V.M.M Virginia Minutemen Militia

Our Mission Statement

To open our ranks to all citizens who love Liberty, without regard to one’s race, religion, creed,

or sex. To deny participation to those who seek to harm the Republic, discredit us or our goals.

To uphold the just and lawful statues of the nation as stated in the US and Virginia Constitution.

To teach the correct, unvarnished history of our Republic and our State, the formation of our

Constitution and Bill of Rights. To promote the safe and responsible use of Arms for the

protection of our families, our property, our American way of life and of our Republic. To help

our communities in times of natural and manmade disasters.

Membership Terms

1. V.M.M is a voluntary group. You can withdraw anytime you choose.

2. It is mandatory to be active and participate in community outreach work.

3. If more than two months of inactivity you will have to meet with company commander. Your

case will then be brought to the V.M.M tribunal for review.

4. A phone number and email address will be provided to the company commander for the

purpose of alert. Members must participate in alert drills.

5. In the event of a disaster, emergency, or crisis members must report in and follow directions.

6. If you choose to resign you MUST return all equipment to company commander.

7. All video and pictures are property of the VMM and maybe used for recruiting purposes.

8. Recruits must complete a 120 day probation period before being accepted into the ranks.

9. Within the probationary period you must purchase your uniform, radio, all gear on the new

recruit list, your CHP, and be CPR certification.

10. A background check will be run on all new recruits.

11. You must disclose past and present medical issues.

12. There is a 25 dollar fee after the 120 day probationary period.

13. A 25 dollar fee is to be paid on June 1st for all members.

14. A 10 dollar monthly due paid on the 15th of each month.

15. New members must take our firearms training class before they can participate in firearms

drills.

Structure

The V.M.M is a defensive force set up to protect the constitutional rights of the people of

Virginia. We will be at a state of readiness so when the time arises we can help the citizens.

As a member you must follow this structure so that V.M.M can maintain as a defensive force

and help the community in times of natural and manmade disasters. Officers must effectively

organize group efforts and provide for unit training, unit organization, response strategies,

intelligence, and communications. Logistics officers must ensure the acquisition resources

consistent with the roll the unit has. Each member must acquire and develop proficiency in

the use of firearms, field and specialized equipment. Each member must be committed to the

purpose and goals of the unit. In any organization, there must be a clear chain of command to

insure effective coordination of units.

General Orders and Instructions

1. All prospective militia members must read study and understand these general orders and

instructions prior to joining.

2. V.M.M members must maintain a positive proper perspective and focus as to what our

purpose and goals are.

3. All members are to keep their personal arms and equipment in a state of readiness at all

times.

4. For the safety of all drug use will not be tolerated. Anyone found to be using an illegal

substance will be discharged and encouraged to seek professional help.

5. Discharge will be given to anyone deemed a danger to the well­being or image of the militia.

6. Threats of any kind will not be tolerated. Members will be held accountable for their actions.

7. Members are reminded that the entire militia will be judged by the speech and actions of

individuals in the group.

8. Involvement with racists, their originations and other subversive association is prohibited.

9. Persons restricted from owning a firearm are disqualified from military training.

10. Members are reminded that recruiting, training, organizing are the objectives we work

towards. V.M.M leadership, members, resources are not to be used for other agendas.

11. All V.M.M members affirm that they will defend the Republic from all enemies foreign and

domestic, and to uphold the constitutions (US and VIRGINIA) that we live by.

Code of Conduct

All Personnel should memorize this code of conduct. It represents a tradition of

independence and integrity that goes back to the Founding Fathers and their peers. The

Minutemen Code is badge of pride!

1. I am a Virginia Minutemen. I belong to the militia, which are the whole people. We are

committed to protecting our State, Country, and our way of life.

2. I will never surrender of my own free will. If in command I will never surrender my men while

they have the means to resist!

3. If captured I continue to resist by all means available. I will make every effort to escape and

aid my fellow man to escape. I will accept neither parole nor special favors from the Enemy.

4. If I become a prisoner, I will keep faith with my fellow prisoners. I will give no information or

take part in any actions that will be harmful to my colleagues. If I am senior I will take

command. If not I will obey the lawful orders of those appointed over me and will back them

up in every way.

5. When questioned, should I become prisoner, I am required to give name, rank, and date of

birth. I will evade answering questions to the best of my ability. I will make no oral or written

statements disloyal to my State, Country and my fellow man, or allies or harmful to our cause.

6. I will never forget that I am a Virginia Minutemen, responsible for my actions, and dedicated

to the principles that made my Country and State free.

V.M.M Religious Freedom Declaration

Religious freedom is one of the distinguished features of a nation with liberty. The V.M.M

does not discriminate on one's beliefs or religion. We will not bar membership from those

freedom

loving Americans who practice non­traditional beliefs.

General Guidelines

General Membership:

General membership in the Virginia Minutemen Militia is open to all lawful citizens of the

State of Virginia between the ages of 18­70. There shall be no discrimination due to sex, race,

national origin or physical characteristics. All prospective members are required to give their

name, date of birth, address, contact information, next of kin, and general information detailing

prior military experience and/or other such skills as may be utilized by the V.M.M. All

information shall be kept private under all circumstances and destroyed in the event of a crisis;

and shall be used for no other purpose than the internal business of the unit. All members are

required to pass up to a 120 day probationary period after which they are to subscribed to the

Code of Conduct and swear and affirm the membership oath.

For Non­Commissioned Members:

“I (name), do solemnly swear and affirm that I will support and defend the Constitution

of the United States and Virginia against all enemies, both foreign and domestic; that I

will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; and that I will obey of those that are

appointed over me, for conscience sake; so help me God.

For Commissioned Officers:

“I (name), having been elected as an officer in the Virginia Minutemen Militia

(Unorganized), in the grade of (grade), do solemnly swear and affirm that I will support

the Constitution of the United States and Virginia against all enemies both foreign and

domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; that I will take this

obligation freely; without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion; and that I will

well and faithfully discharge the duties of the office upon which I am about to enter; so

help me God.

Personal Equipment

Each member will be issued an itemized list of certain personal and Unit equipment

which he must procure and maintain. This equipment is necessary to the performance

of his duties, personal sustenance and hygiene; and shall be maintained packed and

ready for deployment at all times. A 20 minute or shorter departure capability is

strongly recommended. Each member should bring with him enough food rations and

water to sustain them during meetings and training.

