The Georgia State Defense Force (GSDF) recently celebrated the graduation of a new class of soldiers from their Initial Entry Training (IET – Basic Training). The months-long program is designed to transform civilians into soldiers, equipping them with the essential skills needed to serve in the GSDF. During the rigorous training, recruits are taught key vital skills, including the Chain of Command, Physical Training, Drill & Ceremony, land navigation, Search & Rescue, and emergency medical techniques such as CPR, applying bandages, using tourniquets, etc. The training closely mirrors the basic training conditions of the United States Military, ensuring that the new soldiers are well-prepared for their future roles.
IET is particularly crucial for Non-Prior Service members, as it introduces them to the military structure and discipline. Upon completing the program, these new soldiers will return to their home units across Georgia, where they will continue their training and stand ready to respond when called upon. The GSDF places great emphasis on Basic Soldiering Skills, and this comprehensive training ensures that every soldier is fully capable of supporting both military and emergency management missions within the state.
The latest group of GSDF soldiers graduated on August 18, 2024, in Macon, Georgia. The graduates were trained in a variety of military and emergency management skills. Among the newly graduated soldiers, Pvt. Amber Smith earned the Leadership Honor Graduate award, recognizing her outstanding leadership qualities during training. Pvt. Todd Child also distinguished himself by earning the Academic Achievement Award, showcasing his exceptional understanding of the training material. As these soldiers return to their units, they join a long line of GSDF personnel dedicated to serving their communities.
This recent graduation follows a tradition of excellence within the GSDF, and with ongoing recruitment efforts, the force is set to grow even stronger. The 4th Battalion, in particular, continues to build on its history of service, with both seasoned soldiers and new recruits standing ready to serve. The GSDF remains committed to its mission, with its soldiers well-prepared to meet the challenges ahead.
The newest GSDF Soldiers graduated form their Initial Entry Training (IET) on 18 August in Macon Georgia. Soldiers were trained in many different military and emergency management skills.
The Georgia State Defense Force is a military branch of the Georgia Department of Defense.
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The GSDF is a component of the Georgia Department of Defense, along with the Georgia Air National Guard and Georgia Army National Guard.
Georgia State Defense Force (GSDF) Pvt. Amber Smith earns the Leadership Honor Graduate award. and Pvt. Todd Child earns the Academic Achievement Award, following a GSDF Initial Entry Training class graduation, Macon, Ga., Aug. 18, 2024.
Here are the folks from the 4th Battalion before we launched our big recruitment campaign for the Georgia State Defense Force. Some are no longer with us as they have retired or moved on. They are missed. Keep an eye out for the next photo – there will be plenty more faces joining us soon!
Sources: Georgia State Defense Force 4th Brigade – Georgia State Defense Force
