years.
- As chair of the National Guard Bureau’s Joint Diversity Executive Council, Walker recommends best practices to diversify the National Guard's senior ranks.
What they're saying: “Throughout his long, dedicated career in public service, Gen. William Walker has proven to be a leader of great integrity and experience who will bring his steady and patriotic leadership to this vital role,” Pelosi said in a statement.
- “His historic appointment as the first Black American to serve as Sergeant-at-Arms is an important step forward for this institution and our nation," Pelosi said.
Flashback: Timothy P. Blodgett has been serving as the acting sergeant-at-arms since Jan. 11.