Virginia Minutemen Militia Organization Chart

The State as a Whole, is a Corp

Zone setup

16 zones or Regional command

First Brigade

1st Battalion Hanover, New Kent

2nd Battalion Henrico, Charles City

3rd Battalion Goochland, Powhatan

4th Battalion Chesterfield, Dinwiddie, Prince George

Second Brigade

1st Battalion James City, Williamsburg

2nd Battalion Newport News, Hampton

3rd Battalion York, Poquoson

Third Brigade

1st Battalion Stafford, Spotsylvania

2nd Battalion Carolina, King George

Fourth Brigade

1st Battalion Frederick, Clarke

2nd Battalion Shenandoah, Page

3rd Battalion Warren, Rappahannock

4th Battalion Madison, Culpeper, Orange

Fifth Brigade

1st Battalion Rockingham, Greene

2nd Battalion

August, Albemarle

3rd Battalion Louisa, Fluvanna

Sixth Brigade

1st Battalion Craig, Alleghany

2nd Battalion Roanoke, Botetourt

3rd Battalion Bedford, Franklin

4th Battalion Montgomery, Floyd

Seventh Brigade

1st Battalion Washington, Russell

2nd Battalion Dickenson, Buchanan

3rd Battalion Wise, Scott, Lee

Eighth Brigade

1st Battalion Greensville, Brunswick

2nd Battalion Nottoway, Amelia

3rd Battalion Lunenburg, Mecklenburg

Ninth Brigade

1st Battalion Appomattox, Prince Edward

2nd Battalion Campbell, Charlotte

Tenth Brigade

1st Battalion Giles, Pulaski

2nd Battalion Carroll, Grayson

3rd Battalion Bland, Wythe

4th Battalion Tazewell, Smyth

Eleventh Brigade

1st Battalion Highland, Bath, Alleghany

2nd Battalion

Rockbridge, Amherst

3rd Battalion Nelson, Buckingham

Twelfth Brigade 1st Battalion

Loudoun, Fairfax

2nd Battalion Fauquier, Prince William

Thirteenth Brigade

1st Battalion Westmoreland, Northumberland

2nd Battalion Richmond, Lancaster

Fourteenth Brigade

1st Battalion Essex, Middlesex

2nd Battalion King and Queen, King William

3rd Battalion Gloucester, Mathews

Fifteenth Brigade

1st Battalion Sussex, Surry

2nd Battalion Portsmouth, Norfolk, VA Beach

3rd Battalion Suffolk, Chesapeake

4th Battalion Southampton, Isle of Wight

Sixteenth Brigade

1st Battalion Northampton, Accomack

one 1 First Brigade

1st Battalion Hanover, New Kent

2nd Battalion Henrico, Charles City

3rd Battalion Goochland, Powhatan

4th Battalion Chesterfield, Dinwiddie, Prince George

Zone 2 Second Brigade

1st Battalion James City, Williamsburg

2nd Battalion Newport News, Hampton

3rd Battalion York, Poquoson

Zone 3 Third Brigade

1st Battalion Stafford, Spotsylvania

2nd Battalion Carolina, King George

Zone 4 Fourth Brigade

1st Battalion Frederick, Clarke

2nd Battalion Shenandoah, Page

3rd Battalion Warren, Rappahannock

4th Battalion Madison, Culpeper, Orange

Zone 5 Fifth Brigade

1st Battalion

Rockingham, Greene

2nd Battalion August, Albemarle

3rd Battalion Louisa, Fluvanna

Zone 6 Sixth Brigade

1st Battalion Craig, Alleghany

2nd Battalion Roanoke, Botetourt

3rd Battalion Bedford, Franklin

4th Battalion Montgomery, Floyd

Zone 7 Seventh Brigade

1st Battalion Washington, Russell

2nd Battalion Dickenson, Buchanan

3rd Battalion Wise, Scott, Lee

Zone 8 Eighth Brigade

1st Battalion Greensville, Brunswick

2nd Battalion Nottoway, Amelia

3rd Battalion Lunenburg, Mecklenburg

Zone 9 Ninth Brigade

1st Battalion Appomattox, Prince Edward

2nd Battalion Campbell, Charlotte

Zone 10 Tenth Brigade

1st Battalion Giles, Pulaski

2nd Battalion Carroll, Grayson

3rd Battalion Bland, Wythe

4th Battalion Tazewell, Smyth

Zone 11 Eleventh Brigade

1st Battalion

Highland, Bath, Alleghany

2nd Battalion Rockbridge, Amherst

3rd Battalion Nelson, Buckingham

Zone 12 Twelfth Brigade 1st Battalion

Loudoun, Fairfax

2nd Battalion Fauquier, Prince William

Zone 13 Thirteenth Brigade

1st Battalion Westmoreland, Northumberland

2nd Battalion Richmond, Lancaster

Zone 14 Fourteenth Brigade

1st Battalion Essex, Middlesex

2nd Battalion King and Queen, King William

3rd Battalion Gloucester, Mathews

Zone 15 Fifteenth Brigade

1st Battalion Sussex, Surry

2nd Battalion Portsmouth, Norfolk, VA Beach

3rd Battalion Suffolk, Chesapeake

4th Battalion Southampton, Isle of Wight

Zone 16 Sixteenth Brigade

1st Battalion Northampton, Accomack

Brigade setup

Brigades will consist of a zone.

Battalion setup

Each battalion will consist of two counties.

Company setup

A company will consist of one county.

Platoon setup

Platoons will consist of 6 or more squads

Squad setup

Minimal, 2 fire teams, up to 6 teams = squad

Fire Team

Minimal of 4 members, maximum of 12 members.

Virginia Minutemen Militia rank Chart

RO Recruit (R); lowest rank. Beginner starting basic training.

ME1 Private (PVT); Has started level 1 basic training and passed level 0 and gun safety

rules and procedures.

ME2 Private (PV2); Individuals with minimum experience can start at this level.

ME3 Private First Class (PFC); Individuals have completed level 1 training and testing.

Mentors lower ranks in basic training and carries out orders to the best of their ability.

At this rank they also earn their minutemen patch and can sustain themselves for up to

12 hours unsupported in the field.

ME4 Specialist (SPC); The SPC is responsible for managing lower rank members in

training and requirements up to PFC training. Assists CPL in fire team training.

ME4 Corporal (CPL); Responsible for training a fire team. Cross trained in many areas of

each position of the fire team such and medic and radio operator. Can specialize in two

or more areas.

ME5 Sergeant (SGT); Base of the NCO class. The SGT commands a fire team of 4 to 12

minutemen. Considered the greatest impact on all the members of his fire team and

oversees them in their basic training and daily tasks. They are the examples the lower

ranks look up to and respect.

ME6 Staff Sergeant (SSG); Commands a squad, typically 2 to 4 fireteams. Responsible

for developing, maintaining and utilizing the members abilities of the minutemen

potential.

ME7 Sergeant First Class (SFC); Key assistant and adviser to the platoon leader. SFC

have the experience and ability to make quick, accurate decisions in the best interest of

Minutemen.

ME8 Master Sergeant (MSG); Principal NCO at the Battalion and Brigade level. Not

charged with all the leadership duties of 1SG but expected to dispatch leadership and

other duties with the same professionalism.

ME9 First Sergeant (1SG); Principal NCO and lifeblood of the company: the provider,

disciplinarian and counselor. Instructs other SGTs, advises the Commander and helps

train all instructors existing standards. Assists Officers at the company level.

ME10 Sergeant Major (SGM); SGM experience and ability are equal to the CSM, but

sphere of influence regarding leadership is generally limited to those directly under his

charge. Assists Officers at the Battalion level.

ME11 Command Sergeant Major (CSM); Functions without supervision. A CSM's

counsel is expected to be calm, settled and accurate with unflagging enthusiasm.

Supplies recommendations to the command and staff, carries of policies and standards

on the performance, training, appearance and conduct of listed personal. Assists

Officers and the Brigade level.

M12 Sergeant Major of the Army (SMA); There is only one SMA of the Virginia

Minutemen Militia. This rank is the epitome of what it means to be a Sergeant and

oversee all Non­Commissioned Officers. Servers as the senior enlisted advisor and

consultant to the Commander in Chief.

Virginia Minutemen Militia Warrant Officer Rank Chart

M01 Warrant Officer 1 (W01) ; Expert in certain technologies. Minutemen with this

rank serve under a warrant from the DIV. HQ. W01s are single track specialty officers,

experts and trainers who, by gaining progressive levels of expertise and leadership,

operates, maintains, administers and manages the Minutemen equipment, supports

activities or technical systems for their entire Civil Service. They must have passed the

basic training program.

MCW2 Chief Warrant Officer 2 (W02); Has received a commission from DIV HQ, thus

are direct representatives of V.M.M Division Headquarters. Have the authority of

Commission Officers, but in contrast WOs are specialists. They command detachments,

units, activities and vessels as well as lead, coach, train and counsel subordinates.

MCW3 Chief Warrant Officers 3 (W03); As leaders and technical experts, Chief Warrant

Officers provide valuable skills, guidance, and expertise to commanders and

organizations in their particular field.

MCW4 Chief Warrant Officer 4 (W04); Chief Warrant Officer remain single­specialty

Officers whose Civil Service track is oriented towards progressing within their field

rather than focusing on increased levels of command and staff duty position.

MCW 5 Chief Warrant Officer 5 (W04); The grades (CW2­CW5) are normally indicative of

the length of time a person has served as a Warrant Officer. The grades do not signify

differences in job duty.

Virginia Minutemen Officers Ranks

M01 Second Lieutenant (2LT); Typically the entry level rank for most Commissioned

Officers. Leads platoon size elements consisting of platoon SFC and two or more

squads.

M02 First Lieutenant (1LT); A first lieutenant with 18 to 24 months of service. Leads

more specialized weapons platoons and indirect fire computation center. As a senior

lieutenant, they are often selected to be the Executive Officer of a company sized unit.

M03 Captain (CPT); Commands and controls company sized units, together with a

principal NCO assistant. Instructs skills at service schools and training centers and is

often a Staff Officer at the battalion level.

M04 Major (MAJ); Serves as primary Staff Officer for brigade and task force command

regarding personnel, logistical and operational missions.

M05 Lieutenant Colonel (LTC); Typically commands battalion sized units, with a CSM as a

principal NCO assistant. May also be selected for brigade and task force Executive

Officer.

M06 Colonel (COL); Typically commands brigade sized units, with CSM as a principal

NCO assistant. Also found as the chief of divisional level staff agencies.

M07 Brigadier General (BG); Serves as Deputy Commander to the commanding general

for Virginia Minutemen divisions. Assists in overseeing the staff’s planning and

coordination of a mission.

M08 Major General (MG); Typically commands division sized units.

M09 Lieutenant General (LTG); Typically commands corps sized units.

M10 General (GEN); The senior level of Commissioned Officer. Commands all

operations of Virginia Minutemen Militia.

Basic Fire Team Organization

The fire team is the basic building block of the Virginia Minutemen Militia. Its creation

and training should be the first priority of any Virginia Minutemen militia unit after the

organization of the NCO staff. A Fire team may be as small as 4 men or as large as 12,

led by a Sergeant. A Squad consists of a minimum of 12 members and is usually

comprised of Four 4 to 12 man teams led by a Squad Leader Staff Sergeant. Squad

Leader: There is one squad leader per 4 Fireteams.

1. Fire Team Leader: The fire team leader carries out the orders issued to him by the

Squad Leader. He is responsible for the discipline, appearance, training, control, conduct

and welfare of his Team at all times, as well as the condition, care, and economical use

of its equipment. He is also responsible for the tactical employment, fire discipline, fire

control and maneuver of his Fire Team. He takes position where he can best carry out

orders of the Squad Leader; and observe and control the Fire Team.

2. Radio Operator: The team radio operator will carry and maintain the team’s radio

equipment. He will be trained in basic radio operating procedures including COMSEC

and Morse code. He will aid the Squad leader in keeping in contact with other units.

Each team leader will carry and be trained in the use of 2m 6m HD or GMRS or CB

depending on the unit for inter­unit communications.

3. Medic: This is the team member with the highest level of medical training. If possible

he should be trained as a First Responder or an EMT. The Medic is responsible for

overall field health and sanitation of the team. He must make sure the teams first aid

gear is in order at all times and is responsible for the team’s water supplies. He will carry

medical gear over and above that required for individuals. There should be 1 medic for

each 6 minutemen in each unit.

