Service for the common good is a proud Virginia heritage. Born in the earliest days of our nation's history, voluntary service by and for the citizens of Virginia was a cornerstone upon which our nation was built. Today that spirit still thrives in the citizen soldier. Bringing diverse professional skills and talents, Virginians continue to unselfishly answer the call of their fellow citizens in times of crisis, disaster, emergency or need as members of the Virginia State Defense Force.

The Mission

The Virginia Defense Force is an all-volunteer, formal military organization working specifically to assist local and state public agencies throughout the Commonwealth whenever and wherever help is needed. Their mission is to assist the Virginia National Guard in performing state missions as specified by the Governor or, if need be, to assume the total mission of the Guard should they not be available.

The Virginia Defense Force is the state's only military force that is independent of federal control, but it is so much more than just a military organization. With units located throughout the state, the Virginia Defense Force can move into a stricken area quickly, interact with and assist local authorities and restore community integrity as a soon as possible. Working during blizzards, hurricanes, tornadoes and other disasters, Virginia State Defense Force volunteers are familiar faces working in nearby towns and cities bringing aid and comfort to their neighbors.

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For more information on state-wide opportunities, please visit Virginia Defense Force or send a note to vdfinfo@vdfmail.us.

See the latest edition of the VDF Newsletter, "The Bugler."