Forsyth, GA – On Saturday, March 7, 2026, members of the Georgia State Defense Force (GSDF) conducted an outdoor training exercise at the Georgia Public Safety Training Center, focusing on strengthening the unit’s emergency response and disaster support capabilities.
During the training, the GSDF was honored to receive support from the The Salvation Army Georgia Division and its Emergency Disaster Services team, who prepared and served a hot dinner for participating soldiers in the field.
As a volunteer military component of the Georgia Department of Defense, the GSDF trains regularly to assist state and local agencies during emergencies and disasters, working alongside the Georgia National Guard to enhance Georgia’s overall readiness and response capabilities.
While GSDF members spent the day honing their operational skills, volunteers from The Salvation Army provided an essential form of support by ensuring soldiers had a warm meal at the end of a demanding day of training. Central Georgia Corps Officers Tim Blevins and Paula Blevins led the meal service, joined by Emergency Disaster Services volunteers from the Gainesville Corps and the Newnan Service Center. Their efforts were greatly appreciated by the soldiers participating in the exercise.
Partnerships like these reflect the strong collaboration between volunteer organizations, emergency management agencies, and military forces across the state. The Salvation Army’s long-standing commitment to supporting responders during times of crisis—through meals, logistical support, and care—mirrors the same spirit of service that drives GSDF members in their mission to support the people of Georgia.
Training events such as this help ensure that when disasters or emergencies occur, Georgia’s response community is prepared to work together effectively. The Georgia State Defense Force remains grateful for partners like The Salvation Army who stand ready to support those who serve.
Image credit: The Salvation Army.