Join the 55th – 55th Light Foot — Kootenai County, ID

Communication • Medical Preparedness • Sustainment • Field Operations

Join the 55th Light Foot Battilion

Community-Based Readiness Organization

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Membership Eligibility & Participation

Membership in the 55th Light Foot is open to U.S. citizens or legal residents of Idaho who are at least 16 years old and have ties to Kootenai County or North Idaho. We welcome individuals of all backgrounds, experience levels, ages, and abilities. Participation is completely voluntary, and there is no discrimination based on race, sex, national origin, or physical characteristics.

As a community-based readiness organization operating within the framework of the unorganized militia (as defined by federal law at 10 U.S.C. § 246 and Idaho Constitution Article XIV), we focus on practical preparedness, shared learning, and mutual support. Training and activities are centered around our four core pillars: Communications, Medical Preparedness, Sustainment, and Field Operations.

We value the wide range of skills that contribute to personal resilience and stronger communities. No one is expected to be an expert in everything — we build skills together through shared learning, training, and practical experience. Members and supporters may contribute in many ways, including:

Medical and first aid skills
Communications and radio operation
Logistics, transportation, and supply management
Mechanics, food preparation, and sustainment
Public relations and community outreach
Safety, fieldcraft, and basic marksmanship

Membership Process

Prospective members begin by downloading and completing the Membership Application Form. The application collects basic contact information, including name, date of birth, address, phone number, email, next of kin, and any relevant skills, certifications, training, or prior experience. Examples may include:

Military Service
Medical Training
Communications and Radio Operation
Mechanics and Technical Skills
Logistics, Transportation, or Sustainment Experience
Other Skills that Support Community Readiness and Resilience

Identity is verified using a valid Idaho driver’s license or state-issued identification card. Information is maintained privately for internal organizational purposes and handled in accordance with the organization’s operational and privacy practices.

After the application is reviewed, prospective members may be contacted to schedule a brief, informal conversation with senior leaders. These discussions provide an opportunity to learn more about the organization, ask questions, and discuss mutual expectations. Topics may include:

Interest in joining the organization
Relevant skills, experience, or areas of interest
Willingness to support the organization’s mission and Standards & Principles
Idaho Concealed Carry Weapons License (CCW) status for those participating in firearms-related activities

New members may participate in a probationary period designed to encourage shared learning, training, and familiarization with the organization’s culture, standards, and core pillars. Membership becomes official upon successful completion of this process and the presentation of the unit patch (“patched” membership).

This open and voluntary approach reflects the organization’s commitment to lawful preparedness, personal responsibility, ethical readiness, and community support while remaining grounded in constitutional principles and non-partisan service.

Become a Member Now!

Download and fill out the application, and email it to info@55thlightfoot.com.

Membership Qualification

To support responsible participation, legal compliance, and public trust, certain membership qualification standards apply to individuals seeking patched (full) membership within the organization. These standards are intended to help ensure that members participating in firearms-related activities meet applicable legal requirements and uphold the organization’s commitment to safety, accountability, and responsible community service. The following policies outline current expectations related to concealed carry licensing and felony convictions.

Concealed Carry Weapons License (CCW)

Idaho is a constitutional carry state, allowing eligible individuals to carry concealed firearms without a permit. However, for patched or full membership and participation in firearms-related activities, prospective members are required to obtain a standard Idaho Concealed Carry Weapons License (CCW). This serves as a reliable background check confirming the individual is eligible to possess and carry firearms under state and federal law.

During a probationary period of up to four months, new members may observe meetings and learn about the group but will not participate in range activities or firearms training without a valid CCW.
If a prospective member is eligible for a CCW but does not yet have one, they have time during probation to obtain it.
Enhanced CCW is encouraged but not required for its additional reciprocity benefits when traveling.

Criminal Felony Conviction Disclosures

In general, individuals with felony convictions are not admitted to membership. This policy supports public trust, compliance with firearms restrictions, and the group’s focus on responsible community service. While we recognize that some convictions may not reflect current character, the need for clear eligibility standards and legal compliance guides this approach.

Be Part of the Mission

The 55th Light Foot welcomes individuals who value preparedness, personal responsibility, shared learning, and community support. Whether you bring years of experience or simply a willingness to learn, membership offers an opportunity to develop practical skills, build lasting connections, and contribute to a culture of ethical readiness grounded in constitutional principles and service to others.

Those interested in learning more about membership expectations, organizational structure, training standards, and operational guidelines are encouraged to review the full 55th Light Foot Militia Standards & Principles document before applying.