The article “A State Guard / State Defense Force Advisory Reserve” by Colonel (MDDF-Ret.) Martin Hershkowitzproposes the creation of a specialized “Minutemen” Advisory Reserve within State Defense Forces to harness the experience of retired and senior professionals who can no longer serve in regular line units due to age or physical limitations. Hershkowitz argues that these individuals—rich in knowledge, leadership, and technical expertise—are an invaluable yet underutilized resource for State Defense Forces struggling with limited manpower and funding. The concept allows these reservists to serve in a non-deployable, advisory capacity, providing targeted assistance to commanders, staff, and mission teams when needed without being tied to mandatory drills or musters. The proposal outlines benefits such as increased flexibility, the ability to recruit specialized experts from inside or outside the state, and preserving organizational continuity. To maintain cohesion, the article recommends that Advisory Reserve members wear the same uniform as regular SDF troops, differentiated only by a distinct backing color on the nameplate. Hershkowitz concludes that such a Minutemen-style reserve would enhance SDF operational capability, expand its talent pool, and strengthen its overall mission effectiveness while honoring the contributions of seasoned veterans and professionals.
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