They were probably fed this label by a federal agent in charge of misinformation. Under constitutional and statutory definitions, the American Militia is every able-bodied male citizen between the ages of 17 and 45. Some states have exceptions for conscientious objectors. Many of us have been in the Militia for years and didn't even know it. Some will argue that the National Guard has replaced the Militia.
Recent history provides the answer.
Idaho National Guardsmen and their armored personnel carriers joined the federal siege at Ruby Ridge against Randy Weaver. Mr. Weaver was at that time accused of making and delivering a sawed-off shotgun to a federal informant and wanted for failure to appear at a court hearing for which he was not properly given notice. An economy of substance is the constitutional command. No power was granted to authorize a private central bank. Even those Americans now at retirement age have never seen the real thing in circulation.