state defense forces

= State Defense Forces = The State Defense Forces are the official state military reserve to the United States National Guard. They are authorized, but not funded, by the federal government to act as a replacement for the National Guard in case it should be federalized. The federal government officially recognized State Defense Forces under 32 USC Sec 109 and provided that State Defense Forces "may not be called, ordered, or drafted into the armed forces", thus preserving their independence from the National Guard.

Origins

Throughout most of its history until the early 1900s, the United States maintained only a minimal army and relied on state militias to supply the majority of its troops. In 1903, the National Guard was formed to augment the militia and regular army with a federally controlled reserve force. During World War II, much of the National Guard was deployed on federal duty. Many states continued to organize distinct state militias (some building on ones that never ceased to exist) to defend their own territories and shorelines.

Organization

Most states organize their State Defense Force in parallel to their National Guard force, having it report to the governor through the Adjutant General. The Force is not funded by the federal government in any way. In most states, members act on a completely volunteer basis, have to purchase any uniforms after the first, and supply their own arms (if it's an armed force at all).

Future

Efforts are being made in Congress to better integrate the State Defense Forces into a larger Homeland Security strategy. This might involve enabling the Secretary of Defense to coordinate with, loan equipment to, and provide training for the State Defense Forces.

States With Defense Forces