The organized militia of the State of Mississippi, also known as the Mississippi National Guard, may elect by proper action to come within the provision of the Mississippi Workmen's Compensation Law, and in such event shall notify the workmen's compensation commission of such action. After having made such an election, the said Mississippi National Guard may be a self-insurer without the requirement of paying the registration fee as required by Section 71-3-101 of the Workmen's Compensation Law and without the requirement of filing a self-insurer bond; and may make payment of compensation benefits from any appropriations or funds available to the Mississippi Military Department or any subdivision thereof, provided that such benefits shall be paid only for injuries sustained as a direct result of active military service for the State of Mississippi by direction of an executive order of the Governor of the State of Mississippi. For the purpose of determining the average weekly wages of the person entitled to benefits herein, said wages shall be computed on the basis of his earnings in civilian life or on the basis of his current military pay, whichever shall be greater.