To: The Honorable Members of the Virginia General Assembly and the Governor of Virginia
Subject: Granting Military Funeral Honors to Former Members of the Virginia Defense Force (VDF)
Petition Statement
We, the undersigned, respectfully request that the Commonwealth of Virginia formally authorize and provide military funeral honors for former members of the Virginia Defense Force (VDF) who have served honorably.
Background
The Virginia Defense Force is authorized under the Code of Virginia as the all-volunteer reserve component of the Virginia National Guard. The VDF serves as a force multiplier, supporting and integrating into domestic operations alongside the Virginia National Guard during emergencies, disasters, and community missions.
Members of the VDF:
Volunteer their time for training and service
Support disaster response, emergency management, and public safety missions
Receive pay only when called to state active duty by authorization of the Governor of Virginia
Despite their dedication and service to the Commonwealth, former VDF members are not currently guaranteed military funeral honors comparable to other uniformed service members.
Purpose of This Petition
We believe that honoring those who served in the Virginia Defense Force with military funeral honors is:
A recognition of their sacrifice and commitment
A sign of respect to their families and communities
A reinforcement of the value of volunteer service to the Commonwealth
Requested Action
We respectfully request that the Commonwealth of Virginia:
Authorize military funeral honors for honorably discharged former VDF members
Establish clear eligibility criteria similar to other state military forces
Provide resources or coordinate with the Virginia National Guard to ensure proper ceremonial honors, including:
Flag presentation
Honor guard detail
Bugle call (e.g., Taps)
Conclusion
The men and women of the Virginia Defense Force have stood ready in times of crisis, serving their communities and their Commonwealth with dedication and pride. It is only fitting that they be honored in death with the same dignity they carried in service