Idaho Light Foot Militia
The Idaho Light Foot Militia (ILFM) is a privately organized militia in the state of Idaho. The Idaho Light Foot Militia is distinct from a state defense force in that it is not recognized as part of the organized militia by the government of Idaho, but is rather privately organized by private citizens in the unorganized militia. The ILFM was founded in 2009.[1]
Organization
Combat teams
Combat Teams are composed of “Minutemen” who are physically capable of carrying a full combat load and executing all necessary combat missions. Each Minuteman must pass one of the militia's three skill level tests, the “Skill Level 1” test, and complete the “Skill Level 2” test as soon as possible. Minutemen must be physically fit enough to keep up with their teammates and complete the mission.[2]
S.W.O.R.D. teams
S.W.O.R.D. (Select Weapons, Ordinance and Reconnaissance Detachment) Teams consist of 6 men who receive extra training in one of three areas: Designated Marksman, Land Navigation or Communications.[2]
Support teams
Support teams are composed of militia members who are unable or unwilling to serve on a combat team. Each support team is organized as a Medical Team or a Supply Team, or a member can hold an assignment as a chaplain in religious support capacity.[2]
Structure
| Battalion | Location | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1st Battalion | Ada County | |
| 9th Battalion | Benewah County | |
| 17th Battalion | Bonner County | |
| 21st Battalion | Boundary County | |
| 27th Battalion | Canyon County | |
| 45th Battalion | Gem County | |
| 55th Battalion | Kootenai County | |
| 79th Battalion | Shoshone County | |
Personnel
Membership in the ILFM is open to citizens of Idaho aged 16 and older.[2] Members participate in training and attend monthly meetings.[4] As of 2010, the militia consisted of over 100 members.[5]
Training
Training for all members includes basic marksmanship (including rifle and pistol), field communication, first aid, small unit movements, land navigation, survivalism, and camouflage. Skills are measured on a scale of three levels: Skill Level 1, Skill Level 2, and Skill Level 3. Each level's qualifications are more difficult than the last.[2]
Equipment
Weapons and ammunition
Members provide their own weapons and ammunition. Members are encouraged to own a rifle which fires a common caliber of bullet, such as the 7.62×39, .223, 5.56×45mm NATO or the .308. Members may carry a sidearm as a secondary weapon.[2]
Uniforms
The Idaho Light Foot Militia utilizes the Battle Dress Uniform as its primary uniform; however, uniforms with the MARPAT pattern, the Army Combat Uniform, and other forms of camouflage are authorized for wear. Load bearing equipment and a pack to carry equipment are used by members. The militia has a Class B uniform composed of a short sleeved polo style shirt with an embroidered Spartan patch and "Molon labe” on the upper left chest area along with “Idaho Militia”.[6]
Additional equipment
Members are encouraged to supply themselves, when possible, with a helmet, body armor, a first aid kit, binoculars, a GPS, and a water filtration system.[2]
References
- ↑ McKnight, Matt Mills (2 August 2012). "'Teeth of the Constitution:' Light Foot Militia rises in Idaho's backcountry". NBC News. Retrieved 9 December 2015.
- 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 "Militia Standards and Principles of the Light Foot" (PDF). Idaho Light Foot Militia Official Website. Retrieved 8 December 2015.
- ↑ "Idaho Light Foot Militia HQ". Idaho Light Foot Militia Official Website. Retrieved 8 December 2015.
- ↑ Kruesi, Kimberlee (18 April 2014). "The Militia Wants YOU: Idaho Militia Recruits in Twin Falls". Magic Valley. Times-News. Retrieved 8 December 2015.
- ↑ Owens, Ryan; Brown, Ely (30 March 2010). "In Idaho, a Militia Trains ... for What?". ABC News. Retrieved 8 December 2015.
- ↑ "Light Foot Militia Uniform". Idaho Light Foot Militia Official Website. Retrieved 8 December 2015.