VA National Guard Armory
692 Waterloo Road
Warrenton, VA 20186
Battalion Commander
LTC Holland
Executive Officer / S1
MAJ Terrill
Command Sergeant Major
CSM Williams
All contents copyright
© 2009 23rd Battalion, Blackhorse Brigade, Virginia Defense Force
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the eligibility requirements for membership in the Virginia Defense Force?
United States citizenship or Legal Resident Alien status
A valid Social Security number
Age 16 to 65 (Minors require written consent of parent or legal guardian.)
Physical ability to perform in any assigned billet
No felony convictions
Good moral character
Are members of the Virginia Defense Force armed?
The Code of Virginia states that "members of the Virginia State Defense Force shall not be armed with firearms during the performance of training duty or state active duty, except under circumstances and in instances authorized by the Governor." (§ 44.54.12)
Are members of the Virginia Defense Force paid?
Members receive pay only while on active duty authorized by the Governor. Pay rates are based on the U.S. Department of Defense's military pay scale and members' rank. Members are not paid for monthly drills or annual field training exercises.
How long are enlistments in the Virginia Defense Force?
Membership in the Virginia Defense Force is voluntary and members may request discharge at any time.
How are ranks assigned to new members of the Virginia Defense Force?
New members of the Virginia Defense Force with prior federal service may enter the force at the same grade held in federal service, provided a billet of matching grade is vacant at time of appointment or enlistment. New members without prior federal service shall be enlisted. New members with certain professional occupations (doctors, lawyers, nurses and pilots) may join the force as commissioned officers if assigned to a billet matching their civilian occupations.
Are members of the Virginia Defense Force required to wear uniforms?
The Code of Virginia requires the force to be uniformed, conforming to standards of dress and appearance prescribed by the Adjutant General of Virginia. The uniform for the Virginia Defense Force is a modified version of the United States Army's legacy Battle Dress Uniform (BDU) which conforms to state specific requirements contained in National Guard Bureau Regulation 10-4. (§ 44.54.9)
What are the medical requirements for membership in the Virginia Defense Force?
While the Virginia Defense Force does not require formal physical testing or training, members must be physically able to perform assigned duties.
Is my job protected if I am ordered to state active duty with the Virginia Defense Force?
The Code of Virginia provides employment protections for members of the Virginia Defense Force and the Virginia National Guard. (§ 44.93)
Current Training Initiatives
Emergency Operations Center Training
Perimeter and Installation Security
Crowd and Riot Control Techniques
Property and Equipment Security
Safety and Risk Management
Personnel Evacuation
Area Reconnaissance
Traffic Control
Shelter Management
Radio Communications
Basic Disaster Response Skills
Fire Safety
Light Search and Rescue
Team Organization
Disaster Medical Operations
First-Aid Training
Life-Saver Training