Michigan's WW1 Centennial News Report April 2017

April 2017

Michigan State Troops

In April of 1917, Michigan and Governor Albert Sleeper faced a problem, The United States was now at war with Germany and Austro-Hungarian Empire, Who would be used for internal state security? Bridges, tunnels and other important installations had to be protected, there was a large population of people from the enemy states living in Michigan, the National Guard was being sent to France and local law enforcement was part-time or a volunteer force, Who would protect Michigan? This is the story of the Michigan State Troops Home Guard or as they are known today as the Michigan Volunteer Defense Force. One Century of Service protecting the State of Michigan.