The General Military Council (GMC) is the governing body of Department Councils and Special Aides throughout North America. Its counterpart, the European General Military Council oversees Department Councils and Special Aides throughout Europe.

The GMC was established through legislation that was voted upon during the September 1885 session of The Sovereign Grand Lodge, I.O.O.F.

Under the direction of Lieutenant General and the first General Commanding, John C. Underwood of Kentucky, the Patriarchs Militant Army was established.

During the interim (or in between annual sessions), the Executive Committee oversees the affairs of the GMC.

On December 31, 2021, The International Association of Ladies Auxiliaries Patriarchs Militant (IALAPM) was merged into the GMC. Their historical records are being archived and will be part of the GMC’s history.