The paper “Expanding the Use of State Defense Forces in Homeland Defense Missions” by Lieutenant Colonel Brent C. Bankus argues that State Defense Forces (SDFs) offer an underutilized and cost-effective solution for filling homeland defense and security gaps caused by the high operational tempo of active-duty and National Guard units deployed overseas. Bankus explains that SDFs—currently active in twenty-two states and Puerto Rico—are authorized under Title 32 U.S. Code and operate under the command of state adjutants general to augment the National Guard in missions such as search and rescue, medical support, critical infrastructure protection, and disaster response. He emphasizes that SDFs operate almost entirely on a volunteer basis, costing states very little to maintain, and can be rapidly mobilized for emergencies, as demonstrated by the activation of the Alaska and New York State Guards after 9/11. Despite these advantages, he notes that federal support for SDFs remains inconsistent, with Congress providing legal authorization but little funding, leaving states responsible for their upkeep. The paper highlights challenges such as defining legal liability, standardizing training and fitness requirements, and clarifying SDFs’ organizational roles. Bankus concludes that with modest investment and stronger policy backing, SDFs could significantly enhance homeland security and national resilience, providing capable, motivated manpower for defense and disaster missions at minimal cost to taxpayers.
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