4. Heavy Gunner: This is the team member who will lay down suppressive fire and cover

likely avenues of approach. He will be equipped with a large number of high capacity

magazines and must have the ability to carry extra weight

5. Sharpshooter: This is the team member who is the most accurate shot of the group.

He will train other members in rifle marksmanship. The sharpshooter will pull point and

set the pace when on the march. He will provide team surveillance and recon. He will be

equipped with a MBR rifle and scope.

6. Sharpshooter spotter: This is the team member who is to assist the sharp shooter of

the group. He will train with members in rifle marksmanship. The spotter will be able to

pull point and set the pace when on the march. He will assist in providing team

surveillance and recon. He will be equipped with a MBR rifle and spotters scope.

TEAM DIVERSIFICATION

Since the team is the basic building block of the organization. They must also diversify by

emphasizing and perfecting certain skills that are unique to their primary team function. There

are three types of teams:

1­Command, 2­Security, 3­Support:

1 COMMAND TEAM

Is the leadership of the unit and provides planning, training and issues orders to be carried out

by the individual teams.

Initial Organizational Objectives

1. Establish a working relationship between other teams.

2. Establish local and regional Rapid Alert System (security, intelligence, and communications).

3. Organize logistical and administrative services.

4. Institute training program.

5. Recruitment

The Command Team's responsibilities include:

> Dissemination of constitutional principles and ideology to the rank and file.

> Development and dissemination of training material and methods to be used within the

individual teams.

> Development and security of tactical and strategic contingency plans for implementation by

the tactical teams.

> Coordination of the various teams.

> Development and operations of public relations within the community.

Command Team Organization and Duties:

S­1 Command Team

...2nd in Command of Team

...Disseminates written communication (orders) to subordinate units.

...Handles administrative duties

...Serves as Fire Team/ Squad Leader

S­2 Intelligence / Communications Team

...Maintains and administers the Rapid Alert System

...Supervises the counterintelligence program and operational security systems

...Maintains the security of encoding/decoding systems

...Supervises intelligence gathering activities for security, medical/rescue and supplies

...Analysis and reports intelligence information for security, medical/rescue and supplies

S­3 Operations / Training Team

...Enforces training standards

...Tailors training to specific missions for evaluations.

...Coordinates with the Intelligence Team and develops the Threat Assessment Folder

...Planning of operations under C/O's directions

S­4 Supply / Logistics Team

...Responsible for the acquisition and accountability of all supplies and material.

...Supervises all logistical support activities including: transport, evacuation, and medical, supply

service and management.

S­5 IT

...Responsibilities include net security protocols as well as server and web management.

S­6 Medic

...Responsibilities in all medic standards and certification.

...Responsible for all medic training and medic placement in a unit.

S­7 Recruiting

...Responsible for all interested in joining initial contact and app completion.

...Supervises all recruiting procedures and protocols.

*2 SECURITY TEAM: These are your Primary Forces. They provide security for all facilities,

conduct patrols, and provide defense in all locations.

*3 SUPPORT TEAMS (Supply and Logistics): The support teams consist of those who are unable

to be active Security duty. Their task is to provide whatever support is needed by the other

units.

* The Supply Team supports the company by procuring and delivering needed equipment

and provisions. They may also be used as messengers between the CO and the tactical units.

Supply Requirements:

Re­supply is a particularly important consideration for all mobile units and for all emergencies.

Each unit must plan and provide for storage and independent caches of the following: food,

fuel, clothing, shoes, shelter, medical equipment, defensive equipment and communications

equip. Purchase supplies in quantity and if possible coordinate purchases with other individuals

or groups for economy and standardization. Special attention is recommended for establishing

safe unit caches at strategic locations within the units AO. Particular emphasis should be placed

on the individual acquisition of a minimum of a one year supply of food and water for each

family member, and the secure storage of it.

*The Medical Team supports operations by setting up and maintaining an aid station to

receive and care for sick and wounded. There should be one member of each tactical team

trained as a Field Medic. Field medics must see to it that a preventative medicine program is

instituted and adhered to. Field sanitation and personal hygiene must be of paramount

importance.

Training:

All Fire team members must pass Level 1 line qualifications. They must also train and

cross­train in five basic skills. The primary skills being: Operations/ Intelligence, Engineering,

Marksmanship, Medical and Communications. The Fire Team Leader must be knowledgeable in

the first skill and Comm. At full strength a team should have two persons in each assignment.

Each team member will train in two assignments; a primary skill, and a secondary skill in case

the primary man is unavailable. Very important to remember that a first aid kit is always with

the unit at all times during any training exercise.

Meetings and Field Training Exercise FTX:

FTX and meetings are necessary and shall be called to achieve the overall goals of each unit.

Regular monthly meetings shall be conducted twice per month example: every 2nd Sat and 4th

Sat. Members must discipline themselves to schedule and set aside time each month for FTX

and Meetings for such purposes as field training exercises. Therefore, members who miss 3

consecutive meetings without a reasonable excuse must go before the V.M.M tribunal. While

it is intended that the Virginia Minutemen Militia intrude as little as possible in the lives of its

members, it is clear that individual members must be ready to meet periodically and to deploy

as need arises. It will be the objective of the Command Staff to infringe as little as possible on

the time of its members, recognizing the responsibilities of family and job. Remember Duty and

responsibility. Family comes first as it should. VMM is passing on knowledge to the members to

reduce cost of living and bring families together working toward preparation for all

emergencies. As a Large Family oriented Organization we bring people together to share ideas

and knowledge to have a Healthier Life, by canning, gardening, Coupon savings, bartering, etc.

It is Important the whole family Train in drills for Stormy weather, home invasion, strangers,

etc. The members of each Family trains and prepares for a safer, more secure community for

our children's future.

COMPANY ORGANIZATION:

COMPANY STRENGTH

During the Initial startup phase, the following should be considered the minimum size

necessary to form an effective small unit. Once established, the small unit can build upon its

core " NCO leadership" thru additional recruitment and training until the company attains full

operational strength.

Initial Start­up Phase­­15 Men

Command Staff­­5

Primary Forces Level 1—6

Support­­4

Skeleton Company=53 Men:

Command Staff – 5

Primary Forces – 24

Security­­ 12

Support­­12

­­­4 Medics

­­­4 Supply/Logistics

­­­4 Transport/Maintenance

Full Strength Company:=116 Men:

Command Staff—8

Primary Forces­­36__3 Squads

Security­­36__3

Squads Support­­24__2

Squads Reserve/Security­12__1 Squad (Level One Primary Forces whose duty is to protect

command staff, support units and base infrastructure)

Company Rank Structure: (For now but will change as we grow, example 2nd Lt will be

company CO's)

Company Commander 2nd Lieutenant

S­1 Executive Officer 1st Sergeant

S­2 Comm / Intel. Corporal to Staff Sergeant

S­3 Operations / Training Master Sergeant

S­4 Supply Master Sergeant

Squad Leaders...9_ Staff Sergeant

Fire Team Leaders...18_ Sergeant

Privates...81_ Private

*NOTE* in many if not most cases, a Virginia Minutemen Militia company will not be at full

strength; therefore some personnel will have to do double duty. Because individual members

may have to wear more than one hat; EVERY member must be trained in a Primary Skill and

cross­trained in more than one Secondary Skill.

MINUTEMEN EQUIPMENT

EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS: Recruit to Corporal

FIELD UNIFORM: BDU's. The exact type of uniform will be determined by the Brigade

commander. You also need a field jacket with a liner, extra heavy wool socks, a pair of gloves,

Combat boots and a boonie hat. State patch and Unit patches are to State Standards. See

uniform standards for placement of Patches.

MINIMUM FIELD EQUIPMENT

Recruit 1.

1. Weapon: Rifle, shotgun, sidearm. Optional and not required to have to start.

2. Load Bearing Tactical Vest consisting of: (Minimum)

......*Pistol belt

......*Radio pouch

......*Ammo pouches (2)

......*Canteen w/cover, cup and stove

......*Butt­pack

3. Field Equipment:

......*Cleaning kit for rifle

......*First aid kit

......*Poncho w/liner

…..*Shelter Tarps/Tent

…..*E Tool

.....* Baofeng radio

4 .Basic Survival Kit

......*Toilet paper

......*Water purification tabs

......*Waterproof matches

......*Sheath Knife

…..*Fire starter straws

Private 1.

Recruit gear

2. Field Equipment

......*Leatherman tool

......*Mini­maglite w/red filter and spare batteries

......*Compass (carry in BDU's)

......*Signal mirror (carry in BDU's)

......*Whistle (carry in BDU's)

......*Topo map of Operational Area (carry in BDU's)

......*Note pad w/2 pencils (carry in BDU's)

......*Two way ‘Ham hand held or equivalent w/headset

......*Mini binoculars 10X25

......*Camo face paint and/or face veil

......*6 fuel bars (carry in BDU's)

......*Magnesium fire starter (carry in BDU's)

......*Toilet paper in zip lock bag (carry in left BDU pants pocket)

......*First Aid Kit (carry in right front pants pocket)

......*Gas Mask and 3 filters, with hood and carry bag

3. Pack equipment

......*Waterproof bags

......*3 pair socks, 1 extra t­shirt

......*Jacket

......*1 OD mil. ground cloth

......*Poncho w/ liner

......*Sleeping pad/hammock

......*50 feet or more of # 550 cord

…..*100 ft 3/8 climbing rope w/swiss seat

......*Candle w/lighters and fire starter straws

......*Hygiene kit: soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, razor etc.

