Rhode Island Independent Military Organizations (original) (raw)

The Rhode Island Independent Military Organizations (also known as the Chartered Commands of the Rhode Island Militia) are a group of independently-operated chartered militias in the state of Rhode Island, most of whose histories date back to the state's colonial and revolutionary history. Under Rhode Island law, they are considered part of state's organized militia forces but are explicitly distinct from Rhode Island's National Guard, State Guard, and Naval Militia. Today, these organizations are largely ceremonial and educational in purpose but are sometime called up for active civil service in minor capacities.