We are excited to announce a new featured article. This article explores the evolution and enduring importance of State Defense Forces (SDFs) within U.S. state military structures. It highlights their pivotal roles during major conflicts, the impact of federal policies on their development, and their crucial contributions in modern emergency responses, including the COVID-19 pandemic.
The article is developed by the prestigious author Professor Barry M. Stentiford. Professor Stentiford is a distinguished academic and military professional, currently serving as the Director of the Advanced Strategic Leadership Studies Program at the US Army’s School of Advanced Military Studies School of Advanced Military Studies. With a Ph.D. in History from The University of Alabama and a rich background in strategic studies, including degrees from the U.S. Army War College and other prestigious institutions, Stentiford has dedicated his career to the study and teaching of military history and strategy. His professional experience spans over a decade at a civilian university before joining the faculty at the School of Advanced Military Studies in 2009, where he has significantly contributed to courses on operational art, strategic leadership, and the strategic context of operational art. As an Army Reserve Officer, Stentiford has held several key positions, including Command Historian and battalion commander. His research interests focus on non-regular US military forces, Southeast Asia, and Disestablishment, with notable publications such as “The War on Terror in the Southern Philippines” and “The American Home Guard: The State Militia in the 20th Century,” reflecting his expertise in these areas.
State Defense Forces (SDFs) have been crucial components of state military forces in the U.S. for over a century, evolving alongside the National Guard. Originating during World War I when the National Guard was federalized, these forces played significant roles during both World Wars, including searching for escaped prisoners of war. It also reveals the legendary General who coined the term “State Guard” and advocated for older men to lead these forces, bringing maturity and professionalism to their ranks. The article highlights the key role of State Adjutants General (TAGs) in establishing these forces and discusses how the Department of Defense’s Total Force Policy during the Cold War altered the need for state military forces. Post-9/11, SDFs adapted to augment and complement National Guard capabilities, particularly in disaster response, with those that adjusted thriving while others faded. Their effectiveness was notably demonstrated during the COVID-19 pandemic, where SDFs like the Georgia State Defense Force played a crucial role in state emergency responses, showcasing their enduring value and adaptability.
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