The Virginia Defense Force (VDF) is an all volunteer formal military organization working specifically to assist the people and government of the Commonwealth whenever and wherever the help is needed. The mission of the VDF is to assist the Department of Military Affairs, as a partner with the Virginia Army and Air National Guard, in the performance of in-state missions when activated by the Governor of the Commonwealth. Additionally, should the Virginia National Guard (VNG) be called upon for federal deployment, the VDF may be tasked to assume the state mission of the VNG. Together with the Virginia National Guard, the Virginia Defense Force provides an important part of the Commonwealth's emergency response assets. The VDF is the state's only military force that is independent of federal control. With units located through out Virginia the force can move quickly into areas affected by natural or man made emergencies. The VDF is a volunteer force, drawing upon people with a wide range of talents that wish to serve. 1st MP is one of three Companys forming the 1st Military Police Battalion, Division Troop Command. MP Battalion HHD is co-located at the Petersburg National Guard Armory. Members of the Company train in Traffic Control, Perimeter and Installation Security, Crowd/Riot Control, and other skills that are necessary to ensure the safety of the personnel of the VDF and citizens of the Commonwealth. 1st MP also assists in the training of other units of the VDF in regards to security related skills.