......*Three to seven days field rations Field Rations: MRE's or self­packed rations. Pre­pack

these items in zip­lock bags. Instant oatmeal, Instant Potatoes, pop­tarts, breakfast bars, dried

fruit, raisins, beef jerky, nutria­grain bars, Ramen noodles, cup­o­ soup, bouillon cubes, rice,

Instant coffee, cocoa, or drink mix. You need a minimum of 2000 calories to remain active on

your rations. Don’t cut yourself short.

Private First Class/Corporal

1. Recruit and Private gear

2. Rifle and 300 rounds of ammo in mags

3. AO specific Field Equipment:

......*AO specific sleeping bag (20 degrees or lower rating)

......*H20 bladder

......*Water filter device w/2 filters (PUR hiker)

......* AO specific cold or Hot weather gear

OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT:

Each team should have the following:

1 field deployable HF transceiver with field antenna (or better)

1 4 man camo tent Portable battery packs with a solar panel

1 Bionic Ear

1 Infrared heat detector

1 Night vision headset

Weapons and Ammunition:

Each member is required to provide and maintain his own weapons, stocks of ammunition and

deployment gear. Members are required to remain proficient in the maintenance and safe

operation of their weapon; and to have on hand at all times 300 rounds for the rifle and 100

rounds per sidearm. Lacking the depth, resources and resupply capabilities of a conventional

military unit; Virginia Minutemen Militia members are urged to acquire at least 2000 rounds of

ammunition and 12 magazines per rifle as well as a cleaning kit. Standardization in caliber and

weapons type within each unit is strongly encouraged. Only during properly supervised training

sessions will a member discharge his weapons. All members are expected to abide by all Rules

and Constitutional Laws.

CORE TRAINING STANDARDS

SKILL LEVEL ZERO: New Recruit

A full knowledge of Basic Firearm Safety: Pass all firearms safety courses must be

covered.

1. Be able to recite and explain the four firearm safety rules:

…..a. Rule ONE – ALL WEAPONS ARE TO BE UNLOADED AT ALL TIMES. UNLESS INSTRUCTED.

…..b. Rule TWO – NEVER LET THE MUZZLE COVER ANYTHING YOU ARE NOT WILLING TO

DESTROY.

…..c. Rule THREE – KEEP YOUR WEAPON SAFETY ON AND ALWAYS KEEP YOUR FINGER OUT

OF THE TRIGGER GUARD UNTIL YOUR SIGHTS ARE ON TARGET

….d. Rule FOUR – KNOW WHAT IS BEYOND TARGET.

….e. Rule FIVE ­ KNOW RULES 1, 2, 3, 4 BY HEART. SAFETY, SAFETY, SAFETY ALWAYS!

SKILL LEVEL ONE: Basic Individual Readiness This is basic training which all new

recruits are required to complete. Upon completion of Level 1 training the recruit will advance

to the rank of Private and will be considered an active line member of the unit. Private must be

prepared to deploy quickly and remain in the field unsupported for 12 hours. Refer to Training

matrix for All Tactical training stages.

1. Command and Organization Structure

2. Mobilization and Alert Readiness : Activation SOP

..a. Rapid Alert System / Alert levels

..b. Evacuation: Routes, Rally Points

3. Physical Fitness (Determined per individual).

4. Basic Marksmanship

..a. Must score Recruit or better on the Marksmanship Qualification Test.

..b. Must be able to load, clear malfunctions and field strip weapon for repair or cleaning.

5. Individual Movement Techniques

..a. Hasty defensive positions

..b. team formations.

6. Individual Camouflage

7. Basic Field Communications:

..a. Hand and Arm Signals

..b. Basic Radio Operating Procedures/Morse code

..c. COMSEC / SALUTE / SITREP

..d. Perform surveillance without the aid of electronic devices.

8. Basic First Aid/CPR Certification: Perform cert training

9. Basic Land Navigation.

10. Basic Emergency Preparedness.

11. Basic Survival Abilities.

SKILL LEVEL TWO:

Skill Level 2 is required to advance to the rank of Private First Class and to be considered

capable of performing Primary Forces missions. Private First Class must be prepared to deploy

quickly and remain in the field unsupported for 24 hours. He is a fully functional and deployable

minuteman soldier, capable of leading his squad and training others.

To meet Level 2 standards one must have mastered all Level 1 qualifications

and equipment plus:

Physical Fitness: Field march with all Level 2 gear 5 miles in 2 hours.

Marksmanship: 8 out of 10 in a 9" target at 200 yards.

Must have a thorough understanding of:

Troop leading procedures including the 5 paragraph OPORD, SALUTE, CARVER etc.

Small Unit Tactics

1. Immediate Action Drills

.....a. Move under direct fire

.....b. React to indirect fire

.....c. React to contact

.....d. Break contact

.....e. React to ambush, near or far

.....f. React to flares

2. Immediate Movement Techniques

.....a. Fireteam and Squad Wedge

.....b. File

.....c. Traveling, Traveling Overwatch and Bounding Overwatch

3. Perform Reconnaissance

4. Select and construct individual fighting positions

5. Set up Patrol Base camp

6. Cross danger areas

7. Immediate Land Navigation

.....a. Identify topographic symbols and features on a map

.....b. Determine a location on the ground by terrain association

.....c. Measure distance on a map

.....d. Orient a map to the ground by terrain association

.....e. Determine direction with and without a compass

8. Immediate Camouflage

.....a. Individual

.....b. Noise light and litter discipline

.....c. Field emplacements, or base camp

9. Emergency Preparedness Every Primary Forces member must maintain a 3 month supply of

the following and the knowledge to use it.

.....a. Water Storage / Purification

.....b. Field Hygiene / Sanitation

.....c. Food Storage

.....d. Medical Supplies

16. Immediate Survival Abilities

.....a. Identify wild foods in the A/O

.....b. Identify poisonous plants and snakes in the A/O

.....c. Locate and purify drinking water

.....d. Build a fire

.....e. Snare/trap wild game

......f. Locate, and construct a field expedient survival shelter.

SKILL LEVEL THREE:

Skill Level 3 is required to advance to the rank of Corporal and to be considered capable of

performing Primary Forces missions. Corporals must be prepared to deploy quickly and remain

in the field unsupported for 48 hours. He is a fully functional and deployable minuteman

soldier, capable of leading his squad and training others.

To meet Level 3 standards one must have mastered all Level 2 qualifications

and equipment plus:

Physical Fitness: Field march 10 mile w Level 3 gear in 8 hours.

Marksmanship: “Expert” score on Marksmanship Qualification Test

Must have a thorough understanding of:

Troop leading procedures including the 5 paragraph OPORD, SALUTE, CARVER etc.

Small Unit Tactics

1. Advanced Action Drills

.....a. Move under direct fire

.....b. React to indirect fire

.....c. React to contact

.....d. Break contact

.....e. React to ambush, near or far

.....f. React to flares

2. Advanced Movement Techniques

.....a. Fireteam and Squad Wedge

.....b. File

.....c. Traveling, Traveling Overwatch and Bounding Overwatch

3. Perform Reconnaissance

4. Select and construct individual fighting positions

5. Set up Patrol Base camp

6. Cross danger areas

7. Advanced Land Navigation

.....a. Identify topographic symbols and features on a map

.....b. Determine a location on the ground by terrain association.

.....c. Measure distance on a map

.....d. Orient a map to the ground by terrain association

.....e. Determine direction with and without a compass

7. Advanced Camouflage

.....a. Individual

.....b. Noise light and litter discipline

.....c. Field emplacements, or base camp

8. Emergency Preparedness Every Primary Forces member must maintain a 3 month

supply of the following and the knowledge to use it.

.....a. Water Storage / Purification

.....b. Field Hygiene / Sanitation

.....c. Food Storage

.....d. Medical Supplies

9. Advanced Survival Abilities

.....a. Identify wild foods in the A/O

.....b. Identify poisonous plants and snakes in the A/O

.....c. Locate and purify drinking water

.....d. Build a fire

.....e. Snare/trap wild game

......f. Locate, and construct a field expedient survival shelter.

SKILL LEVEL 4:

To progress to Skill Level 4, the Virginia Minutemen Militia soldier must have mastered all Level

3 qualifications. The Security Teams will have to master all skill levels to qualify. Primary duties

are to provide security for bases and checkpoints and must be prepared to deploy quickly and

remain in the field unsupported for 72 hours.

Promotions are based upon: Compliance, Participation, Motivation, Enthusiasm, Knowledge,

and Leadership Traits

*NOTE: Grade Modifiers* Modifiers are necessary to allow command to assign NCO leadership

to lead new recruits as they become available. Training of active members as NCOs capable of

leading at the squad level is the greatest force multiplier. Knowledge, ability and dedication are

the only valid criteria to assign rank within the militia. Rank modifiers are the only way to

determine if a militiaman is able to carry out a specific mission. The rank and the modifiers are

included in the individual training card and is the only information to be transferred to a roster.

0XX Unfit for front line combat ­ due to age (45+) or physical disability. But, has met all other

Level 1 and 2 requirements. This person is capable of operating in a support role such as

training, communications, medical, supply and logistics. In the case of military veterans; their

primary mission will be the training of others.

1XX Minimum physical fitness level ­ 2 mile Field march w/Level 1 gear in 30 minutes.

2XX Moderate physical fitness level ­ 3 miles field march w/Level 2 in 40 minutes.

3XX Excellent physical fitness level ­ 5 mile field march w Level 2 (72 hour) gear in 2 hours.

