Submitted by Jean Gwon
This year, four Adjutant General Officers were selected to serve as White House Social Aides, providing coverage during the 60th Inauguration Ceremonies spread across the Washington D.C. area as protocol officers. All four selected were familiar with protocol duties they acquired while serving in various Adjutant General's Corps positions, making it easy for them to step into the role and assist during the Inauguration. The group had multiple Change of Command Ceremonies, Unit Balls, and AGCRA functions under their belts, which made the White House Social Aide planning and events very relatable.
The duties of an Adjutant General's Corps Officer give members unique knowledge, skills, and behaviors that prove invaluable as a White House Social Aide. Adjutant General's Corps leaders working as Band Members from The United States Army Band (TUSAB) also provide musical support for the leadership of the United States for various executive ceremonies for Presidential-level events. TUSAB’s support for former President Carter's Funeral at the Washington National Cathedral was the most notable. Adjutant General Officers and NCOs from TUSAB provided the necessary continuity and professionalism vital to the overall mission success at the State Funeral in January 2025.
The position of a White House Social Aide is a unique opportunity that only exists for officers currently assigned to the National Capital Region and is open to active-duty officers across all Army branches.
White House Military Social Aides perform a vital role for White House events, assisting the President’s Social Secretary and representing the President and First Lady. Application to become a White House Social Aide is voluntary but the selection process is rigorous and highly sought-after across all five services. Once selected, social aides work at the White House managing guests, escorting dignitaries and providing companionship to important people during prestigious events. They also work operations and carry out duties behind the scenes to ensure that all events run smoothly and effectively. While working as a Social Aide, officers have the opportunity to pull back the curtain and see the important duties and missions that make each and every event special.
Each of the five services are represented as social aides in the program and each service has a program manager charged with providing command and control and information flow of White House events within their own service.
If you have any questions, are interested in the program, or want general information, please reach out to your Career Manager or contact your local AGCRA, who can provide you the point of contact to apply.