The Georgia State Defense Force (GASDF) plays a crucial role in preparing new recruits for military service through its comprehensive Initial Entry Training (IET – Basic Training) program. Held at the Southern Regional Training Institute in Ashburn, Georgia, the IET White Phase training immerses recruits in the basics of becoming a soldier. During this phase, recruits are introduced to a variety of fundamental skills, including radio communications, recognition of signs and levels, and treatment for heat injuries. They also learn litter carry techniques, map reading, and land navigation. To enhance the realism of their training, recruits carry simulated weapons known as “rubber ducks.” This phase is designed to build a solid foundation in military practices and prepare recruits for the responsibilities that come with serving in the Georgia State Defense Force.

The IET program offered by the Georgia State Defense Forces is essential for new recruits who have not previously served in the US Military. This basic training equips them with the core fundamental skills and knowledge necessary for military service. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including discipline and regulations, physical fitness, drill and ceremony, military customs and courtesies, and basic first aid. Additionally, recruits receive training in the handling and use of military equipment, map reading, and land navigation. The program also emphasizes the importance of understanding the chain of command, military law, and the armed forces’ core values, with a focus on leadership, integrity, and teamwork. Through this training, recruits are instilled with the discipline, resilience, and skills needed to function effectively and thrive within a military environment, laying the groundwork for a successful military career in the Georgia State Defense Force.

The IET program offered by the Georgia State Defense Forces is essential for new recruits who have not previously served in the US Military. This basic training equips them with the core fundamental skills and knowledge necessary for military service. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including discipline and regulations, physical fitness, drill and ceremony, military customs and courtesies, and basic first aid. Additionally, recruits receive training in the handling and use of military equipment, map reading, and land navigation. The program also emphasizes the importance of understanding the chain of command, military law, and the armed forces’ core values, with a focus on leadership, integrity, and teamwork. Through this training, recruits are instilled with the discipline, resilience, and skills needed to function effectively with The Georgia National Guard and in any military environment, laying the groundwork for a successful military career in the Georgia State Defense Force.

GASDF recruits attend IET White Phase training at the SOUTHERN REGIONAL TRAINING, INSTITUTE in Ashburn Georgia. During White Phase recruits learn radio communications, signs, levels, and treatment for heat injuries, litter carry techniques, map reading and land navigation, as well as many other basics of becoming a Soldier in the Georgia State Defense Force.

Recruits carry simulated weapons affectionately, known as “rubber, ducks” for training purposes only.

The GASDF is a military branch of the Georgia DOD. Interested in joining us? Call: 330–933–7620 to get more information.

We are Georgia’s state guard!