The Virginia Defense Force shall be uniformed and shall conform to standards of dress and appearance in accordance with regulations prescribed by the Adjutant General. The uniform and insignia of the Virginia Defense Force shall include distinctive devices identifying it as a state defense force and distinguishing it from the National Guard or the armed forces of the United States. The wearing of permanent military decorations awarded in the service of the armed forces of the United States or in the national guards of the several states is authorized. The grade structure of the Virginia Defense Force, to the extent practicable, shall be the same as that prescribed for the Army National Guard.