Since their inception during World War I, State Defense Forces have been state-based soldiers who are paid while on State Active Duty but not for training or travel expenses. These soldiers volunteered their weekends and week-long Annual Training events without compensation, although they were provided with food and housing by the State Defense Force. During non-emergency missions, such as performing Installation Status Report (ISR) missions or providing medical, administrative, and logistical support to the National Guard, these soldiers remained unpaid. This practice saved the National Guard and the State millions of dollars. For instance, instead of hiring contractors to build a walkway at a New York military facility, the New York Guard Engineering Unit completed the project, saving tens of thousands of dollars.
This arrangement has remained unchanged for decades. However, a new concept is gaining traction among multiple State Defense Forces. States like New York have already begun implementing this change, while others are still considering it. The proposed change would provide pay to State Defense Force soldiers for training missions, Annual Training, and non-emergency missions.
In this week’s poll, we want to hear your thoughts on a potential change. Do you support paying State Defense Force soldiers for every weekend training drill, Annual Training, and non-emergency mission, or do you believe they should remain unpaid to save money for the National Guard and the State?
- Yes, State Defense Force soldiers should be paid for weekend drills, Annual Training & Non-Emergency Missions
- No, State Defense Force soldiers join as volunteers and they should continue to save The National Guard & State money
- No, but State Defense Forces should receive benefits such as lower cost or free tuition at State Colleges, more access to scholarships, State Hiring Preferences, etc.
