In this compelling clip from Scuttlebutt Episode 4, Jean Marciniak, Director of StateDefenseForce.com, and Major (GA – Retired) Beverly Shepard of the Georgia State Defense Force delve into the latest developments impacting State Defense Forces across the country. A key focus of the discussion is the recently revised National Guard directive, CNGBI 5500.01, which outlines how National Guard units should interact with State Defense Forces. Among the recent updates to the directive, one that has been the most controversial is that it advises Adjutant Generals, who command State Defense Forces and set their policies, to adopt bright red nametapes, rank insignia, and headgear for their State Defense Forces, replacing the current OCP camouflage elements in order to create a distinct visual separation from National Guard personnel.
Mr. Marciniak and Major Shepard explore the implications of this shift, emphasizing that while the directive serves as guidance, the ultimate authority lies with each state’s Adjutant General. They discuss how appealing to these Senior National Guard Generals—through well-reasoned policy papers issued by the State Guard Association of the United States and StateDefenseForce.com (also known as The State Guard & Defense Force Council), and bolstered by insights from academic experts and national security think tanks—can play a pivotal role in preserving the current uniform standard. They argue that these informed, credible recommendations can be instrumental in steering decision-makers away from a uniform transition that could compromise the cohesion, professionalism, and mission effectiveness of State Defense Forces nationwide.
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The Scuttlebutt Podcast are only available to our Patreon members – Corporal $5 Tier and above. We provide this to them as a thank you for keeping StateDefenseForce.com online and running. Thanks to their generous support, we’re able to cover essential expenses such as website hosting, domain fees, and compensating our podcast hosts and authors who create in-depth historical features. Their funding also helps power our new lobbying initiative, which plays a critical role in advancing the State Defense Force mission across the nation.
About Scuttlebutt:
Scuttlebutt is hosted by Jean Marciniak, one of the directors of StateDefenseForce.com, also known as The State Guard & Defense Force Council. Jean oversees the daily operations of the organization, spearheading legislative efforts, recruitment initiatives, and managing a team of authors who contribute timely and impactful editorial content. He is also responsible for the operation of The State Defense Force Online Store — SDFOnlineStore.com — which provides quality merchandise for State Defense Force members and supporters across the country. Jean brings strategic insight and a deep commitment to strengthening and promoting State Defense Forces nationwide.
Joining him is co-host Major Beverly Shepard (GA – Retired), one of the most accomplished Public Affairs Officers in the State Defense Force community. As the architect of the Georgia State Defense Force’s Public Affairs Department, she transformed it into a premier operation that now rivals full-time active military public affairs teams. Her exceptional leadership and communication skills have significantly elevated the public image of the Georgia State Defense Force, directly contributing to increased recruitment and awareness. With her extensive knowledge and experience, Major Shepard brings valuable perspective and professionalism to every episode, and we are honored to have her as a core member of the Scuttlebutt team.
