[fproy2222]

I have to wonder why a faith needs a military, why they partake of “military operations” if they are not intending to take over another's land,

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I would have to look it up to find which settlements this is true for, The town militia was state sponsored with the town leaders at its head, like the many other towns around.

Since as the author said, the LDS gathered together, that made the town militia made up of the citizens of the town.

[ejonesie22]

Joseph Smith had a private militia, a private army for his city in Illinois, many of whom were former members of “Danites” vigilante group. The state did give Smith broad powers in creating Nauvoo, including the right to form a group of soldiers. I find it odd that he felt the need to do so. I am very curious why a prophet needs an army.

Also it did not take Illinois long to regret the decision and this "Militia" became “extra-legal” for the remainder of it's existence. It was never formally a “sanctioned” part of the Illinois militia organization, though they did finally make up the Utah National Guard in 1894 after much federal pressure.