Can Citizens Join Real Militias in the United States?

In the United States, the concept of citizen militias has often been brought up in discussions about military and defense. However, the reality is often more nuanced than the popular perception. This article aims to explore whether there are real militias that citizens can join and the different forms these organizations can take.

Understanding the National Guard

The term 'militia' in the United States can often be confused with the National Guard, which is officially recognized and more formally structured. In 1903, the National Guard was organized from the state militias. The National Guard is considered the only truly 'real' militia under U.S. law. According to Title 10 of the U.S. Code, National Guard members can be activated for federal service. They receive formal training, pay, and equipment, all in line with the discipline prescribed by Congress.

The Unorganized Militia

The term 'unorganized militia' refers to any citizen who is a U.S. citizen or has the intent to become one, and is between the ages of 17 and 45. This term is more of a legal construct than an organized military unit. Any group of citizens who form their own militia are not considered to be 'real' milita by the U.S. government. However, they do exist and are within the legal framework of American federal law.

State-Level Militia Options

For American citizens in certain states, there are additional options for joining organized militia groups. In Texas, for example, residents can join the Texas Army National Guard, which is a state organization available for federal service. This group is paid, trained, and equipped according to federal standards. Alternatively, citizens can join the Texas State Guard, which is a state militia organization focusing solely on state missions. These two organizations represent forms of more structured militia groups recognized in the state of Texas.

For those outside of Texas, most states have similar organizations where citizens can participate. These state militias often include reserve forces that are ready to be called upon in times of need. They participate in community service, events, and may even provide support during natural disasters. Their roles are both in support of the National Guard and in certain state-specific capacities.

Vestiges of the Old Militia System

While the National Guard and state militias represent the most organized forms of modern militia groups, there are also "state defense forces" that exist in approximately 22 states. Unlike the National Guard, these units are completely under state control and are not subject to federalization. They are active in natural disaster response and protecting National Guard facilities when units are deployed out of state. Despite their name and historical role, these groups are not generally armed and carry out their roles without weapons.

Conclusion

The landscape of militia in the United States has significantly changed over the years. The day of citizens drilling on the village green is indeed long gone, replaced by more structured and formalized military organizations like the National Guard and state defense forces. For those interested in joining a real militia, the most options are the National Guard or these obscure state defense forces. These options align with both legal and respectable standards in the current American military landscape.