The National Guard, including members from Ohio, are on 24-hour guard of the US Capitol after the violence that took place that took place there on Jan. 6; and five people died, including a Capitol police officer.

With the upcoming inauguration of President-elect Joe Biden on Jan. 20, the National Guard is on guard, protecting the Capitol, and when off-duty, the troops are sleeping in the hallowed halls of what many consider to be the symbol of democracy. 

New fencing and other security measures are in place ahead of the transition of power, and area US Rep. Tim Ryan is asking for help for the Guardmembers, who are helping to protect against violence in DC for the next several days.

Ryan joined many other representatives Thursday, Jan. 14, requesting access to showers and sleeping accommodations for National Guardmembers during their time in-between shifts while guarding the Capitol.

Lawmakers also requested that House dining services provide free meals to the Guard protecting the Capitol building.

"We are grateful for the Guardmembers, law enforcement, and public safety personnel that are working tirelessly to keep us safe. While the Capitol complex buildings are meant for conducting the People's business and do not provide many comforts for sleeping, eating, and resting, any accommodations we can make to ease their stay is the least we can do to show our gratitude," wrote the lawmakers.

"While it is a sad state of affairs that we require such protection to defend our Capitol, we are deeply grateful for their service to our nation. They are not only defenders of our democracy but are welcomed guests during this time," they continued.

National Guardmembers will be stationed around the Capitol complex through Inauguration Day. 

The National Guard currently has 7,253 personnel on duty across the country in support of civil disturbance operations and the Inauguration. 6,918 are on duty in the District of Columbia.