X1X Basic Marksman ­ “Recruit” score on Marksmanship Qualification Test

X2X Advanced Marksman ­ “Sharpshooter” score on Marksmanship Qualification Test

X3X Expert Marksman ­ “Expert” score on Marksmanship Qualification Test

X4X Designated Marksman (Sniper) ­ “Expert” score and meets DMR scoring on the MQT

XXA Qualified with 5.56

XXB " " 7.62x.39

XXC " " 7.62x.51 (308)

Other Note: Some members will hold more than one billet. Their rank will reflect the higher

billet.

Statewide Administrative Policy and Procedures

The Brigade CO's and NCO's will determine the State daily operational policy and procedures

are followed. State policies to be included for Brigade CO and NCO's will include, but are not

limited to:

1. Uniform Requirements

2. Equipment Requirements

3. Skill Qualification Subjects

4. Drill Standards

5. Drill Locations (area of operations)

6. Support Considerations for Drills (water, rations, etc)

7. Instructor Assignments

8. Drill Uniform and Equipment Requirements

9. Promotion Requirements

10. Promotions

11. Drill and Ceremonies

12. Attendance Policies

13. Call Procedures (Call tree Radio notification)

EVACUATION AND MOBILIZATION SOP

An evacuation may become necessary for many reasons; including natural or man­made

disasters, civil unrest, terrorism etc. If you wait until the last minute to evacuate; you will be

caught up in the masses of panic stricken People who don't have a clue what to do. There may

be rioting, looting and panic buying at the stores by the unprepared. Martial law will be

declared with curfews, gas and food rationing, checkpoints and roadblocks. Security Teams will

be established. You must per­plan for these events. You must have somewhere to retreat

Family to set up in advance and must have a Primary route as well as 2 secondary routes

planned. Always keep your gear packed and ready to go. Keep the gas tank full at all times and

have at least a 5 gallon can in reserve. Every vehicle must be equipped with a mobility kit.

Vehicle Mobility Kit:

2 Cans Fix A Flat plus a tire plug kit

1 Spare tire, jack and lug wrench

1 12 Volt compressor

1 Set of tire chains

1 Come along or winch

1 Chain saw

1 Each...axe / shovel

1 Bolt cutter

1 0 gallon gas can

1 oil filter, 5 quarts oil

1 spare fan belts, headlight, fuses

1 Set basic tools

1 Fire extinguisher

1 Spotlight

1 Flashlight and spare batteries

1 10 ­11 Meter SSB radio

1 200 channel scanner

EVAC ROUTES:

Prior reconnaissance is an absolute must. You will need a State Atlas and a USGS map of your

Area of Operations. You need to plan out 3 routes in advance. The primary route should be the

most direct possible. Avoid all interstates and major state highways. The alternate routes

should be back roads as far off the beaten path as possible. When selecting a route; look for all

choke points and possible ambush sites so that you won’t be surprised when the time comes.

Look for out of the way sites to per­deploy supplies along the way. Once you have selected your

routes; drive them night and day under various conditions. You must familiarize yourself with

these routes and come to know them like the back of your hand. You must know them well

enough to drive them without lights. Evacuating from your main supply depot which should be

hiding if at all possible for future pickup, isn't going to be all of your supplies. The rally points

should be stocked by all members of the unit. Security will be established in all AO during and

after evacuation.

Rally Point Protocol's

Rally points should be located in the rural areas and not within city or town boundaries. All

Members must provide a number of personal (Family and Friends) they will be bringing to the

RP. This information should be given to the Squad Leader and Company Commander. All

members are to bring essential items needed, such as medicine, food, blankets, etc for their

personal they bring.

Emergency preparedness list has the amount of supplies needed for each person listed.

Evacuation routes should be planned and tested for time and difficulty to travel often.

List of procedures to prepare for Rally Point.

• Have all Members List personal and equipment and supplies needed that they will bring

during a Rapid Alert. Give Copies to the Squad leader, Company Co. This should be done first to

design Rally Point.

• Establish Rally Point and Secondary Rally Point.

• Build and Prepare Rally Point with necessary equipment and supplies before needed.

• Plan multiple evacuation routes to your Rally Point for all members assigned to that position.

• Train and practice driving evacuation routes to RP. It should be understood that you want to

build according to how many people will occupy the Rally Point. Do not build for 12 and invite

50 it doesn't work. The Members personal list should give you an idea of how big and what area

you will need as well as a supply list, Then Double it. Security Teams will remain in evacuated

area during and after evacuation. Security Zones must be maintained.

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS

Home Supplies:

Emergencies such as natural or man­made disasters, a declaration of martial law, a terrorist

event or foreign invasion etc. could disrupt your ability to travel, procure food, medical and fuel

supplies and disrupt communications and utility services. Without proper planning for these

events and the acquisition and storage of essential supplies you will be at the mercy of the

elements or the Criminal. It is imperative that EVERY militia member and his family prepare to

survive totally off the grid with no outside assistance for periods of up to a year. Do not be

discouraged or overwhelmed by this idea. Begin by cutting expenses. Make a bare bones

budget and stick to it. Sell off unnecessary items and junk for extra cash. Build a nest egg of

hard currency. You should maintain at least a 3 month emergency cash reserve to cover ALL

living expenses. Plant a garden and can food. Buy staples in bulk. Go for group purchases. Build

your essential supplies one step at a time. Start with the basic home supplies; most of which

you probably already have scattered around the house. Organize these supplies in a storage

room or area. Make sure each family member has a 72 hour Bug Out Bag packed and ready in

case you have to evacuate in a hurry. Keep a 72 hour emergency kit packed in each vehicle and

be sure all vehicles gas tanks are kept full at all times Keep spare 5 gallon cans for each vehicle.

BASIC EMERGENCY SUPPLY LIST:(suggested, some items can be exchanged for newer

products)

1 Dual fuel Coleman stove

1 Dual fuel lantern with spare mantles and pump

6 Gallons stove fuel

25 Gallons kerosene

2 kerosene lanterns or lamps with spare wicks

1 kerosene heater or wood stove

25 kitchen matches/Lighters

1 or more large ABC fire extinguishers

1 non electric can opener

2 large plastic wash pans

1 cast iron skillet

1 large pot with lid and handle

1 butcher knife / meat cleaver

buckets and 1 washtub

1 Case (24 rolls) toilet paper

24 Bars of antibacterial soap

1 Windup clock

1 Thermometer / Barometer

1 sleeping bag per person / Hammock

1 belt knife per person

1 good flashlight and spare batteries per person

1­2 boxes of large heavy duty garbage bags

1 roll 4 mil. Plastic

several rolls duct tape and electrical tape

6 gallon unscented bleach

2 gallon white vinegar

Several large rat traps, steel traps, snares etc.

Fishing pole, hooks, sinkers etc

1 large roll barb wire

1 Scanner

1 Shortwave or Ham radio

1 Sideband CB 1 Deep cycle marine battery / Charge controller / 800 Watt Inverter

1 30 watt solar panel

BASIC TOOL KIT

...hammer, pliers, screwdrivers, crescent and pipe wrenches, hand saw and drill, crowbar,

shovel, pick mattock, axe, maul and wedge, chainsaw w/spare chain, plug and 12 cans of oil

WATER SUPPLY:

Water is THE most essential resource everyone must have. Without it, you can die in 3 ­ 5

days. If it's contaminated it can cause many deadly diseases such as diarrhea, cholera,

dysentery etc. During a disaster water from public utilities may be contaminated or unavailable.

You must be prepared to decontaminate whatever water source is on hand. Furthermore you

must be able to store adequate supplies of water for drinking, cooking and washing. Many

books claim 1­2 gallons per person per day is adequate; but, 5 gallons per person per day is

more realistic.

Storage:

The best solution to your water supply needs is a well or spring that has been tested. If that

isn't available you should build a large cistern. If a well is over 25 feet deep a hand pump will

not work, so you might need to consider a solar powered pump. If the cistern is built high

enough it will provide enough pressure to "gravity flow" into your homes existing plumbing. 30

and 50 gal plastic drums are good storage containers for more permanent locations as well as

underground.

Decontamination:

Every home water supply should include a filtration system designed to remove chemicals,

sediment etc. Water can be decontaminated by boiling for 5 minutes. This will kill all bacteria,

viruses or parasites that may be present from animal or human waste. Add 1 minute for every

1000 feet above sea level. Iodine will also work, but isn't as effective as boiling; especially if the

water is cloudy. One ounce of 2 % tincture iodine is enough to treat 160 gallons of water. Use 4

drops per quart for clear and 8 drops per quart for cloudy water. Let set for 1 hour. Do not use

if you have thyroid problems or are pregnant. Chlorine Bleach is next in order of effectiveness.

It will not kill certain viruses such as Hepatitis A or certain parasites. Before using, be sure the

bleach contains no other additives such as perfumes...it must be plain bleach. Water treated

with chlorine will store about 6 months. Use 12 drops per quart and wait 1 hour before use.

Food Storage:

Don't try to purchase everything at once. Start out with a 15 day food supply for all family

members; then work up to 30 days, 90 days etc. Every week, buy a little extra as your budget

allows. This list is merely a suggestion of the bare bones basics. Add to it or Modify it to suit

your needs and tastes. Store all items in food grade buckets, in a cool dry dark place, add bay

leaves and a desiccant then seal bucket with duct tape.

Item:___________________Shelf Life:

50 pounds dried beans.............Indefinite

50 pounds cornmeal......................."

50 pounds oats..............................."

50 pounds sugar............................."

50 pounds salt................................"

25 pounds instant potatoes............."

