We’re excited to announce the latest addition to StateDefenseForce.com’s library of original articles. In this compelling new piece, renowned military historian Professor Barry Stentiford examines the Virginia Reserve Militia of World War II—locally formed “Minute Men” units that were absorbed into Virginia’s state military structure to protect rural communities while the National Guard served overseas.
In this comprehensive article, Professor Stentiford traces how self-organized neighborhood defense groups coalesced after Pearl Harbor, became the Virginia Reserve Militia under the Adjutant General, and grew to thousands of members across more than a hundred companies. He explains their mission set—rapid response to saboteurs and parachute raiders, assistance to law enforcement, searches for missing persons, guarding downed Army aircraft to protect classified technology like the Norden bombsight, and even securing wartime ration materials. The piece also explores training pipelines at VMI, Fort Meade, and Fort Eustis; the improvisation required when members supplied their own arms and uniforms; and the VRM’s disbandment in September 1945—highlighting how state-controlled forces can quickly meet domestic security needs in times of national crisis.
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Click Here To Read The Article
Click Here To Read The Article
Special Thank you To Professor Barry Stentiford whose work has been incredible and revolutionary.
