Gov. Ron DeSantis announced the reestablishment of the Florida State Guard during a press conference in Madeira Beach on June 15. The 400-member Guard is charged with responding to emergency situations including hurricanes and other natural disasters.
“By reestablishing the Florida State Guard we have a great opportunity to expand our capability to help people in times of need or disaster,” DeSantis said.
At the same time, DeSantis named native Floridian Marine Corps Lt. Col. Chris Graham (Ret.) the director of the volunteer civilian force.
In resurrecting the Guard, Florida joins 22 other states and territories with similar forces.
To qualify for the Florida Guard, potential members must be between 18 and 35 years of age, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and pass a physical.
For more details visit flsg.myflorida.com.