New Mexico Statutes Chapter 20. Military Affairs § 20-5-3. Composition; enlistment; appointment

A. The state defense force shall consist of persons eighteen years or older voluntarily appointed or voluntarily enlisted therein and such additional members of the unorganized militia as therein may be appointed, enlisted, enrolled or inducted as provided by law.

B. The officers of the state defense force shall be appointed by the governor and serve at the governor's pleasure. They shall be chosen from the public and private leadership bases within local communities so as to best enable the community to efficiently muster and lead its people and protect its assets and well-being.