The US Joint Chiefs of Staff authored an unusual message to the military Tuesday condemning the January 6 attack on the US Capitol.

In their message, the Joint Chiefs noted that the actions inside the Capitol building were “inconsistent with the rule of law.” Additionally, they reminded service members that it is their duty to “support and defend the Constitution.” The Joint Chiefs also made it clear that President-elect Joe Biden would be inaugurated on January 20 and become the 46th president of the US.

The American people have trusted the Armed forces of the United States to protect them and our Constitution for almost 250 years. As we have done throughout our history, the U.S. military will obey lawful orders from civilian leadership, support civil authorities to protect lives and property, ensure public safety in accordance with the law, and remain fully committed to protecting and defending the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic. The violent riot in Washington, D.C on January 6, 2021 was a direct assault on the U.S. Congress, the Capitol building and our Constitutional process.

At least 20,000 National Guard members are expected to be deployed for Biden’s inauguration next week.