Colorado Veterans Join Capitol Protest as Local Guard Units Face Potential Deployment
Several Colorado veterans were among approximately 60 protesters arrested outside the U.S. Capitol on Friday during demonstrations against military deployments in American cities, highlighting growing concerns among local service members about domestic military operations.
The protest, which holds particular significance for Colorado's substantial military community, comes as National Guard units across the country, including those stationed at Fort Carson and Buckley Space Force Base, face potential domestic deployment orders similar to those recently issued in Los Angeles.
According to Capitol Police statements, the situation escalated when protesters crossed police lines near the Capitol Rotunda Steps, resulting in multiple arrests. The demonstration was organized by Veterans for Peace, an organization with active chapters in Colorado Springs and Denver.
"We are the actual people who put uniforms on because we believe in the freedoms this country is supposed to be about and we will not be intimidated into silence," said Michael T. McPhearson, director of Veterans For Peace.
For Colorado's military community, which includes:
- Five major military installations in Colorado Springs
- Over 40,000 active duty service members
- Thousands of military families across the Front Range
- A large veteran population throughout the state
The protest raises important questions about the role of military forces in domestic operations. Local military families express growing concern about potential deployments that could affect Colorado National Guard members, particularly as the administration announces plans for a major Army anniversary parade involving 6,600 soldiers, 150 vehicles, and over 50 aircraft.
The demonstration coincides with preparations for tomorrow's Army 250th anniversary parade in Washington D.C., which marks the first major military parade in the capital in more than three decades. For Colorado's military community, the event highlights ongoing debates about military spending priorities versus funding for veteran services and community needs.
This story continues to develop as Colorado military families and veteran organizations monitor the situation and its potential implications for local service members and Guard units.
This article contains AI-generated content and reflects opinion only. Readers are encouraged to verify all information independently before drawing conclusions or making decisions.
