The Georgia State Defense Force (GSDF) recently celebrated the distinguished career of Col. Robert Landin with a retirement ceremony held at GSDF headquarters in Ellenwood, Georgia, on January 4, 2025. Col. Landin, whose military career spanned more than 42 years, retired from the U.S. Army in 1981 and joined the GSDF in 2003. Over his tenure with the GSDF, he served in various critical roles, culminating in his position as Inspector General. In recognition of his exceptional service, Col. Landin was awarded the prestigious Oglethorpe Distinguished Service Medal, an engraved gift from the GSDF Association, and other accolades. His contributions to both the U.S. Army and the GSDF underscore his lifelong commitment to service, reflecting the GSDF’s proud tradition as a component of the Georgia Department of Defense.
For many prior service members like Col. Landin, joining their State Defense Force offers an opportunity to continue serving their state and country while fostering a sense of camaraderie. State Defense Forces provide a vital resource during natural disasters and state emergencies, allowing members to leverage their civilian & military experience to help communities in need. These troops find purpose in supporting their state’s National Guard and serving their neighbors, proving that the call to serve doesn’t end with active duty but extends into meaningful contributions at home.
Georgia State Defense Force (GSDF) Col. Robert Landin retires, GSDF headquarters, Ellenwood, Ga., Jan. 4, 2025.
Upon retirement from the GSDF, he received the Oglethorpe Distinguished Service Medal (shown), an engraved gift from the GSDF Association, and other accolades.
Col. Landin retired from the U.S. Army in 1981. He joined the GSDF in 2003. His military career (in the U.S. Army and the GSDF) encompassed more than 42 years.
In the GSDF, Col. Landin served in numerous roles. Just prior to retirement, he was GSDF Inspector General.
The GSDF is a component of the Georgia Department of Defense, along with the Georgia Air National Guard and the Georgia National Guard.
Join the GSDF at gsdf.link/join.
(Georgia State Defense Force photo by Pfc. Emma Foley)
Source: Georgia State Defense Force
