Michigan has a significant National Guard presence throughout the state, with Camp Grayling in Grayling, MI, being the largest National Guard training facility in the country. If not here, then possibly at the Fort Custer Training Center, the Alpena Combat Readiness Training Center, or one of the Air National Guard Bases in Battle Creek or Saginaw. These recruits go on to serve around the country or abroad as directed by the President of the United States.

Which is great. But what if the National Guard is deployed in one area and the need arises for it to be redeployed back home? What if Michigan's National Guard is needed but can't answer the call? Who is there to help?

The Michigan Defense Force is there to help; that's who.

What is the Michigan Defense Force?

The Michigan Defense Force (MIDF) is an extension of the National Guard, as designated by the Michigan Legislature, a state-level military organization. It was established by the Michigan Military Act (Section 32.655) in 1967, although state soldiers have volunteered in some capacity since 1917.

It is defined as a "state defense force and unorganized militia" whose criteria for deployment are as follows:

 In case of war, or a national emergency, when the national guard may be in the military service of the United States, the defense force shall be ready and able to protect the state in case of insurrection, invasion, disaster or other emergency, actual or imminent.

 

In such case the governor, as commander-in-chief, may use the defense force augmented if necessary by all or a part of the unorganized militia not responsive to the orders of the president for the time being. The determination of the governor that an emergency exists or is imminent is conclusive.

How The Michigan Defense Force Differs From The National Guard

Firstly, the National Guard can be deployed around the country and abroad, while the MIDF only operates in the State of Michigan (called "state soldiers"). Secondly, while the National Guard's commander-in-chief is the President of the United States, the MIDF's commander-in-chief is the Governor of Michigan. 

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These soldiers also have different requirements for service than traditional National Guard soldiers. MIDF initial enlistment is three years, and members are expected:

• Attend monthly drills (typically one weekend per month)
• Participate in annual training (up to two weeks per year, usually non-consecutive)
• Be available for in-state deployment in the event of emergencies.

How Often Is The MIDF Deployed?

The National Guard is not often short-handed, so the MIDF is rarely deployed. It was used during World War I, World War II, and the Korean War. The MIDF is primarily used to support disaster relief efforts, assisting the National Guard as needed. Otherwise, the MIDF serves more as a standby or just-in-case force, hence its tagline, "Ready and Able."