An induction ceremony was held for five members of the newly organized HHC 203rd Battalion 2nd Brigade of the Alabama State Defense Force (ASDF) in Troy.

Dennis Griffith, David Harriman, Elaine McLeod, Don Smith and Tommy Woodard were inducted into the Alabama State Defense Force by Lt. Col. Alex Balkcum and were the first recruits for HHC 203rd Battalion 2nd Brigade.

When ordered, the mission of the ASDF is to provide an organized, trained, disciplined, rapid response volunteer force to assist state and local government agencies and civil relief organizations in impending or actual emergencies to assure the welfare and safety of the citizens of Alabama.

The Troy brigade is under the command of Capt. Bob McLendon and is in the process of recruiting members.

“When ordered by the Adjutant General, the mission of the ASDF is to provide manpower and relief assistance to the Alabama Emergency Management Agency (EMA) during natural disasters and other civil emergencies within the State of Alabama,” McLendon said.

When activated, the Troy brigade will work closely with the Pike County EMA primarily by performing administrative duties and in the areas of communications and damage assessment during emergency situations.

“The ASDF is open to anyone 18 years and older who would like to be ready to assist their fellow citizens,” McLendon said.

“Military experience is not needed. However, many members are former military personnel who are looking for an opportunity to consider serving in uniform.”

The ASDF is made up of men and women from all walks of life. Many are professionals from career fields including medicine, finance, marketing and law.

Young people who are trying to decide what their career path will be are also members of the ASDF.

“We are actively recruiting members and lawyers and chaplains are greatly needed,” McLendon said. “But we have a place for anyone who wants to become a member. Those with physical limitations are welcome to join.”

The ASDF offers training in disaster relief and emergency management. The Troy brigade meets once a month for training.

Col. Warner May, Civil Affairs Office, State Headquarters, said the ASDF is allowed by the Constitution of Alabama, the Code of Alabama and Executive Order.

May said that the ASDF is organized on the United States Army structural pattern and is under the control of the Governor of Alabama and comes under the authority The Adjutant General of the Alabama National Guard.

For more information about the ASDF, contact McLendon at (330) 372-2399 or Griffith at (334) 670-0595.