COMPONENT OF THE MISSISSIPPI MILITARY DEPARTMENT
ABOUT THE MS STATE GUARD (MSSG)
Our History
The Mississippi State Guard was initially established as the Home Guard by executive order in 1941, during World War II, after the Mississippi National Guard units were called to federal active duty. In 1986, when the United States Army adopted the "Total Force Concept" in which the National Guard of all states are trained as, and considered an integral part of, the active duty forces of the United States military (though remaining under State control unless activated to Federal Service), the MSSG was re-activated and re-organized as a cadre force to augment the state's National Guard Forces, as necessary, in the event of their federal deployment.
Our Mission
To establish and maintain an all-volunteer formal military organization as the state's reserve to the Mississippi National Guard (MSNG). The MSSG is to assist the MSNG with in-state missions as directed by the Governor and the Adjutant General of Mississippi. The MSSG must always be ready to adapt to the ever changing needs of the State and the MS National Guard.
Legal Authority
U.S. Code, Title 32, Section 109, authorized the states to organize a State Defense Force (SDF) as provided by its laws. The Mississippi Code of 1972, Chapter 5, paragraph 33-5-1 thru 33-5-53 authorizes the establishment of the Mississippi State Guard.
Operational Authority
Operating under the authority of the Mississippi Military Department, it is on an equal constitutional basis with the Mississippi Army National Guard, (MSARNG) and the Mississippi Air National Guard (MSANG). The Commanding General of the State Guard is appointed by the Adjutant General of the State of Mississippi, and answers directly to him. Further, all Commissioned Officer appointments and or promotions must be approved by the Adjutant General.
Selfless Service
Mississippi State Guard members are VOLUNTEERS, SELF EQUIPPED and are only paid when called to service by the Mississippi Military Department.