The National Guard’s Strength Management Program, overseen by the 18th Recruiting and Retention Battalion (RRB) is tasked with implementing the annual goals of the National Guard Bureau’s Director’s Strength Management (DSM) program. The aim of this program is to ensure that the highest standards of strength management are maintained in the National Guard Recruiting and Retention Force. The basic tenets listed for the Strength Management Program of the National Guard Recruiting includes:

• Ensuring that the overall National Guard strength is maintained through efficient recruiting and retention of personnel
• Implementing measures to ensure that the quality of Guard personnel is not compromised
• Implementing measures to ensure that the National Guard is ready to respond to any domestic or international emergency
• Monitoring the readiness of National Guard units for deployment
• Identifying and eliminating any factors that could adversely affect National Guard strength
• Creating and maintaining a versatile program to ensure the continuity of the Guard’s capabilities
• Developing and implementing a comprehensive system of recruitment, retention and attrition management

The National Guard Strength Maintenance Training Battalion (SMTB) provides the training necessary for soldiers to be successful in their roles as part of the National Guard’s Recruiting and Retention Force (RRF). The SMTB’s training focuses on technical and management skills, such as warrant officer education, and equal opportunity, morale, and welfare management. The SMTB also emphasizes the importance of developing a disciplined, professional attitude with respect to completing military and civilian tasks. Furthermore, the SMTB provides continuous education and training in the Army’s strength management objectives.

The National Guard’s Strength Management Program is an essential tool for maintaining the strength of the National Guard Recruiting and Retention Force, and for ensuring the quality of personnel. The SMTB provides the training and guidance required for successful implementation of this program.