Michigan Defense Force Brigade - MIVDF

Chain of Command: Who Leads the Michigan Defense Force?
The Michigan Defense Force (MIDF) is an official, state-authorized military force operating as part of the Michigan Military Establishment, along with the Army and Air National Guard.

Here’s how our chain of command is structured — just like other military organizations:

1. Governor of Michigan, Gretchen Whitmer.
Commander in Chief of all state military forces.

2. The Adjutant General (TAG), Maj. Gen. Paul Rogers.
Appointed by the Governor, commands the Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA), which includes the National Guard and the Michigan Defense Force.

3. Commanding General, Michigan Defense Force (MIDF), LTC Jeff Steinport.
Leads the operational and training mission of the MIDF under TAG guidance.

4. Brigade and Battalion Commanders.
Oversee mission ex*****on, training, and readiness of subordinate units.

5. Company- and Team-Level Leaders.
Ensure local coordination, discipline, and preparedness at the ground level

Every member of the MIDF serves under lawful orders, wears a sanctioned uniform, and answers to a professional chain of command — from the Governor down to the newest recruit.

We’re here to serve Michigan - always ready and able.
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The United States Code affirms each state’s right to establish its own defense force/state guard —independent of federal activation or deployment.
“In addition to its National Guard, if any, a State… may, as provided by its laws, organize and maintain defense forces.”
— Title 32 U.S. Code § 109(c)
This statute empowers states to create a State Defense Force (often called a State Guard) —a state military organization that supports civil authorities, responds to emergencies, and enhances readiness within the state.
Michigan, like many other states, exercises this right through the Michigan Defense Force (MIDF)—trained, mission-focused, and ready to serve our communities when called.
Have you served in the State Guard or do you know of others who have?
📖 Learn more: https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/32/109
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This Memorial Day, we pause to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation. The Michigan Defense Force remembers and thanks every fallen hero. Your courage is not forgotten. 🇺🇸

On April 19, 1917, the Michigan State Troops Permanent Force (the parent organization of the Michigan State Police and the Michigan State Defense Force) was officially established. Michigan's leaders recognized the need for a trained & ready force to protect the state while the Michigan National Guard and federal forces were deployed globally in response to World War I.

In times of peace and war, the Michigan State Police (MSP) and the Michigan State Defense Force (MIDF) have served in various roles throughout the last 108 years. While MSP has evolved into Michigan's premier law enforcement agency, the MIDF has been established as the third branch of Michigan's military establishment.

The MIDF currently trains for disaster response, search & rescue, and other in-state missions.

For over a century, our state defense force has stood READY & ABLE to serve Michigan's citizens in their time of need. Throughout Michigan this legacy continues as dedicated men and women commit to serving their communities and their fellow citizens.

Happy birthday, MSP & MIDF!

Have you, or someone that you know, served in Michigan's state defense force?

Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments.

https://www.michigan.gov/msp/about-msp/history