Supporting the Commonwealth Behind the Scenes

أكتوبر 20، 2026

As a support agency, DGS plays a vital role in helping our partner agencies fulfill their missions, and the past two months have showcased that commitment in action.

On September 12, DGS supported the Memorial to Memorial bike ride hosted by the U.S. Air Force Cycling Team and the Air & Space Forces Association (AFA). The event promotes fitness, supports military recruiting, and raises funds for the AFA Wounded Airmen & Guardians Program. The 350-mile ride began at the Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, and ended at the Air Force Memorial in Arlington, Virginia. Later that day, DGS also supported the annual Commonwealth Public Safety Memorial Service, which honors Virginia’s public safety heroes. Unveiled in 2014, the memorial bears the names 1,006 fallen heroes. DGS is honored to take part in this meaningful yearly tribute.

On October 7, DGS participated in the Governor’s Unified Readiness Summit, joining stakeholders from more than 30 sectors – including law enforcement, fire and EMS, healthcare, critical infrastructure, and higher education – to strengthen statewide coordination and readiness for critical incidents.

That same day, DGS also supported the Virginia General Assembly with event and media logistics for the Special Commemorative Session in Williamsburg marking the 250th anniversary of the legislature’s first meeting following American independence. Held at the historic Capitol, the event honored Virginia’s foundational role in shaping representative government and reflected on how the General Assembly has evolved to represent all Virginians.

Photo: Andrea Gaines, Virginia Department of Elections; Jackie Lipford, DGS; Rusty Hamm, DGS; Taylor O'Sullivan, Virginia Department of Elections

Additionally, on October 8, DGS contributed to the Virginia Department of Elections’ November elections exercise, partnering with localities and federal and state agencies to evaluate Election Day scenarios and determine effective solutions.

Together, these efforts showcase the many ways DGS supports the Commonwealth—strengthening preparedness, honoring public service, and helping major statewide events run seamlessly.