The Georgia State Defense Force (GSDF) recently celebrated the graduation of 15 new soldiers from Initial Entry Training (IET – Basic Training), marking a significant milestone in their military journey. These graduates have successfully completed the rigorous training designed to instill discipline, physical fitness, and operational readiness. Now, as fully integrated members of the GSDF, they will return to their home units, where they will continue honing their skills in vital areas such as medical response, search and rescue operations, and Point of Distribution (POD) management. Additionally, some will specialize in other missions sets such as emergency operations center (EOC) assistance, enhancing the GSDF’s ability to support the Georgia National Guard and state emergency management efforts during crises.
As one training cycle concludes, another begins, with 25 new recruits recently taking the oath of enlistment or commission to embark on their GSDF journey. So over the next several months, these recruits will undergo the same Initial Entry Training as the previous class. This program is a a comprehensive course designed to equip them with the fundamental skills necessary for military service. Modeled after the U.S. Army’s Basic Training, IET introduces recruits to military discipline, physical conditioning, drill and ceremony, military customs and courtesies, and essential first aid techniques. These elements foster a sense of order, teamwork, and resilience, ensuring that recruits are prepared to respond effectively in various operational scenarios.
Beyond foundational military training, recruits will be instructed in the use of military equipment, map reading, and land navigation—critical skills for ensuring operational effectiveness and safety in the field. They will also learn to navigate the military’s hierarchical structure by understanding the chain of command and military law, which reinforces discipline and accountability. Leadership, integrity, and teamwork remain core values throughout the training, shaping these recruits into reliable and mission-ready soldiers. Once this group completes their training, they will finish their journey from citizen to soldier.
The Georgia State Defense Force (GSDF) graduated 15 new Soldiers from Initial Entry Training, Ellenwood Readiness Center, Ellenwood Ga., March 3, 2025.
Among them were Spc. Robert Morton (left), recipient of the class Leadership Award, and Pvt. Brian Butts, recipient of the class Academic Award.
The GSDF is a component of the Georgia Department, along with the Georgia Air National Guard and Georgia Army National Guard.
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(Georgia State Defense Force photo by Pfc. Emma Foley)
The newest recruits of the Georgia State Defense Force (GSDF) begin Initial Entry Training, Macon, Ga., Feb. 21, 2025.
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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 photo by 1st Sgt. Drew Kearns)
Newest recruits for the Georgia State Defense Force begin their Basic Training in Macon Georgia on 21 February 2025.
The GSDF is a component of the Georgia Department of Defense, along with the Georgia AIr National Guard and Georgia Army National Guard.
(Story and photos by 1SG Drew Kearns)
Source: Georgia State Defense Force – 4th Brigade
