Command Structure
The Michigan Defense Force is the state-level military organization authorized by both state and federal law. The MIDF is commanded by the state governor, through the state’s Adjutant General (TAG), who serves as the senior military commander and a member of the governor’s cabinet.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer
Gov. Whitmer is the Commander-in-Chief of the Michigan military establishment. She may order to active state service any members of the Michigan Defense Force in time of actual imminent public danger, disaster, crisis, catastrophe, or other public emergency within this state or for service in aid of civil authority, whether state or federal.
Major General Paul Rogers
The Adjutant General
MG Rogers is the commanding general of the military establishment which includes the Michigan National Guard, Michigan Air National Guard and the Michigan Defense Force. Under the direction of the governor, he is charged with the responsibility for the command, administration, logistics, training, and fiscal direction of the military establishment. He is also the director of the Michigan Department of the Military and Veteran Affairs.
Lieutenant Colonel (MI) Jeff Steinport
Michigan Defense Force Commander
LTC Steinport is the commanding officer of the MIDF. He oversees the overall operational control and chain-of-command for the MIDF under the Adjutant General. He leads the operational and training mission of the MIDF.