WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Kathysue Todd (formally Perry), a native of Lexington, North Carolina, completed a high-profile assignment with the Joint Task Force-National Capital Region (JTF-NCR), supporting the 60th Presidential Inauguration on Jan. 20.
Todd has served in the U.S. Navy Reserve for 22 years, and this was her third time supporting the Presidential Inauguration.
Todd was one of more than 800 service members assigned to JTF-NCR, a joint service command charged with executing all military ceremonial support for the inaugural period. The JTF-NCR is comprised of service members from all branches of the armed forces of the United States, including Reserve and National Guard components.
Todd, a 1985 graduate of Central Davidson High School, was assigned as an Inaugural Executive Driver for Distinguished Inaugural participants. Todd was responsible for the secure, timely and seamless transportation of DIPs to Inaugural events, using her background and previous inaugural experience to ensure the drivers were well-prepared for their missions.
“Driving for this historic event is more than a job – it’s a chance to reflect on the principles that unite us as Americans,” Todd said. "My father’s naval service and my experiences in the naval community have always driven my passion for leadership and patriotism.”
When Todd is not driving around VIPs, Todd serves as a master-at-arms (MA), similar to a law enforcement officer in the civilian community. One of Todd's most memorable experiences as an MA includes an assignment as part of a security detail for a high-ranking government official. Aside from her regular duties, Todd also performs funeral honors for the fallen in the Tampa/Fort Myers, Florida, area.
"Performing funeral honors is my way and the Nation’s way of showing deep gratitude and paying final tribute with respect to those who have served our country," Todd said.
JTF-NCR is the joint service command charged with planning, coordinating and providing U.S. military support to presidential inaugurations. During the Inauguration, approximately 5,000 service members from every branch, including active and reserve components, provided essential ceremonial and operational support for the 60th Presidential Inauguration.
Since 1789 when a military escort and full ceremonial procession including a military contingent of 500 members of the Army, local militia and Revolutionary War veterans escorted the newly elected president to his swearing-in, military support has played a traditional role in presidential Inaugurations.
“Patriotism has always been the core of my life, from my family’s roots to my own dedication to public service,” Todd added. "Being part of the 60th Presidential Inauguration as an executive driver was both a privilege and a reminder of my values: service, unity and love for our nation. ‘Follow your dreams – set your mind to do it, and you can do it,’ is a quote from Todd’s mother that has resonated with her throughout life.
Todd is excited to continue serving in the U.S. Navy. When asked what is next on her list, Todd looks forward to spending more time with family because she dedicated so much of her life to the Navy and mentions she has lots of time to make up with her loved ones.