Thank you for reaching out to the Florida State Guard (FSG) regarding our recruitment process. With a heritage dating back to WWII, the FSG was reactivated in 2022 as a state-supported volunteer force providing rapid response humanitarian aid during natural and manmade disasters. The FSG is committed to serving Florida families in times of need—anytime, anywhere. Our all-volunteer force participates in an initial entry training program, quarterly drill periods, and annual training to develop and reinforce the skills necessary to sustain year-round ground, maritime, and aviation emergency response capabilities. Courses of instruction focus on basic medical care, route clearance, search and rescue, land navigation, wildfire management, and other emergency response skills.

Due to the limited number of positions available, the application process is highly competitive. All prospective applicants are encouraged to review the basic eligibility requirements, preferred qualifications, and the frequently asked questions below. Applications are reviewed and processed as openings become available, based on organizational needs.

All Soldiers must meet the following requirements and guidelines:

• Be a US citizen and Florida resident.

• Be between the ages of 18 and 60.

• During in-processing at Initial Entry Training (IET), applicants are required to complete and pass a full-panel urinalysis drug screening, undergo a basic physical examination, and a background check

• Be in general good health with no debilitating or hindering pre-existing medical conditions. Members of the Florida State Guard are often called to execute missions and training in austere environments. Applicants should be prepared to participate in rigorous physical activity and training.

• Adhere to all other requirements and guidelines as provided by FSG authorities.

• Applicants cannot be currently serving in the military, as dual service obligations could create conflicts during times of activation or emergency response.

If you have previously submitted an application, you need not reapply. Your information has been received, and an FSG agency staff member will be in touch once training openings become available

Due to the limited number of positions available, the application and selection process is highly competitive. To submit a strong application, all prospective applicants are encouraged to review the preferred qualifications below:

• Be between the ages of 18-40.

• Professional experience and/or industry-recognized certifications in law enforcement, emergency response, emergency management, first response, aviation operations, maritime operations, and public safety.

• Bilingual.

VA disability does not automatically disqualify anyone from membership with the FSG. However, all members are expected to meet physical fitness standards and perform physically demanding tasks. Each disability will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

Yes. If you have been deferred in the past, you can reapply.

Roles, responsibilities and ranks provided by another state defense force, military branch, law enforcement agency, or comparable emergency response entity will not automatically transfer to the FSG. However, please include these experiences in your personnel documents to submit a competitive application.

The FSG has a zero-tolerance policy for illicit drug use, to include recreational and medicinal marijuana use. All prospective, current, and active members must clear initial, and continued, background checks and full-panel urinalysis drug screenings. Testing positive for drug use, may result in the termination of your membership with the FSG.

During IET, you will participate in rigorous training focused on disaster and emergency preparation and response. Training activities will include basic medical, survival, and rescue courses along with daily physical fitness. Following the successful completion of all training requirements, you will have the fortitude, resilience, and experience necessary to serve the people of Florida in times of need.

We are always prepared, and we will make sure you are too. Prior to attending IET, you will receive an official packing list. All other necessary equipment will be issued to you at IET.

IET is hosted at Camp Blanding Joint Training Center in Starke, Florida approximately an hour from Jacksonville, Florida.

During the immersive three-week training regimen, all recruits will eat, sleep, and train at Camp Blanding throughout the entire duration of training.

To prepare, we encourage you to begin or continue a routine physical fitness regimen. For helpful exercises, please refer to the resources listed below:

• Holistic Health and Fitness Drills and Exercises (2020)

• Army Combat Fitness Test Overview

• Holistic Health and Fitness Handbook

Members of the Florida State Guard train on a quarterly basis (once every three months). In addition to quarterly training, units conduct an annual training, typically encompassing a two-week timeframe.

Currently routine training and drill periods are held at Camp Blanding Joint Training Center. However, all members must remain flexible to adjust for potential alternative training locations.

Pursuant to F.S. 251.001(8)(c), if you are injured during training or active service, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation. If you are injured during training or active service, you must notify your chain of command immediately.

All members of the FSG must successfully complete the IET program offered by the FSG. While training courses and certificates from other state defense forces may provide an advantage during promotion evaluations, they will not be accepted as a substitute for FSG training.