Thinner attendance at WA National Guard training as state deals with funding clawback

A significant number of Washington Army National Guard members, around 5,000, did not attend a recent drill due to budgetary constraints linked to funding cuts from the Trump administration. This reduction in attendance was a strategic move to manage a financial shortfall, with typical drill weekends costing about $2. 5 million. Half of the soldiers received excused absences, while others participated only part-time. Joseph Siemandel, the state public affairs officer, confirmed that essential tasks were accomplished during the weekend drill.

The National Guard Bureau's decision to withdraw $3 million since February has exacerbated the budget issues, as noted by communications director Karina Shagren. She indicated that the anticipated federal funding to cover these losses has yet to materialize. Despite the funding challenges, officials remain confident in the National Guard's operational readiness to handle emergencies. This situation reflects broader issues related to military funding and resource allocation under the current administration.