On January 25, 2024, a momentous occasion unfolded at the Georgia Capitol in Atlanta as the Georgia State Defense Force (GSDF) joined the Georgia National Guard in celebrating National Guard Day. Spearheaded by Georgia State Senator Kay Kirkpatrick, who also serves as a captain in the GSDF, the event welcomed the presence of distinguished military and state officials. Among them were Georgia Adjutant General Maj. Gen. Thomas M. Carden Jr., Deputy Adjutant General Joe Ferrero, and leaders from both the Georgia Air National Guard and Georgia Army National Guard. Together with Guardsmen, GSDF Chief of Staff, and state legislators, they marked this significant day, underscoring the unity and strength of Georgia’s military forces. Captain Kirkpatrick, who is a physician in the GSDF 76th Support Brigade, 132 Medical Battalion, played a pivotal role in the ceremony, highlighting the integral role of the GSDF within the Georgia Department of Defense, which encompasses the Georgia Air National Guard and Georgia Army National Guard as its other two components.
National Guard Day serves not only as a celebration of the valor and dedication of the National Guardsmen but also as a reminder of the sacrifices they make ensuring the safety and security of the country. We thank and honor every Soldier and Airmen who serve in The National Guard, through their service, our way of life and freedom is secure.
The Georgia State Defense Force & Georgia National Guard partnership is exemplified through numerous joint training exercises and missions, signifying their mutual commitment to safeguarding the state and its citizens. The GSDF, in particular, focuses on supporting, assisting, and augmenting the National Guard, a testament to their indispensable contribution to Georgia’s security and well-being. This close relationship ensures that both forces are better prepared and equipped to respond to any challenges that may arise, demonstrating their unwavering dedication to the safety and security of Georgia.
Georgia State Sen. Kay Kirkpatrick (at lectern), a captain in the Georgia State Defense Force (GSDF), welcomed the Georgia National Guard during National Guard Day at the Capitol, Atlanta, Ga., Jan. 25, 2024.Georgia Adjutant General Maj. Gen. Thomas M. Carden Jr. (left), Georgia Deputy Adjutant General Joe Ferrero (right), leaders from the Georgia Air National Guard and Georgia Army National Guard, Guardsmen, and the GSDF Chief of Staff joined state legislators in attending the event.The GSDF is one of three components of the Georgia Department of Defense, along with the Georgia Air National Guard and Georgia Army National Guard.Capt. Kirkpatrick, a physician, serves in the GSDF 76th Support Brigade, 132 Medical Battalion.(Photo courtesy of the Georgia Senate Press Office)
Georgia celebrated National Guard Day at the Capitol, Atlanta, Ga., Jan. 25, 2024.This photo is traditionally taken in honor of the event. Shown: General of Georgia Maj. Gen. Thomas M. Carden Jr., Georgia Deputy Adjutant General Joe Ferrero, Georgia National Guard leadership, and Guardsmen.Georgia State Defense Force (GSDF) Chief of Staff Col. Dirk Daube joined this photo. Georgia Sen. Kay Kirkpatrick, also a captain in the GSDF, welcomed the Georgia Guard in chambers.The Georgia Air National Guard, Georgia Army National Guard, and the GSDF comprise the Georgia Department of Defense.(Photo courtesy of the Georgia House of Representatives)
Source: Georgia State Defense Force
