At StateDefenseForce.com, we take great pride in recognizing the lifelong commitment and service of those who dedicate themselves to protecting and uplifting their communities through State Defense Forces. Today, we honor the exceptional service and recent retirement of Sergeant Major (VA) Alnita Baldon of the Virginia Defense Force (VDF), a soldier whose dedication spans nearly five decades of military and public service.
Sergeant Major Baldon began her military journey in 1976 when she joined the U.S. Army. After completing basic training at Fort McClellan, Alabama, she served in the 317th and 320th Regiments of the 80th Division (Training), stationed in Alexandria and Fort Belvoir, Virginia. Starting as a company clerk and later transitioning to a supply clerk, Baldon faced challenges that only fueled her determination. When a male drill instructor questioned her ability to complete drill sergeant school—a program her unit had yet to see a woman pass—she rose to the occasion, not only completing the course but going on to serve as an instructor at the Drill Sergeant Academy. She fondly recalls her time at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, as her favorite, particularly the pride of watching new recruits graduate under her mentorship.
After raising a family and stepping away from uniformed service, Baldon still felt the call to serve. In 2008, she saw a news report about the Virginia Defense Force and was immediately inspired. After visiting a VDF community support event and witnessing the professionalism and camaraderie of its soldiers, she joined that very day. “The VDF gave me the opportunity, at an older age, to go back into uniform, share my previous military experience, and learn and update my skills to serve the community and the Commonwealth of Virginia,” she said.
Her VDF career has been nothing short of distinguished. Baldon served as First Sergeant of Bravo Company, 11th Signal Battalion, 1st Regiment, and participated in several successful state active duty missions. She served as an instructor for Initial Entry Training (IET) and the Basic Noncommissioned Officer Course, helping shape the next generation of VDF leaders. She also sat on numerous promotion boards and brought her experience and leadership to countless recruits and fellow soldiers.
Balancing her civilian career as a full-time employee of Fairfax County Public Schools, Baldon also remains active with her last Army Reserve unit’s reunion committee. Off duty, she’s a proud grandmother of eight.
Reflecting on her time in the VDF, Baldon emphasized the importance of adaptability and the constant opportunity to learn. She offered inspiring advice to young women considering military service: “Don’t be afraid to try something new and different. If you fall down, get back up, stand-up straight, stand your ground, and try it again. This way you learn which road you need to take to accomplish whatever it is in life that you are going after.”
On June 7, 2025, at the S. Gardner Waller Depot in Richmond, Virginia, Sergeant Major Baldon was formally honored with the Virginia Defense Force Distinguished Service Medal. The award was presented by the Commanding General of the VDF, Brigadier General (VA) Richard Diddams, recognizing her long-standing leadership, tireless mentorship, and invaluable contributions to the Force.
We at StateDefenseForce.com sincerely thank and congratulate Sergeant Major Alnita Baldon for her extraordinary service to both the Commonwealth of Virginia and the United States. Her legacy will continue to inspire those who wear the uniform and those who support them.
Baldon recognized with VDF Distinguished Service Medal
Brig. Gen. (Va.) Richard Diddams, commander of the VDF, presents Sgt. Maj. (Va.) Alnita Baldon with the VDF Distinguished Service Medal June 7, 2025, at the S. Gardner Waller Depot in Richmond, Virginia, as she formally retired from VDF service.
Sources: Virginia Defense Force – Virginia Defense Force
