trash

For years, uneaten hot dogs and half-empty cans of tomato paste languishing in the fridge have charted a quick path to the trash in American kitchens.

In recent months they have provided medical assistance, picked up trash, spread mulch, painted fences, and helped elderly locals who fell off their bicycles, according to National Guard officials.

Troops have carried out a variety of tasks, from patrolling the National Mall and Metro stations to picking up trash, removing graffiti, spreading mulch and painting fencing.

Because here’s the secret: it’s rarely the décor you haul out once a year, the turkey-shaped anything, or the glittery garlands destined for a January trash bag.

Some acquired original artworks, often for free, from editors who might have otherwise trashed them.