We just passed Memorial Day, a time for Americans to reflect on the sacrifices made on our behalf by our fellow countrymen and women, past and present, so that we as a nation are able to continue to enjoy the benefits of liberty.
The days between Memorial Day and the Fourth of July include other patriotic days, like the anniversary of the D-Day landings in World War II and Flag Day. While much attention is rightly directed at veterans of major conflicts, other organizations? contributions go largely unrecognized. The Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) is one whose recognition is long overdue.
“Marylanders have a proud heritage of defending and serving their communities in times of war and disaster,” said Brig. Gen. (MD) Benjamin F. Lucas II, former commanding general of the Maryland Defense Force. “Our motto is ?Ready When Called,? and so we will be there.”
The MDDF traces its roots back to pre-Revolutionary colonial militias, where able men and their muskets provided homeland security. As with many matters military, the current defense force existed under a different aegis and name. However, the spirit of patriotism continues with the current force of 250 (and growing). Of particular appeal to taxpayers is that the organization operates with virtually no budget. The group is supported from time to time with in-kind services, such as office space, from the Maryland Military Department.
The current Maryland Defense Force is an all-volunteer organization whose goal is to supplement the needs of the Maryland National Guard and the Maryland Military Department in the event of a catastrophic event. Although they do not and will not carry weapons, members support the Maryland National Guard with lawyers, medical personnel, chaplains, training, and engineering/construction and communications help. The force has its own command structure, uniforms, ranks and credentials.
Among other services, the MDDF provides pro bono legal advice for military families when the head of household is overseas. It also assists troops prior to deployment by drawing up wills and powers-of-attorney.
Following the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, Lucas transformed the force into what it is today. He was central in recruiting lawyers and others who could not join the military for health or other reasons and those who did not know their services could be used by the MDDF.
Hurricane Katrina provided an outstanding example of the organization?s contributions. In its first out-of-state deployment, members, including dozens of top medical personnel from area hospitals, traveled to Jefferson Parish, La., a region decimated by the storm. The group cleaned an abandoned hospital, set up six clinics and assisted the needy. In a nod to American ingenuity, some clever fellows rigged a tiki bar on the hospital?s roof, which provided a much-welcomed respite from the rigors of the day.
Katrina proved a valuable training ground, while cementing the organization?s credentials both within and without Maryland. In fact, the MDDF?s success during Katrina has prompted governors from other states, including California and Ohio, to inquire how they can set up their own state defense forces along the new model provided by the MDDF.
Should a similar crisis hit home, Maryland?s Adjutant General, currently Major General Bruce Tuxill, would assign tasks for the MDDF. This could possibly include setting up disaster relief centers dispensing critical items such as fresh water or supplies, as well as supplying medical personnel. As Col. (MD) Courtney Wilson notes, “We?re not out in front, but behind. We have sustainability.”
The MDDF?s current Commander, Brig. Gen. (MD) Frederic N. Smalkin, said, “Utilizing our lessons learned from Katrina, the Defense Force has reorganized into a mission-oriented task-force structure geared to specific scenarios where the professional and military talents of our volunteer force can best be used to augment the Maryland Emergency Management Agency, the Army National Guard and the Air National Guard in serving the needs of Marylanders.”
If you feel a call to volunteer, you may visit the group?s Web site at www.mddefenseforce.org.
Brooke Gunning is the author of several regional bestsellers, including “Maryland Thoroughbred Racing,” “Baltimore?s Halcyon Days” and “Towson and the Villages of Ruxton and Lutherville.” She currently is at work on her next book.
