We’re thrilled to share recent updates and ongoing projects aimed at enhancing StateDefenseForce.com as the central resource for all things related to State Defense Forces. In our latest website improvements, we’ve made significant strides in bringing our visitors the most current and relevant information on State Defense Forces nationwide. Notable additions include the latest troop strength updates for the Virginia Defense Force in 2024, as well as the South Carolina State Guard’s 2024 figures. We’ve also expanded our Fiscal Budget database by including and updating multiple State Defense Forces for the calendar years of 2023, 2024, and 2025, providing insight into their operational funding. Additionally, we’ve introduced details on the new uniforms and alternate uniforms adopted by the Louisiana State Guard, reflecting the latest in their field and alternate attire.
In our commitment to keep our community informed and connected, we’re actively working to deepen our content. We’re in the process of reaching out to The South Carolina Military Department and Washington State Military Department to set up interviews with the Adjutant Generals of those states. These interviews will be featured on our Commanders Briefing podcast, providing a unique opportunity to gain insights directly from top leaders on their State Defense Forces’ operations and goals. If there’s a Commander you would like us to interview become a Sergeant Major or above tier, to suggest a State Defense Force or National Guard commander.
We’re also pursuing legislative support for the growth of State Defense Forces. In Arizona, we’ve initiated contact with the State Legislature to advocate for the reintroduction of House Concurrent Resolution 2059, the Arizona State Guard creation bill, for the upcoming 2024-2025 legislative session. Similarly, we’re collaborating with a Montana State Legislature member to encourage the reintroduction of the Oklahoma State Guard and Militia Revitalization Act of 2024, aiming to enhance support for the State Guard at the legislative level.
Among our in-progress projects is the development of a State Defense Force Calendar for 2025. This calendar will feature powerful images of State Defense Forces in action and highlight key historical dates, enabling members to commemorate their unit’s anniversary and reflect on significant events in the history of State Defense Forces.
In recruiting news, we’re working with the New York Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) on an initiative to refer applicants who don’t qualify for the U.S. Military to their State Defense Force. Although the previous MEPS commander involved in this initiative has been transferred, we’re currently working to establish a relationship with the new commander to advance this program.
We are in the planning stages of developing a comprehensive State Defense Force Magazine, set to be released as a yearly issue. This magazine will capture and highlight the top State Defense Force trainings, missions, and events throughout the year, serving as an essential publication for keeping our community informed on the most significant developments within State Defense Forces nationwide.
Additionally, we are in the process of transferring all Patreon-exclusive content from our website to the Patreon platform. Unfortunately, a faulty WordPress plugin has caused some users to experience access issues with certain content. To address this, we are moving all exclusive material to Patreon.com, where it can be easily accessed either on their website or through the mobile app. This transition will ensure seamless access to all Patreon-exclusive content for our supporters.
Lastly, we recently held an engaging Scuttlebutt podcast with Professor Barry M. Stentiford, Director of the Advanced Strategic Leadership Studies Program at the U.S. Army’s School of Advanced Military Studies. This episode, set to release for our Patreon members next week, delves into strategic perspectives on the role of State Defense Forces. Meanwhile, we’re already planning our next episode and look forward to sharing more dynamic content with our audience.
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to expand our efforts and resources for the State Defense Force community.