AMERICA’S Secret Service is preparing to put Washington on lockdown for the inauguration of president-elect Donald trump in January, with an unprecedented security operation in the US capital.
By TOM BATCHELOR
EXPRESS
REX – Planning by the US Military’s Joint Task Force
Photos released of the planning meeting reveal how FBI agents are using models of the White House and Capitol and a oversized floor map to plot escape routes and road blockades.
Plans for the 58th presidential inauguration are being finalised with just 34 days until the New York property tycoon takes office.
In one picture, security agents pore over a detailed itinerary of the day.
Another shows how a ‘reviewing stand’ will be placed on Pennsylvania Avenue directly opposite the White House.
DC National Guard Major Michael Odle: “There are estimates of what the crowd is going to look like this year — we’re saying somewhere around 800,000.
“Expect long lines at security lines for all ticket holders.”
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Washington is expected to grind to a standstill on January 20 – a Friday – when thousands of people pack into the capital to watch Mr Trump get sworn in.
Around 15,000 uniformed members of the armed forces will be deployed in a largely ceremonial role abut could be called upon in an emergency.
According to US military blog Stars and Stripes, 5,000 troops will serve ceremonial duties, while 2,000 on-duty troops will serve in support roles and 8,000 National Guardsmen will bolster security.
REX – An oversized floor map and small models of the White House
REX – They prepare to walk though a planning session with the various government and police agencies
Major Odle added: “As in previous inaugurations, there are going to be certain bridge closures and road closures.
“The most important thing to note is within the parade area, Downtown DC, there will be no vehicular traffic.”
Mr Trump, along with Vice President-elect Mike Pence, will be sworn in around midday.
The event will be ticketed and photo ID will be required in what is expected to be the most tightly-run inauguration ever.
Jackie Evancho, a 16-year-old classical singer, will perform the national anthem at Mr Trump’s inauguration.
Later that evening the new president will appear at the inaugural ball.
But the security services will also have to contend with protesters who are appealing in the courts to have two sites to demonstrate.
At President Obama’s inauguration, undercover officers mingled with the crowds and snipers were placed on rooftops.