25 pounds rice................................"

10 pounds coffee............................"

3 pounds each pepper, baking soda, baking powder, yeast Honey..................."

4 pounds Peanut butter................."

Tea................................................"

60 packs of Kool Aid........................."

100 packs Ramen noodles, instant soup etc. Beef / Chicken bouillon cubes Canned

vegetables......................2­3 years

Canned meat................................1 year

Canned juice...............................5­1 year

1 gallon white vinegar................indefinite

5 gallon olive oil

Tactics

"Always mystify. Mislead and surprise the enemy if possible. And when you strike and

overcome him, never let up in pursuit as long as your men have strength to follow, for an army

routed, if hotly pursued, becomes panic stricken, and can then be destroyed by half their

number." ...never fight against heavy odds, if by any possible maneuvering you can hurl your

own forces on only a part, and that the weakest part, of your enemy and crush it. Such tactics

will win every time, and a small army may thus destroy a large one in detail, and repeated

victory will make it invincible." Thomas J. Jackson Only after aggression against you: Attack the

enemy at his weakest points. Attack only when you have a 95% probability of victory. Strike

when and where least expected. Never set patterns. Never hesitate to use your most powerful

weapons. Always outgun the enemy. Always fight on ground of your own choosing. Limit the

length of enemy contact to 3 minutes. Never voluntarily take the defensive position. Never

allow the enemy freedom of movement or to make decisions. Do not allow the enemy to bring

his weapons to bear. Always prepare backup forces and vehicles. Allow for unforeseen

problems. Never waste personnel or resources.

Communications Structure VMM

Conventional Communications (Grid Up Situation): Cell Phone, Email, Forum , Facebook

1. Facebook: While convenient, Facebook is a very unsecure way of communication, and

OPSEC/COMSEC applies to any traffic passed through it. This should only be used for casual

conversation and no official business for VMM with the exception of recruiting.

2. Forum: While the communications grid is functioning, every member has access to this, and

is expected to use it.

3. Fire Teams: Each fire team member should have phone number and email address of every

member of their fire team. Fire team leader is responsible for accountability of his team in the

event of a heightened alert or call tree implementation

4. Squad: Squad leader should have phone number and email address of every member of

their squad. Fire team leaders should have phone number and email address of every other fire

team leader, as well as the squad leader. Squad leaders should have phone number and email

address for every other squad leader in their Company. Squad leader is responsible for

accountability of every member of their squad. If fire team leaders are in place, this should take

nothing more than the fire team leaders reporting to the squad leader.

5. Company: Company CO, XO, and Communications section should have phone number and

email address for every member of their company, as well as the communication sections of

every other company in their Brigade. Squad leaders will report to their company commander

for accountability. It is the communications Company Communication section’s job to be able

to contact any member of the company, the communications section of the other companies in

the Brigade, as well as their Brigade HQ, at any given time. A company communications section

can also function as the Brigade level communications section if the Brigade HQ so chooses.

6. Brigade: Brigade CO, XO, and personnel should have phone number and email address for

every member of their Brigade, as well as phone number and email address for communication

section of every brigade in the state. Company Commanders will report to the Brigade

commander for accountability. It is the Brigade Communications section’s job to be able to

contact any member of the Brigade, the communication sections of every other Brigade, as well as VMM HQ, at any given time. A Brigade communications section can function as the

Division/State level communications section if VMM HQ so chooses.

7. Division/State: Division communications personnel should have phone number and email

address for every Brigade and Company level HQ and communications section. It is their job to

be able to contact the HQ and communications section of every Brigade and Company in the

state.

Communications Structure VMM

Unconventional Communications (Grid Down Situation): Two­way Radio, CB, Ham Radio

**In a grid down situation, the communications structure will remain the same, it is only the

methods of communication that will change.

1. Fire Team: Each member of the fire team should have a handheld radio to communicate.

The required radio for this is the Baofeng UV­5R, it can communicate both on Ham frequencies

as well as traditional handheld two­way radio frequencies. A separate set of two­way radios is

also authorized for use within a fire team. All radios should be standard throughout a fire team.

2. Squad: Squads will follow the same radio equipment standards as the fire team level, with

one exception. The required radio is the Baofeng UV­5R, but two­way radios do not have to

match throughout multiple fireteams.

3. Company: The Company level Communications section will be required to have the

following equipment and capabilities.

Equipment:

­Two­way radios

­Baofeng UV­5R

­A higher wattage VHF Ham radio to communicate from company to company and up to their

Brigade (suggested radio ­ Yaesu FT­2900R)

Capabilities:

­Communicate with all members of their company

­Communicate with all other companies in the brigade

­Communicate with brigade level communications section

4. Brigade: The Brigade level Communications section will be required to have the following

equipment and capabilities.

Equipment:

­Two­way radios

­Baofeng UV­5R

­A higher wattage VHF Ham radio to communicate from Brigade to Brigade through the use of

repeaters (suggested radio – Yaesu FT­2900R)

­an HF Ham radio to communicate from Brigade to Brigade, and to state HQ (suggested radio –

Yaesu FT­450D)

5. State/Division: The state level communications section will follow the requirements of the

Brigade level communications section.

**Note: Due to the exceptional cost of an HF radio transceiver, the acquisition of said radios

should be considered and end­state goal, and will not be immediately required. All other radio

systems will be required and used on a regular basis for VMM communications.

Alert Levels

These "alerts" usually come with no confirmation or follow up; meanwhile everyone runs

around for 2 days trying to find out what is going on. Only State Commanding Officers or State

Communications Officers should issue a Statewide alert. Local groups should maintain contact

with these officers and issue sitreps (Situation Report) as necessary up the chain of command

to them. Only upon double­confirmation and a decision by the State C/O, should local sitreps

be passed on or a State wide alert issued. A standardized SOP or Protocol for Sitreps and Alert

Levels should be adopted.

ALERT LEVELS:

Level 1 "RED" Highest alert rating. Incident In Progress: Statewide Comm. Network in

operation and monitored 24/7. Local and State Nets activated. Emergency Deployment Plan

activated and all units mobilized.

Level 2 "Orange” Credible Threat: Rapid Alert System activated and all Local, State and

Nationwide nets in "open mode" operation 24/7. All units at preassigned locations and awaiting

further orders.

Level 3 Amber: All equipment packed and ready to go. All members stay in daily contact with

Team Leaders via the Local Radio Network. Local Nets make weekly contact with the State Net.

Monitor scanners on network. Gather food and supplies needed. Rally point and evac routes

established.

Level 4 Green: All equipment available. Members maintain standard contact with Team

Leaders through the weekly Local Radio Net.

Level 5 Blue...All members monitor Comm. for developing situations.

Call Tree

Procedure

Call Tree S.O.P.

Summary:

1. C/O notifies Team Leaders

2. Team Leaders notify team members

3. Team Leaders report status back to

4. C/O Notifies upper command with sitrep.

Detailed Procedure:

1. Notify Team Leaders: The decision to activate the Call tree is made by the C/O, X/O or other

Command Staff. They will contact the Co and advise them of:

a. THE NATURE OF THE EMERGENCY

b. Any special instructions

c. The telephone number and or frequency where TL's can report back the status of their teams

to the C/O. If any TL's can't be reached backups will be called.

2. Notify Team Leader Members:

a. Each Team Leader will then notify all the individual members of his team; advising them of:

b. The nature of the emergency

c. Any special instructions

Uniform Standards

Standard uniform issue for VMM consists of woodland Marpat BDU's, this will include boonie

hat and coyote tan combat boots and Helmet.

Plain black or olive drab t­shirt. Spring and summer operations, cuffs will be tucked up on

blouse. This will be the standard uniform for all operations unless operations require different

color/pattern of uniforms to consist of Black and urban. The items can be sewn onto blouses

will consist of Virginia flag, name tape, unit patch and state patch, and name tape of VMM and

rank.

NO off the wall "tacti­cool" patches such as spider monkey/ trunk monkey or other militia

units patches during operations and or public events while wearing this uniform.

WORKING AND UTILITY UNIFORMS 1.1. Digital Woodland Utilities Utility uniforms are specifically designed to be worn in a field or training environment. Field uniform wear is generally restricted to FTX with a combat oriented exercise or at the Area Commander’s digression. All other times the Civilian Working uniform will be worn. DWU’s will not be worn in public without permission of the Commander, except mandatory stops to and from an FTX. Do not wear field uniforms to eat in restaurants or at establishments that operate primarily to serve alcohol. Do not starch or hot press shoulder patches. Females may wear the male version of any of the field uniforms. 1.1.1. Men’s and Women’s Battle Dress Uniform 1.1.1.1. Shirt (Long Sleeve). Cotton and nylon twill or rip­stop cotton; single­breasted with four bellow pockets with flaps; straight­cut bottom sleeve tabs, and side body panels with or without take­up tabs. Only the Woodland Green Digital camouflage pattern is authorized. Long sleeves may be rolled up; if rolled up, sleeve material must match shirt and will touch or come within one inch of forearms when arm is bent at a 90­degree angle. BDU shirt may be removed in the immediate work area. A tan for officers and warrant officers, and green crew neck T­shirt will be worn. 1.1.1.2. Rank Insignia.

