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The request for help some local law enforcement officers recently received wasn't the usual assignment.

The location: Washington.

The time: Inauguration Day.

The mission: Protect the president (and provide general security).

The invitation turned out to be an attractive one, as dozens of officers jumped at the chance to be a part of the massive security detail for Tuesday's inauguration of President-elect Barack Obama.

Fifty Greensboro Police Department officers will help provide security for the inaugural parade as it winds around the Capitol.

The department, which participated in President Bush's inauguration four years ago, was invited back this year, said Trent Walker, a Greensboro officer who is coordinating planning for the trip.

"It's great to have an opportunity to be a part of it," he said.

When the department asked for volunteers, plenty stepped forward.

"We had quite a few more than 50," Walker said.

The officers will receive overtime pay, but that's not the main reason for the interest, he said.

"They know they're going to be part of history," he said. "So, they're very excited."

The federal government will reimburse the city for its expenses during the event, Walker said.

The officers will leave Sunday and return Wednesday.

Although it might be a break from their typical routine, it's not a vacation, Walker said.

On Inauguration Day, the officers will have to be on the parade route before sunrise, he said, and will remain there throughout the day.

"They know they're not going up there for a leisure trip," he said.

The trip will not have a significant impact on day-to-day policing in Greensboro, he said.

The department has 600 officers, and many of those going are detectives or officers not on regular patrol duty.

Security obviously is a crucial part of the inauguration events.

According to the Secret Service, Washington will have road closings and vehicle-restricted zones next week, and those attending the inauguration and parade must pass through security screenings.

Once in Washington, the Greensboro officers will be part of a massive security force.

Besides Secret Service and D.C. police, 4,000 officers from across the country will be part of the security, according to the Washington police department.

Nearly 100 agencies will be represented in the city during the inauguration, according to the department.

Walker said Greensboro's performance at the last inauguration played a role in being selected again.

"We did a good job and got invited back," he said.

Contact Jason Hardin at 373-7021 or at jason.hardin@news-record.com