While portions of the Georgia State Defense Force (GSDF) were called to State Active Duty in response to Winter Storm Fern and the powerful Bomb Cyclone that followed, the organization continued to advance one of its most important missions: training and developing new Soldiers. As GSDF personnel supported emergency response and recovery efforts across the Southeast, another milestone was quietly reached behind the scenes, the successful completion of Initial Entry Training (IET – Basic Training) for a new class of recruits. Even amid severe weather operations, the GSDF remained committed to building and sustaining a ready, disciplined force capable of answering Georgia’s call in times of need.
That commitment was evident as one training cycle concluded and another began, with 25 new recruits recently taking the oath of enlistment or commission to begin their journey in the Georgia State Defense Force. Over the coming months, these individuals will undergo the same Initial Entry Training completed by the previous class. IET is a comprehensive program designed to provide the foundational skills required for military service and is modeled after U.S. Army Basic Training. Recruits are introduced to military discipline, physical conditioning, drill and ceremony, military customs and courtesies, and essential first aid techniques. Together, these elements instill structure, teamwork, resilience, and the mental toughness needed to operate effectively in challenging environments.
Beyond the fundamentals, IET prepares recruits for real-world operational demands. Trainees receive instruction in the use of military equipment, map reading, and land navigation, critical skills that enhance safety, situational awareness, and mission effectiveness in the field. Recruits also gain an understanding of the military chain of command and military law, reinforcing accountability and discipline while teaching them how they fit into a larger organizational structure. Leadership, integrity, and teamwork are emphasized throughout the course, shaping each trainee’s transition from civilian volunteer to capable, mission-ready Soldier.
These efforts culminated with the graduation of the Georgia State Defense Force Initial Entry Training Alpha Class 26 on January 11, 2026, at the Ellenwood Readiness Center in Ellenwood, Georgia. Graduates stood proudly alongside their cadre, including Staff Sergeant Russell Wright, instructor, Master Sergeant Raymond Slocumb Jr., primary instructor, and Private First Class. Kristy King, who collectively served as the core training staff responsible for mentoring and guiding the class. The cadre’s role was central to the success of the cycle, ensuring each recruit met the physical, mental, and professional standards required to become a GSDF Soldier. The class also recognized outstanding performance, with Specialist Gary Phipps earning the class leadership award and Specialist Elise Bennett receiving the academic award.
Initial Entry Training represents a defining step in the journey from citizen to Soldier. As a component of the Georgia Department of Defense, alongside the Georgia Army National Guard and the Georgia Air National Guard, the Georgia State Defense Force plays a vital role in supporting state missions, domestic operations, and emergency response. With IET complete, these newly minted Soldiers will now return to their home units, where they will continue their training as full members of the GSDF, standing ready to respond to the next emergency or mission.
StateDefenseForce.com congratulates the graduates of IET Alpha Class 26 and the newest recruits beginning their training journey. Their dedication, perseverance, and commitment to service strengthen the Georgia State Defense Force and ensure it remains ready to protect lives, property, and communities across the state of Georgia.
Graduates of the Georgia State Defense Force (GSDF) Initial Entry Training (IET) Alpha Class 26 with their cadre, Staff Sgt. Russell Wright, instructor (far left, black cap), Master Sgt. Raymond Slocumb Jr., primary instructor (far right black cap) and Pfc. Kristy King (2nd from the right) after the graduation ceremony, Ellenwood Readiness Center, Ellenwood, Ga., Jan 11, 2026.
Cadre refers to a group of officers and non-commissioned officers responsible for training and mentoring new or less experienced personnel. They serve as the core training staff, ensuring that recruits or trainees develop the necessary skills and discipline to become effective Soldiers.
IET is a program of physical and mental training required in order for an individual to become a Soldier in the GSDF.
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 Chief Warrant Officer 3 Alexander Davidson)
Georgia State Defense Force (GSDF) Initial Entry Training (IET) Alpha Class 26 graduates Spc. Gary Phipps (left), winner of the class leadership award and Spc. Elise Bennett (right), winner of the class academic award pose with their certificates after the IET Alpha Class 26 graduation ceremony, Ellenwood Readiness Center, Ellenwood, Ga., Jan 11, 2026.
IET is a program of physical and mental training required in order for an individual to become a Soldier in the GSDF.
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 Chief Warrant Officer 3 Alexander Davidson)
Source: Georgia State Defense Force