1.1.1.2.1. Officer Rank Insignia. Officers will wear embroidered rank insignia on Digital Woodland cloth or pin on (Subdued or Non­Subdued). General Officer rank will be centered, perpendicular to, and begin one inch from the bottom of the collar. General officers will wear 1­inch stars; General Officers unable to wear 1­inch stars will wear ¾­inch stars. Colonel rank will be centered, perpendicular to, and one inch from the bottom of the collar and the eagles will face forward. Lieutenant Colonel and Major rank will be centered one inch from the bottom of the collar with the stem parallel to the ground and pointing away from the wearer‘s neck. The long end of the Warrant Officer, Lieutenant and Captain bars will be centered one inch from the bottom of the collar.

1.1.1.2.1.1. Cover Insignia When wearing the BDU cap, officers wear rank insignia of embroidered rank insignia on Digital Woodland cloth centered on the front of the cap. 1.1.1.2.2. NCO Rank Insignia NCOs wear metal subdued chevrons on both sides of the collar. Insignia is one inch from and parallel to the front of the collar and centered. 1.1.1.3.1. Nametapes will be in black thread on digital woodland cloth. The nametapes will be sewn immediately above the upper BDU coat pockets. Fold tapes underneath to match pocket width. The “Minuteman Militia” nametape will be worn above the upper BDU pocket on the wearer’s left. The last name nametape will be worn above the upper BDU pocket on the wearer’s right. 1.1.1.3.2. Left Sleeve. One Subdued color, VMM patch may be sewn to the coat on the left sleeve ½ inch below the shoulder seam. When the sleeve is creased during pressing, the patch edge shall be positioned along the forward facing side of the sleeve crease; patches shall not be folded over the top of a crease . 1.1.1.3.3. Right Sleeve. One Subdued color , Virginia State Flag may be sewn to the coat on the right sleeve ½ inch below the shoulder seam and centered. When the sleeve is creased during pressing, the patch edge shall be positioned along the forward facing side of the sleeve crease; patches shall not be folded over the top of a crease.

1.1.1.3.4. Right Breast Pocket. One full or subdued color Area/ Unit patch may be sewn to the shirt centered on the lower left portion of the left breast pocket between left and right edges and bottom of flap and pocket of BDU shirt. 5.1.1.3.5. Left Breast Pocket. One full color or subdued specialty unit patch, sewn to the shirt centered on the lower portion of the right breast pocket between left and right edges and bottom of flap and pocket of BDU shirt. 1.1.1.4. T­Shirt. A Tan short or long sleeved t­shirt will be worn under the BDU shirt by Officers and Warrant, Green by Enlisted. Unit commanders may prescribe unit designation emblems, subject to the approval of the commander, not to exceed 5 inches in diameter, in cloth or silk screen, worn on the left side of chest. Neither unit designation emblems nor commercial logos will be visible when wearing the BDU coat (shirt). Black turtlenecks may also be authorized; thermal undergarments may be black, green, brown, or sand colored and are authorized for wear as weather conditions warrant. T­shirts and turtlenecks will not have pockets and all must be tucked into the trousers. Sleeves of long sleeved t­shirts will not be visible if BDU shirt cuffs are rolled up. 1.1.1.5. Trousers. Cotton and nylon twill or rip stop cotton camouflage pattern (digital woodland) with button front closure, strap ankle adjustment, and six pockets. Material of shirt and trousers must match. Blouse trousers over combat boots. Tucking the BDU trousers into the boot is optional. Whether tucked in

or bloused, the trouser must be evenly bloused (gathered in and draped loosely) over the top of the combat boot and must present a bloused appearance. Material of shirt and trousers must match.

1.1.1.6. Belt and Buckle. Tan, green or black, woven cotton web, solid or woven elastic belt with black metal tip end and plain (open faced) black buckle. Black tip may extend up to one inch beyond the buckle, facing to the wearer’s left (men) or facing wearer’s right or left (women). A black, tan or green, one­piece rigger style, nylon, web belt (1 ¾ inch wide) may be worn. 1.1.1.7. Footwear. Black, tan, or green socks and tan rough put combat boots are mandatory with this uniform. Socks should not be visible when boots are bloused.

1.1.1.8. Headgear. Headgear. Wear of headgear is mandatory. Woodland Digital BDU (Non 8­point USN/USMC style) is the standard headgear with a Nametape velcroed on the rear of the cover. Black Beret for combat arms instructors with Virginia State Flag shield style flash. Coyote tan fleece watch cap or Coyote tan “Contractor” style ball cap with subdued VA State Flag on the front and nametape on the rear.

1.1.1.9. Outer garments. Gortex BDU Jacket and Black, Green, and Tan Fleece jacket may be worn with this uniform. All other jackets subject to Unit Commander approval 1.1.1.10. Cold Weather Accessories Gloves (black ,tan or sage green), scarf and earmuffs may be worn when wearing authorized outer garments (Exception: gloves worn solely with BDUs). With the exception of functional items, cold weather accessories are only worn while outdoors. 2.3. Jewelry, Eyewear, Electronic Devices, Bags, Backpacks, Cold Weather and Other Accessories.

2.3.1. Digital Woodland Utilities Uniform Standards 2.3.1.1. Jewelry will be plain and conservative (moderate, being within reasonable limits; not excessive or extreme) as determined by the local commander. 2.3.1.1.1. Earrings. Males may not wear earrings. Females may wear small (not exceeding 6 mm in diameter) spherical, conservative (moderate, being within reasonable limits; not excessive or extreme) round white diamond, gold, white pearl, or silver earrings as a set with any uniform combination. If member has multiple holes, only one set of earrings are authorized to be worn in uniform and will be worn in the lower

earlobes. Earrings will match and fit tightly without extending below the earlobe unless the piece extending is the connecting band on clip earrings. 2.3.1.1.2. Bracelets. Ankle bracelets are not authorized. Members may wear one bracelet around their wrist. If worn, the bracelet will be conservative (moderate, being within reasonable limits; not excessive or extreme) (which is defined as plain, not drawing attention or faddish) in design, no wider than ½ inch, tan, green, or black in color, and will not have any inappropriate pictures or writing. Medical alert/identification bracelets are authorized; however, if worn, they will be conservative (moderate, being within reasonable limits; not excessive or extreme) (which is defined as plain, not drawing inappropriate attention or faddish). Bracelets espousing support for cause, philosophy, individual or group are authorized provided they are in a color complimentary to the uniform. (Exception: Traditional metal POW/MIA/KIA bracelets, which come in colors besides silver, bronze, or gold, remain authorized). 2.3.1.1.3. Watches. Must be conservative and only one can be worn around the wrist while in uniform. Conservative examples (not all­inclusive) are solid color black, brown, silver or gold. Prohibited examples are diamond covered, neon, bright colors, and bands that exceed 1­inch width. 2.3.1.1.4. Rings. Members may wear a total of no more than three rings; wedding sets count as one ring when worn as a set. Rings will be worn at the base of the finger, and will not be worn on the thumb. 2.3.1.1.5. Necklaces. Will not be visible at any time. If worn, will be concealed under a collar or undershirt. 2.3.1.2. Eyeglasses/Sunglasses/Contact Lenses. Will be worn in the manner for which they are made. Eyeglasses and sunglasses will not be worn around the neck or on top/back of head or exposed hanging on the uniform. 2.3.1.2.1. Eyeglasses and sunglasses may have conservative ornamentation on nonprescription sunglasses or eyeglasses, frames may be black or brown material or gold or silver wire. Brand name glasses may be worn with small logo on frames or lenses. Logo must be same color as frames or lenses. Conservative wrap­around sunglasses may be worn. Conservative, clear, slightly tinted or photosensitive lenses are authorized. 2.3.1.2.2. Faddish styles and mirrored lenses are prohibited. Sunglasses (to include darkened photosensitive lenses) are not authorized in formation. Exception: Sunglasses are not authorized in formation, unless for medical reasons, e.g., PRK/Lasik surgery. 2.3.1.2.3. Contact Lenses. Contact lenses will be natural looking in shape and design. They will be clear in color and not change the color of the member‘s natural eye color (slight blue tinting for safety purposes is authorized). 2.3.1.3. Handheld Electronic Devices. Handheld electronic devices are small electronic

equipment such as cellular phones (personal or official), MP3 or similar players, radio, or hands­ free devices (e.g. Bluetooth), but does not include CAP­issued handheld radios. Bluetooth). Handheld electronic devices, if worn on the belt/waistband, or clipped to a purse will be plain black, silver, dark blue, or gray. Handheld electronic devices that are not worn on the belt/waistband/or clipped to a purse can be any color. Holster and other storage devices used to carry handheld electronic devices will be plain black, tan, green or gray. One handheld electronic device may be attached to a belt/waistband on either side or clipped to a purse or vest. 2.3.1.3.1. Wear/use of an earpiece, any blue tooth technology or headphones, while in uniform, indoors or outdoors, is prohibited, unless specifically authorized for the execution of official duties. Exception: Headphones and earphones (IPod, MP3 type players, etc.) are authorized during air travel. Use of a hands­free device is authorized while in uniform operating a motor vehicle if local policy permits. 2.3.1.3.2. While walking in uniform use of personal electronic media devices, including earpieces, speakerphones or text messaging is limited to emergencies or when official notifications are necessary. Military customs and courtesies take precedence. 2.3.1.4. Attaché Cases/Gym Bags/Back Packs/Handbags/Clutch­style Purses . 2.3.1.4.1. Attaché Cases. Attaché cases will be solid ­black in color and carried in the left hand. Small logos are authorized; however, the logo must be the same color. 2.3.1.4.2. Gym Bags. Gym bags will be solid tan, green or black in color with matching stitching and carried in the left hand. Small logos are authorized. 2.3.1.4.3. Back Packs. Black, tan, green and digital woodland backpacks may be worn with any uniform combination. Small logos are authorized. Members may wear a backpack on the left shoulder or both shoulders (not to interfere with rendering the proper salute). Backpacks will not have ornamentation, a high ­gloss, designs, or hanging/dangling objects. Small gold or silver clasp authorized, but chains are not authorized. Full color and subdued military, patriotic, and emergency services patches authorized 2.3.1.4.4. Handbags. Handbags for all uniform combinations will be solid black leather or vinyl without ornamentation, with or without plain fold­over flap, with or without single­placed silver or gold­colored clasp, with black stitching only. Handbags may have up to two adjustable shoulder straps with or without buckles on the straps. Handbags will not exceed 13(W) x 9(H) x 4 ½ in bulk. 2.3.1.4.5. Clutch­ Style Purses. Clutch­style purses for all uniform combinations will be plain black smooth or scotch­grain leather, patent leather, high­gloss or manmade material without ornamentation, with black stitching only. Clutch­style purses will be no larger than 6 ½ (H) x 11(W) inches or no smaller than 5(H) x 9(W) inches. Clutch­style purses will have a concealed closure and may have a wrist strap. 2.3.1.5.

