Virginia Secretary of Veterans and Defense Affairs Visits Virginia Defense Force

Retired U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Craig Crenshaw, Virginia’s Secretary of Veterans and Defense Affairs, visited the Virginia Defense Force (VDF) during a multi-unit training assembly on Nov. 2, 2024, at Fort Barfoot, Virginia. Crenshaw met with VDF personnel, thanking them for their volunteer service and commitment to enhancing the state’s readiness. His visit included an information brief provided by the 31st Cyber Battalion, showcasing the unit’s role in bolstering Virginia’s cyber defense.

The assembly emphasized the VDF’s critical role in supporting the Commonwealth. Crenshaw’s engagement with the VDF Headquarters staff and cyber specialists highlighted the organization’s efforts to adapt to modern challenges, particularly in cyber defense. By leveraging the expertise of its members, the VDF continues to fulfill its mission of augmenting the state’s military readiness and protecting vital infrastructure. The awards ceremony underscored the dedication of individual members whose innovations directly enhance the VDF’s operational capabilities.

The VDF’s 31st Cyber Battalion plays an integral role in Virginia’s cyber defense strategy, augmenting the Virginia National Guard’s 91st Cyber Brigade, the first and only Army National Guard cyber brigade. The 91st Cyber Brigade oversees five battalions and cyber protection teams spanning over 30 states, serving as a strategic asset for U.S. Cyber Command. The VDF’s cyber specialists bring expertise from the civilian IT and cybersecurity sectors, contributing to a unified defense against evolving cyber threats. Through collaboration, training, and operational support, the VDF enhances the brigade’s mission of safeguarding Virginia’s digital infrastructure and ensuring readiness for emerging challenges.

Click here To Learn More About The 31st Cyber Battalion Training & Mission

Retired U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Craig Crenshaw, Virginia Secretary of Veterans and Defense Affairs, visits members of the Virginia Defense Force during a multi-unit training assembly Nov. 2, 2024, at Fort Barfoot, Virginia. Crenshaw learned more about the organization and thanked the VDF personnel for volunteering their time to conduct training. After meeting with members of the VDF Headquarters staff, the VDF’s 31st Cyber Battalion provided Crenshaw with an information brief. He also presented the Virginia Bronze Star to Chief Warrant Officer 3 (Va.) James Schmidt and Cpl. (Va.) Douglas Rumburg in recognition for their efforts in building the VDF’s communications capabilities.