Black Law Enforcement Officers, Pelosi Praise House’s First Black Sergeant-at-Arms

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The National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE) is saluting D.C. National Guard Maj. Gen. William J. Walker, who will serve as the 38th sergeant-at-arms for the House and the first-ever Black to hold the position.

“NOBLE congratulates one of its own, life member General William J. Walker,” Lynda R. Williams, president of NOBLE, said in a statement. “We wish him great success and godspeed in his role as the Sergeant-at-Arms for the U.S. House of Representatives.”

The role of sergeant-at-arms is foundational to the functioning of Congress, said House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif).

Since the earliest days of the founding, the sergeant-at-arms has the essential responsibility of securing the House and ensuring that it can continue to perform its constitutional duty of serving the American people and advancing democracy.

“Throughout his long, dedicated career in public service, General 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. “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.”

Walker has 39 years of decorated military experience, including as current Commanding General of D.C. National Guard. For more than 30 years, he simultaneously served as a National Guardsmen and special agent of the Drug Enforcement Administration.

He earned a promotion to the Senior Executive Service rank in 2003 and was appointed a U.S. Intelligence Community Senior Intelligence Officer in 2009.

Walker also served as vice chair of the board of directors of the Young Marines, a public service organization for boys and girls that encourages its 10,000 members into becoming responsible citizens who enjoy a drug-free lifestyle.

“His experience will be an important asset to the House, particularly in light of the January 6 insurrection,” Pelosi said. “It is essential that we work to strengthen our institution and keep our Capitol community, and all who visit, safe.”