Recruiting for Alabama State Defense Force

Have you thought of supporting your country by joining the Alabama State Defense Force? Here's information you need to know about the 1st Infantry Brigade at Balch National Guard Armory in Huntsville: 1. WHAT IS THE MISSION OF THE ALABAMA STATE DEFENSE FORCE?

The Alabama State Defense Force will assume the in-state duties of the Alabama National Guard when and if its units are called to federal duty outside of Alabama. If required, the Alabama State Defense Force will occupy and secure armories and other essential areas designated by the Governor; assist local and state law enforcement agencies in the preservation of law and order; perform security missions at vital installations and protect life and property in case of natural disaster. The mission is a broad one and training for it is just as broad.

2. WHO MAKES UP THE ALABAMA STATE DEFENSE FORCE?
Alabama citizens of any race, religion, or sex between the ages of 17 and 70 who are interested in serving their fellow citizens. Some over age 70 who are in good health will be given a waiver. Prior military experience is not a requirement.

3. WHERE WILL I SERVE?
You will serve at a National Guard Armory located in your area. The Alabama State Defense Force can never be ordered to duty outside the state of Alabama.

4. CAN I GET CREDIT FOR CIVILIAN EXPERIENCE?
In most cases, YES! Urgently needed skills may result in a higher rank determination on joining. Recruits with no military experience may qualify for commissioned or non-commissioned rank, based on education and civilian experience.

5. DO I HAVE TO SUPPLY ANYTHING?
Personnel traditionally supply their own uniforms.

6. DOES THE ALABAMA STATE DEFENSE FORCE RECEIVE TRAINING?
Yes. The Alabama State Defense Force trains in specialized techniques such as crowd control, urban evacuation, traffic control, military security, first aid, disaster relief, family services and emergency management.

7. IS THE ALABAMA STATE DEFENSE FORCE A FORMAL MILITARY ORGANIZATION?
Yes, The Alabama State Defense Force is provided for in Alabama's Code of Laws. It is a formal military organization that follows normal military courtesies and customs. The Army rank structure is used.

8. WHAT UNIFORM WILL BE WORN?
The duty uniform for most members of the Alabama State Defense Force is the Army woodland camouflage BDU with camouflage cap. Army dress uniforms (class A and class B) with garrison cap are authorized as well.

HOW CAN I APPLY TO JOIN THE ALABAMA STATE DEFENSE FORCE?
Contact the 1st Brigade Recruiting Officer, MAJ Joel Carwile at (256) 828-2736/828-4835 or send your e-mail to: recruitingofficer@mchsi.com:

-- Your full name
-- Your residence address
-- Telephone numbers
-- Email address
-- Any personal information we might need, like:
--Whether you have prior military service experience.
--What was your rank, and what did you do.
--Any useful civilian experience you may have, like police, firefighter, first aid, emergency management, public affairs, marketing, teaching, etc.

You will then be contacted by a representative of the Alabama State Defense Force 1st Brigade who will provide you with more information prior to your enlistment or appointment and be able to answer any questions you may have concerning the ASDF. The next step will be to complete a qualification record application and turn it into or mail it to the 1st Brigade Recruiting Officer and then plan to attend the next scheduled first Tuesday night of the month drill at Balch National Guard Armory at the intersection of Airport and Lehman Ferry Roads in Huntsville, Alabama.

Mail to: MAJ Joel Carwile 104 Cashions Court Hazel Green, Alabama 35750