Gov. Ron DeSantis Highlights Florida State Guard’s Expansion Plans

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is championing the expansion of the Florida State Guard as it prepares for a significant boost in operations during the upcoming legislative session.

At a press conference held Thursday in Starke, home to the Guard’s training center, DeSantis, alongside Florida State Guard Director Mark Thieme, emphasized the organization’s role in aiding the Florida National Guard, particularly during hurricane recovery efforts. The governor, who reinstated the State Guard in 2022, praised its contributions and underscored the need for further growth.

As part of its expansion plans, the Guard aims to enhance its capabilities with medics and additional aircraft. Currently, it operates two Black Hawk helicopters that have been modified for civilian use, along with a King Air plane for long-range missions. However, officials are pushing for more helicopters and planes to bolster emergency response efforts.

Thieme previously projected that the State Guard’s membership would reach approximately 1,000 members by the end of the current fiscal year on June 30, with expectations to grow to 1,200 by the end of 2025. The legislative session, beginning on March 4, will play a crucial role in determining the extent of this expansion.

With its growing presence and enhanced resources, the Florida State Guard continues to position itself as a key force in the state’s emergency response framework.