Umbrellas . Umbrellas will be plain, solid colored black and carried in the left hand. 2.3.1.6. Religious Apparel. Members may wear certain visible items of religious apparel while in uniform. Religious apparel is defined as articles of clothing or dress that are part of the doctrine or traditional observance of the religious faith practiced by the member. Hair and grooming practices are not included in the meaning of religious apparel. Jewelry of a religious nature must conform to standards set forth in this regulation for wear of non­religious jewelry. Head coverings must be plain tan, green or black without adornment. In addition, they may be worn underneath military headgear if they do not interfere with the proper fit or appearance of the headgear. For example, Jewish yarmulkes meet this requirement if they do not exceed 6 inches in diameter.

VMM Battle Dress Uniform (BDU)

During FTX's relaxed grooming standards will be in play. During Public Operations, uniform will

consist polo and tactical pants.

Fall and winter time operations uniform can consist of woodland BDU with winter camo

pullover, unless otherwise stated in operational order (OP order).

With weapons and uniforms, strips of cloth cut/ripped and secured to weapons and uniforms

helps break up the outline and general shape of you and your weapon. The human eye

recognizes the shape of another human being very quickly, so if you break up your out line from

all angles, you will be harder to notice. During winter op's, dress in layer. NO COTTON.

Remember the old saying, "with old man winter cotton kills." Cotton absorbs water quickly and

will in turn keep you cold and can cause you to suffer the effects of hypothermia and frostbite

faster than any other material. If you need a natural fiber, wear wool. Even when wet, wool has

50 times the insulating capability than cotton does. Under armor is preferred as a base layer. It

wicks moisture away from your skin and also helps to create a dead air layer that will keep you

warmer, just like the insulation in the walls of your home.

Also, plenty of changes of socks, again, moisture wicking synthetic fibers if possible, if you

cannot find them, purchase wool socks. Along with the socks, purchase and maintain a pair of

winter boots. They will keep your feet fire warm and bone dry. Eye protection during winter ops

is EXTREMELY important. You can suffer from snow blindness in a matter of seconds/minutes

without it. You will either need a pair of shaded goggles or at the minimum, sunglasses. NON

reflective/colored. Yellow /red/green tinted lenses will work sufficiently as the color is easier on

the eyes but also easier for someone else to notice. Goggles will also keep your eyes from

tearing up during winter winds.

Grooming Standards

Relaxed and or modified grooming standards are as follows. Long hair, beards, mustaches,

goatees, five O'clock shadows, civilian clothing, piercing, jewelry, various head wear, shoes,

shorts etc. Anything that makes you blend in with the rest of society. You want to be able to

blend in with the laborers all the way up to professional position types of dress. No better way

to hide than in the open. Standard grooming practices, high and tight. All hair will be kept well

groomed, not messy, no bed­head. Hair is allowed to touch ears and collars during public

service and events.. Try to keep your hair as short as possible as hair can be used against you in

a hand to hand situation. During standard grooming practices on FTX's no jewelry will be worn

unless it is approved dog tags, medical alert bracelets/necklaces that apply need to be worn. All

must be silenced, either tape, band aids, rubber bands, etc can be used. During operations, no

jewelry will be worn except for dog tags. Your dog tags will have the following, name, SS

number, blood type, town, state.

Disciplinary Actions and Board of Inquiries

Delivery of offenders to civil authorities:

If you do anything illegal by criminal standards as defined by local, state and or federal

Constitutional laws and are arrested because of said actions you will be suspended from VMM

activities. We are a Republic, a nation of Laws. Knowledge of or speaking of committing such

crimes, not limited to murder, kidnapping, assault, and felonious actions, talk of government

overthrow or killing any public officials, state or federal, law enforcement, you will be asked to

clarify comments.

DO NOT EVER MENTION anything you know that may be illegal within this group. If you do, we

will hold accountable. Education may be open on the internet, but, you are a member of

Virginia Minutemen Militia and you will operate within the boundaries of the law set forth by

state and US Constitution. We are here to defend and protect the constitution, not break it.

Communication amongst members is encouraged; this by all means includes checking in on

our website WEEKLY. This allows us to know that your existence is valid. If you cannot or do not

have access to a computer, use a phone, smoke signal, whatever. Contact your CO. Doing so

lets us know you are alive, that you are still within unit guidelines that you are still with the

unit, PERIOD.

1. First time offense for not checking in will result in a warning which will go into your personal

jacket.

2. Second offense for not checking in will result in a drop in rank/privileges.

3. Third offense will result in you being suspended from the group pending a hearing.

If you wish to remain in the group, you will be required to submit an appeal to your Company

commander. A Militia tribunal will then take effect; you will state your case to the tribunal of

Local commanders and Brigade commanders. If you choose to do so, submit an appeal, you

may ask one of your peers to represent you in your defense. You will make your argument

before the board of inquiry, from their, decision will be made by brigade and headquarter level

and will determine whether or not you will remain in VMM or be removed.

If you remain, a punishment will be determined, the tribunal will decide whether or not you

are dropped in rank, suspended from FTX's or double training standards, extended fire watches,

chow hall duty, etc.

Judgment will be decided by the three, if it is unanimous that you be removed, all privileges

and membership is removed effective immediately. If it is a 2 to 1 decision against, disciplinary

action will remain in place and you will remain under a probationary period to be determined

by the tribunal. If judgment cannot be reached amongst the tribunal, decision is forthwith

handed over to division command and from there it will be decided whether or not you stay or

go.

The following actions will be called into effect also, speaking without being spoken to or

called upon, if command level brigade battalion or division is teaching and you want to interject

or add something bring it before your commander first for approval. Do not interrupt the

classes, if you need additional help, help will be given afterwards if you still do not completely

understand. Please do not hold up the class so to speak.

Speaking out of turn or not being recognized by the instructor during training is rude. Please

extend all courtesy during said instructions. Personal opinions, etc should be written down and

may be brought up near or at the end of the instruction session. If you wait, your questions

maybe end up being answered for you.

Dealing with the public, unless you are qualified under operator guidelines in dealing with the

public do not speak out your opinion. Opinions may be taken and manipulated. All questions

regarding the militia will be referred to battalion and brigade commanders. VMM website

information will not be given out to non­members of VMM. If you have someone who is

interested in joining VMM, give the individual the Recruiter's email for contact. All applications

for membership into VMM are to be reviewed and decided upon by Commanders and NCO's.

Minutemen and Recruits do not have clearance nor authority to approve anyone for

membership into VMM.

Any violation to this rule, first offense is written warning, second offense to be determined

by tribunal. We understand that many folks are patriotic and want to help. But many want to

join merely because they think it is "COOL". We are not looking for armchair commandos or

keyboard rangers. We want people; members who we know will stand and fight when needed

and can respond and act in a professional manner. We do not do this to be hard ass’s, we do

this because we cannot afford to have tin foilers, conspiracy theorists, racists, fascists, etc in

our group. Doing so would only hold us under the magnifying glass that is already used to judge

racial hate groups and others because they say they have good intentions but are in turn using

the name of militia to try and justify their cause.

Any type of talk of racial/ethnic or religious bias will not be tolerated. We fight for the

freedoms of everyone, including those YOU may not necessarily like. Keep your opinions to

yourself. If you have a brain fart or A.D.D. moment, you will be removed from VMM with

extreme prejudice. there will be no tribunal or appeal. remember, the constitution did not limit

freedom and rights to any one specific person or group of people.

Illicit drug and alcohol use

The use of illicit drugs shall not be used during any form of training whether it be formal or

informal, or operations or any public setting when under official VMM capacity.

The use of alcohol will be allowed ONLY in off duty status. Meaning if you’re posted for fire

watch, you will not consume alcohol before your watch. You are NOT off duty until you have

been properly relieved. No Firearms while in the possession of alcohol. Illegal drugs will get

you hand delivered to the police. PLAIN AND SIMPLE. if we suspect you are under the influence

of illicit drugs or alcohol during FTX's your ammo will be removed from your weapon and your

vehicle. You will then be excluded from field training exercises and upon returning back to

reality from using said items, your ammo will then be given back to you and result in you being

suspended from VMM activities. If you’re on any over the counter or prescribed medications,

inform your battalion commander and your medical officer of all meds you are prescribed and

taking. This determines whether or not you need to be excluded from training for safety

reasons.