In Episode 6 of Scuttlebutt, we take a deep dive into one of the most significant developments in the State Defense Force community: pay and benefits. For the first time, state legislatures are passing bills that provide compensation to State Defense Force troops not just for State Active Duty activations, but also for weekend drills and Annual Training. We break down the pros and cons of this historic change—how it could strengthen retention and readiness, while also raising questions about the traditional spirit of volunteerism that has defined these forces for decades.
The conversation then shifts to the unique benefits already offered by some State Defense Forces, from free hunting and fishing licenses to education discounts and scholarship opportunities, highlighting the diverse ways states support their troops. Finally, we share a preview of new initiatives StateDefenseForce.com is preparing to roll out in the coming months, including support programs designed to directly benefit soldiers in the field. We also discuss our upcoming fundraiser, which will help make these projects possible.
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.