Board member Honorable William J. Walker is a distinguished public servant who has dedicated his career to upholding law, order, and security in the United States. Sworn in as the 38th Sergeant at Arms of the U.S. House of Representatives on April 26, 2021, he served with utmost integrity and professionalism during the 117th Congress. As an elected officer, the Sergeant at Arms is entrusted with the crucial responsibilities of being the chief law enforcement, security, and protocol officer of the House of Representatives.
Prior to his role as Sergeant at Arms, General Walker served as the 23rd Commanding General of the District of Columbia National Guard, appointed by the President.
In the aftermath of the shocking attack on the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021, General Walker demonstrated exceptional leadership by leading the National Guard’s civil support to the U.S. Capitol Police. His efforts in providing command and control for over 28,000 Guardsmen assigned for the 59th Presidential inauguration were exemplary. During the riots of 2020, which erupted following the tragic murder of George Floyd, General Walker also led National Guard support to the U.S. Secret Service at the White House, the U.S. Park Police, and the Metropolitan Police.
General William J. Walker’s remarkable career path and unwavering dedication to protecting the nation’s institutions and its people make him a highly respected figure in the field of law enforcement. His proven track record of leadership and steadfast commitment to public service is an inspiration, earning him the admiration and trust of his colleagues and the American people alike.
As the 38th Sergeant at Arms of the U.S. House of Representatives, General Walker’s tenure was marked by his unwavering dedication to upholding the highest standards of security and protocol, ensuring the smooth functioning of the House, and safeguarding democracy.
General Walker’s extensive educational background is a testament to his commitment to continuous learning and professional development. He is a graduate from the Joint and Combined Warfighting School, the Inter-American Defense College (IADC – Class 45), and the Command and General Staff College. He has also completed national security programs at prestigious institutions such as Harvard University, George Washington University, Syracuse University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, the National Defense University and the Naval Post Graduate School.
Walker earned Master’s degrees from the American University (international service), National Intelligence University (strategic intelligence), and Chicago State University (criminal justice), as well as a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago.