How the Washington Guard has trained, served, and strengthened Franklin County since 2021.

The Washington Guard exists to equip everyday Americans with the skills, mindset, and community needed to protect themselves, their families, and the people around them. Since our founding, that mission has translated into thousands of training engagements, hundreds of lives reached, and a growing network of prepared citizens right here in Washington, MO.

Our Impact at a Glance

2021–2025 by the Numbers

• 3,700+ total training engagements delivered
• 500+ individuals trained across our community
• 1,000+ annual training touchpoints at peak activity
• Consistent monthly training maintained since April 2021
• Weekly skill development programs established and sustained
• 330 attendees at our flagship community banquet

These aren't just numbers — they represent neighbors, parents, veterans, and first-time shooters who left more capable than when they arrived.

Voices That Have Stood With the Washington Guard

Medal of Honor Recipients. Combat Veterans. National Voices. Local Leaders.

The Washington Guard doesn't just train citizens — it convenes them around voices that carry real weight. Our annual Patriot's Banquet and monthly training events have featured some of the most decorated, recognized, and respected figures in military service, media, and civic leadership.

These are the men who have stood at our podium:

Colonel Donald "Doc" Ballard — Medal of Honor Recipient One of America's most decorated living veterans, Colonel Ballard has honored the Washington Guard not once but twice as a featured Patriot's Banquet speaker.

Sergeant Sammy Davis — Medal of Honor Recipient The real-life inspiration behind the character of Forrest Gump. Sergeant Davis's story of courage under fire is one of the most remarkable in American military history.

Staff Sergeant (Ret.) Johnny "Joey" Jones — FOX News Contributor & Combat Veteran A Marine bomb technician who lost both legs in Afghanistan and went on to become one of the most recognized veteran voices in national media.

Sergeant John "Tig" Tiegen — Secret Soldier of Benghazi One of the CIA contractors who defied a stand-down order and fought to defend the U.S. compound in Benghazi on September 11, 2012. His story was told in the film 13 Hours.

Mark Schmitz — Founder, Freedom 13 Foundation (Washington, MO) A Gold Star father and local leader who turned unimaginable loss into a mission — founding Freedom 13 Foundation in memory of his son Jared, one of the thirteen service members killed in the Kabul airport attack.

Colonel Jack Jackson — USMC Veteran, Former Missouri State Representative, Boeing Head Test Pilot (Washington, MO) A decorated Marine, fighter jet test pilot, and former state representative who has served his country in the air, in combat, and in the halls of government. One of Washington's own.

Doug Giles — Founder, Warriors & Wildmen Author, columnist, and founder of the Warriors & Wildmen movement — a voice for unapologetic masculinity, faith, and the culture of capable, responsible men.

Marshall Teague — U.S. Navy Veteran, NATO Kickboxing Champion, Actor A veteran whose career spans more than 130 film and television roles — including Road House and The Rock — and whose service record is as impressive as his résumé.

Mark McCloskey — Attorney & Second Amendment Advocate (St. Louis, MO) Featured speaker at Washington Guard monthly training musters. Known nationally for his vocal defense of Second Amendment rights and property protection.

The Programs Behind the Numbers

What We Actually Deliver

Every training engagement represents real instruction, real skills, and real preparation. Our programming spans four core areas:

Monthly Training Musters Hands-on readiness training combining firearms, self-defense, emergency preparedness, medical response, and real-world scenario work. Held the third Saturday of every month since 2021.

Weekly Small Circle Jujitsu Consistent, practical self-defense training available every week — designed to work for all ages, sizes, and experience levels.

Specialized Training & Events Scenario-based courses, tactical development, concealed carry training, medical certification, and skills-focused workshops held throughout the year.

Community Events & Outreach From the annual Patriot's Banquet to parade participation to volunteer programs, the Guard shows up beyond the range — strengthening awareness, connection, and shared values across Franklin County.

Why This Work Matters

Every Person Trained Is a Stronger Community Member

When someone completes a Washington Guard training program, the impact extends far beyond them. Every trained individual is:

• More capable of protecting themselves and their family in an emergency
• More aware of their surroundings and potential threats before they escalate
• Better equipped to respond — whether it's a medical emergency, a violent encounter, or a natural disaster
• Part of a growing network of capable, like-minded citizens across Washington, MO

Preparedness isn't paranoia. It's responsibility. And it's contagious — one trained person teaches, encourages, and protects the people around them.

Looking Ahead: 2026 and Beyond

Rebuilding With Intention

The reset is behind us. The work ahead is focused, strategic, and built for scale. In 2026 and beyond, the Washington Guard is committed to:

• Expanding structured training programs and nationally recognized certifications
• Growing membership with aligned, committed individuals who are in it for the long term
• Increasing community outreach and public awareness across Franklin County
• Delivering consistent, high-quality training experiences that meet a rising standard
• Strengthening partnerships with military, first responders, and community organizations

The goal isn't just more members — it's a stronger, more capable community with the Washington Guard at the center of it.

Support the Mission

Your Investment Goes Directly to Work

The Washington Guard is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Every dollar donated, every hour volunteered, and every sponsorship secured goes directly toward expanding our reach and deepening our impact.

Your support helps us:

• Expand training opportunities and course offerings
• Reach more individuals across Washington and Franklin County
• Strengthen community preparedness and resilience
• Build a network of capable citizens ready to act when it matters most

Together, we are building stronger individuals — and a stronger community.

Donate. Become a Member. Get Involved.