Enhancing Readiness of the California National Guard
Organized, trained, and dedicated to enhancing readiness for California’s state and federal missions.
California State Guard
Mission
Legal Authority and Structure
A Rich History Of Service
Formation and Role During World War II
The California State Guard (CSG) traces its roots back to 1846, during the Bear Flag Revolt when volunteer militias formed to protect settlers and maintain order before California became a state. These early militias laid the foundation for the state’s military forces, evolving into the California Militia, and later, the California National Guard and the California State Guard. Throughout its history, the CSG has adapted its structure and role, but its mission to safeguard California has remained unchanged.
Legacy of Service
Officially organized as the State Defense Force of California in 1941, the CSG took on crucial homeland security roles during World War II, supporting the state while the National Guard was deployed overseas. Post-war, the CSG continued to play a vital role in responding to state emergencies such as floods, earthquakes, and wildfires, as well as providing humanitarian aid during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. Today, it remains a key component of California’s emergency response system, reflecting a legacy of service and commitment to the state’s safety and resilience.
Modern-Day Operations
Enhancing Readiness of the California National Guard
The primary role of the California State Guard (CSG) is to enhance the readiness of the California National Guard (CNG) and for both state and federal responsibilities. This is achieved through joint training exercises, logistical support, and providing specialized capabilities, which ensure that the CNG is are prepared for a wide range of missions. By strengthening their overall readiness, the CSG helps the CNG focus on their core responsibilities, making them more effective in their operations.
Supporting the California Military Department in Civil Emergencies
In addition to supporting the CNG the CSG also supports the California Military Department (CMD) which responds to civil emergencies within the state. CSG provide critical assistance during natural disasters like floods and wildfires, and offer humanitarian aid during pandemics, such as assembling and distributing essential supplies during the COVID-19 crisis.
Readiness and Service
Operational Preparedness
The California State Guard (CSG) operates over 25 active units. These units work closely with the California National Guard and the California Military Department (CMD) to enhance the state’s preparedness and ensure a rapid and effective response to both state emergencies and federal deployments.
Commitment to Service and Community
Upholding its motto, “Ready to Respond,” the CSG remains committed to its mission of protecting and serving the people of California. Through its resilience and dedication, the CSG provides critical support and assistance during times of need, ensuring the safety and well-being of the state’s communities.
Our Senior Leadership
commanding General
BG (CA) Darrin Bender
Commanding General
California State Guard
Command Sergeant Major
CSM (CA) Peterson
Command Sergeant Major
California State Guard
Army readiness Commander
COL (CA) Shiloh Brings
Air READINESS Commander
Col (CA) Clyde Doheney
FORCES SUPPORT COMMAND
COL (CA) Joseph Von Sauers
CALIFORNIA
MILITARY DEPARTMENT
The California Military Department (CMD) is a California state agency established under the California Military and Veterans Code § 550, responsible for overseeing the state’s military organizations. These include the Office of the Adjutant General, which provides leadership and coordination, the California Army National Guard, the California Air National Guard, the California State Guard, and the California Cadet Corps.
The department plays a crucial role in ensuring the readiness and operational capabilities of these forces, which are tasked with both state and federal missions.