SDF Lead Effort To Save Governors Guard

StateDefenseForce.com Fights to Preserve the Connecticut Governors Guard

The Veterans’ and Military Affairs Committee is holding a public hearing this Thursday, January 30th on House Bill 6440, a controversial proposal seeking to transition the Connecticut Governors Guards (State Defense Force) from a state military force to a private military entity.

StateDefenseForce.com has taken a strong stance against this legislation, emphasizing the vital role the Governors Guards play in Connecticut’s military and civic framework. As an advocate for state defense forces, the organization has implemented a multifaceted approach to oppose the bill.

Steps Taken by StateDefenseForce.com

  • Understanding the Proposal’s Intent
    StateDefenseForce.com reached out to the Veterans’ and Military Affairs Committee to understand the rationale behind the legislation. The committee indicated that the primary motivation is financial, aiming to consolidate resources and bolster the National Guard’s funding.
  • Submission of Written Testimony
    In preparation for the hearing, StateDefenseForce.com submitted a detailed written testimony to the committee, outlining our opposition. The testimony highlights the significant contributions of the Connecticut Governors Guards, including their ability to operate effectively on a small budget and their cost-saving benefits to the state. Read our testimony here:
Written-Testimony-Connecticut-House-Committee-Public
  • Outreach to the State Guard Association of the United States (SGAUS)
    StateDefenseForce.com has also reached out to the State Guard Association of the United States (SGAUS) to partner with them in opposing this legislation. This past weekend, we interviewed the new President of SGAUS, Lt. Colonel Barry Greene, on our Commanders Briefing podcast. During the interview, Lt. Colonel Greene emphasized SGAUS’s commitment to developing existing State Defense Forces, and we believe they will join us in opposing this legislation. For those interested, the podcast episode will be released this Friday, January 31st and will address many questions you have about SGAUS and their efforts.
  • Participation in the Public Hearing
    Jean Marciniak, One of The Directors of StateDefenseForce.com, will address the committee during the public hearing via Zoom. In his remarks, Mr. Marciniak plans to present a comprehensive argument against the legislation, detailing the Governors Guards’ accomplishments and the financial benefits they have provided to Connecticut. These include voluntary missions that have saved The Connecticut National Guard and the State of Connecticut millions of dollars over the years.

    A Legacy Worth Preserving

    The Connecticut Governors Guards have a storied history as a state military force, providing ceremonial, operational, and community support functions. Transitioning them to a private entity would not only disrupt their identity & mission but also reduce the states capability to respond to emergencies and natural disasters. StateDefenseForce.com remains committed to advocating for the preservation of this vital organization.

    Watch the Proceedings Live

    The public hearing will be streamed live on YouTube. To watch the proceedings, visit: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCirvHxKSiEy8yrE8CwtwoXQ/live at 1 PM EST.

    Stay tuned for updates on this important issue and the outcome of the hearing.

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