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WHAT IS THE MICHIGAN VOLUNTEER DEFENSE FORCE?

"The organized militia of this state taken collectively shall be known as the state military establishment and constitutes the armed forces of this state. The organized militia consists of the army national guard, the air national guard, and the defense force..." (32.509)

 

The Michigan Volunteer Defense Force is recognized as the "non-federal" officially sanctioned state defense force (SDF) and a component of the State of Michigan’s authorized military forces. The VDF functions under the command of the Governor (as Commander-in-Chief) and is directed by the Adjutant General. This force is authorized by Federal law, Title 32 of the United States Code and by Michigan law, the Michigan Military Act 150 of 1967. 

All VDF soldiers take an oath of allegiance to the United States of America and to the State of Michigan. VDF members agree to obey the orders of the Governor of the State of Michigan and of the officers appointed over them. Unlike the National Guard, the VDF currently cannot be called, ordered, or drafted into the federal armed forces. The primary service area falls within the boundaries of the State of Michigan.

 

HOW MUCH TIME AM I OBLIGATED TO GIVE EACH MONTH? 

All VDF soldiers are required to attend drill/training once per month and to attend annual training for up to four days per year. Depending upon your interest, your abilities, and your skill set, additional hours may be required to organize and/or complete assignments. These assignments may be done off-site according to your schedule.

 

AM I PAID FOR MY TIME?
If the governor activates the VDF, soldiers are paid at the same rate of pay as their National Guard counterparts, at equivalent rank or grade. Gubernatorial activations are not typical; most deployments are in a non-paid status.

AM I REIMBURSED FOR OUT OF POCKET EXPENSES?

At this time, VDF soldiers are not reimbursed for expenses. The only reimbursable expenses are those for which prior approval is given (check with your accountant for tax benefits related to non-reimbursed expenses).

 

AM I REQUIRED TO PASS A PHYSICAL EXAMINATION?
While there is not an official physical exam, all soldiers must be able to perform all assigned tasks without endangering yourself or others.

 

WHAT UNIFORM WILL I WEAR?
Pursuant to United States Army Regulation 670-1, paragraph 30-8c, VDF soldiers wear approved uniforms similar to standard Army uniforms, but with distinctive insignia designating you as a member of the VDF. (see MCL 750.401) Uniforms may be worn only to, at, and from drills, trainings, or other authorized or pre-approved functions. While in uniform, all rules of military courtesy must be observed.

 

AM I ISSUED UNIFORMS OR EQUIPMENT?

All officers and enlisted personnel are required to purchase and maintain their own uniforms and accessories upon appointment.

 

WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO JOIN?
Any United States citizen who is a resident of the State of Michigan and is between the ages of 17 and 65. Prior military service is not required. The complete list of requirements is as follows:
- Applicant must be a citizen of the United States and a resident of

  the State of Michigan
- Applicant must have a demonstrated understanding and

  proficiency in the English language
- Applicant must be a high school graduate or have passed the

  GED test
- Applicant must be medically qualified

WHY SHOULD I JOIN THE MICHIGAN VOLUNTEER DEFENSE FORCE?

The majority of VDF soldiers enlist in order to contribute their time and talent for the benefit of their community. The VDF is not a civic club, it is a military uniformed public service organization that functions for the benefit of the people of the State of Michigan and requires an obligation on the part of its members. Further, you will be carrying on the unique American tradition of volunteer militia service dating back to 1636 before the creation of the United States. You will serve with other patriotic people who have a knowing respect for military preparedness. You will work with other VDF members to accomplish missions important to the safety and security of the people and communities of Michigan. 

 

Lastly, but perhaps most challenging, you will have the opportunity to utilize the training you acquired in the military and in civilian life to develop, maintain, and build the cadre of the VDF as the officially recognized and sanctioned Michigan state defense force. Simply stated, you should join because you are a patriot and you live what you believe.

 

WHERE WILL I SERVE?

Soldiers are assigned to one of seven VDF battalions across the state. You will be assigned to a battalion that is in close proximity to your place of residence. If activated, you may be stationed anywhere in the State of Michigan that best serves the emergency needs of people in the affected community.

 

HOW DO I ENLIST?

Please use the contact information form provided on this website. Download the application, fully complete it, and mail to the address thereon. If you have prior service, attach an official copy of your military discharge or release. If you are 17 years of age, you must include the parental consent form signed by your guardian.

 

HOW IS MY RANK BE DETERMINED?  

Applicants are interviewed, evaluated, appointed, or enlisted to an appropriate rank based upon the availability of an authorized billet (job position) for the applicant within a unit or staff function. Other factors such as: prior military service, education, civilian occupation are also considered in accordance with established laws and regulations and without regard to race, religion, sex, or national origin.

 

ARE THESE “REAL” OFFICER AND ENLISTED RANKS?
According to Michigan law, VDF “officer and enlisted personnel shall be appointed in the same manner, and with like duties, responsibilities and authority as prescribed in special regulations” (32.671). All appointments, commissions, warrants, and enlistments are subject to recognition by the governor through the Adjutant General. All members may be called to State Active Duty to participate in missions when ordered by the governor through the Adjutant General or designee.

 

IS THERE ANYONE WHO IS INELIGIBLE TO JOIN?
The following persons are considered ineligible for enlistment or appointment:
- Convicted felons; Persons adjudged as a youthful offender
- Persons on parole or probation
- Persons with prior military service who have an RE-4 re-enlistment

  code on their DD-214
- Persons with prior military service whose discharge is characterized

  as other than “Honorable”
- Persons adjudged as a security risk
- Conscientious objectors
- Person not meeting acceptable height and weight standards
- Current members of any active or reserve component of the

  U.S. Armed Forces
- Persons convicted of any offense involving moral turpitude
- Persons with significant medical disorders that could endanger

  themselves or others
- Persons with medical disabilities which exceeds an RE-3 profile
- Persons required for Selective Service registration, but who have failed

  to do so

 

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