“I do solemnly swear that I will faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States and will to the best of my ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States.”
Presidential Oath every President takes at inauguration required by the Constitution of the United States
By Kitty Waldorf
In approximately a year and a half, America will celebrate its 260th anniversary as a nation. While all former presidential inaugurations have been grand spectacles that draw millions of eyes worldwide, the 2025 inauguration events revolving around President-Elect Donald J Trump’s second term are expected to attract even more crowds to the Nation’s Capital since this marks the beginning of another era for the US with the many debated implementations in the government and policies regarding both domestic and foreign affairs. Inarguably, the new White House administration will determine what kind of world we will all live in moving forward. Consequently, this will also impact the type of nation America will evolve into.
Regardless of who you might be supporting, inaugurations are national celebrations for Americans to create a sense of togetherness and pride. It is also an excellent opportunity to demonstrate American values, such as the peaceful power of transition to the rest of the world.
While the spotlight is on the incoming president, undeniably a brand of his own, many behind-the-scenes roles ensure the event runs smoothly.
Here are the top five exclusive opportunities to be a part of this historic event:
- US Secret Service Agent
The most important role belongs to the US Secret Service agents. Without their efforts, an event of this magnitude cannot be accomplished while smoothly securing everyone’s safety.
Primary Duties:
◗ Protect the president-elect, their family, and other dignitaries.
Requirements:
◗ Extensive law enforcement training, physical fitness, and the ability to work under pressure.
Work Setting:
◗ High-security environments, often involving travel.
Salary:
◗ Varies based on rank and experience but typically ranges from $50,000 to $150,000 per year. - Military Honor Guard Member
Military guard members play a crucial role in presidential inaugurations, primarily focused on security, ceremonial duties, and logistical support.
Primary Duties:
◗ Participate in ceremonial events, including parades and flag ceremonies.
Requirements:
◗ Active-duty military status, exceptional physical fitness, and military bearing.
Work Setting:
◗ Outdoor events, often in inclement weather.
Salary:
◗ Military pay and benefits, which vary by rank and time in service.
“I hope that the activities of this inauguration will make it a joyous and memorable time for each of you – as it should be, considering the excellent preparations made under the leadership of Chairman Bill Marriott and the Inaugural Committee and outlined in this program book. Most of all, I hope you will take home a new resolve to let the Spirit of ‘76 animate our American experience in the years ahead even more richly than it has before. We look forward to sharing with you in man’s greatest adventure of all-freedom.”
Richard Nixon, Spirit of ‘76 Inaugural Book, Introduction, January 1973 - Event Planner
In DC, everyone is aware of the big-events company called DC Events, which has a great team of event planners who are capable of running events of this magnitude. While I am not sure who is commissioned to take over the upcoming inaugural festivities, most probably it will be one of the biggest in the country.
Primary Duties:
◗ Coordinate logistics, manage vendors, and oversee the overall planning of inauguration events.
Requirements:
◗ Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and experience in event planning.
Work Setting:
◗ Offices, event venues, and remote work.
Salary:
◗ Varies based on experience and the specific role, but can range from $50,000 to $150,000 per year. - Media Production Crew Member
As social media platforms such as X encourage people to share more of their take about the world and create a new role such as the “citizen journalist,” it is expected that an ample amount of social media influencers will be broadcasting the festivities from their social media accounts. However, traditional media production crews will still be in action.
Primary Duties:
◗ Operate cameras, sound equipment, or editing software to capture and produce live broadcasts.
Requirements:
◗ Technical skills in media production, ability to work under tight deadlines.
Work Setting:
◗ Remote broadcast locations, production studios, and event venues.
Salary:
◗ Varies based on experience and role, but can range from $30,000 to $100,000 per year.
“Ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country.”
John Fitzgerald Kennedy,inaugural address,January 20,1961 - Volunteer
Since inauguration events take at least a week around the District, many volunteer opportunities are available if you are interested in helping out while becoming part of the history.
Primary Duties:
◗ Assist with crowd control, distribute information, or provide general support.
Requirements:
◗ Enthusiasm, willingness to help, and adherence to volunteer guidelines.
Work Setting:
◗ Various locations, including outdoor venues and indoor facilities.
Salary:
◗ Volunteer positions are unpaid, but often offer a sense of civic duty and the opportunity to be part of history.
In order to secure a position in any of these roles, it is essential to start planning and applying well in advance of the inauguration due to security checks. Networking with individuals in the relevant fields, such as government agencies, military organizations, and event planning companies, can also increase your chances of landing a coveted spot.
If you happen to be one of those lucky ones who have secured a task in the upcoming inauguration ceremonial events, congratulations! We will all be rooting for you while we will enjoy attending the events. ■
