About this Unit
The United States Army Reserve was officially established in 1908 to provide a federal reserve of medical officers for the U.S. Army. Over time, its mission expanded to include soldiers from many different specialties, supporting the active Army in times of need. Army Reserve units have been mobilized for every major conflict since World War I, including World War II, the Korean War, Vietnam, Desert Storm, and the Global War on Terrorism. Today, the US Army Reserve provides trained, equipped, and ready soldiers and units to support national defense and humanitarian missions both at home and abroad.
Historical Facts
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Origins in World War I: The US Army Reserve traces its roots to 1908, when Congress authorized the creation of the Medical Reserve Corps, which became the first federal reserve force.
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Official Establishment: The Army Reserve as we know it was formally established in 1920 with the National Defense Act, creating the Organized Reserve Corps.
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Mass Mobilization in WWII: During World War II, over 200,000 reservists were called to active duty, playing vital roles in logistics, intelligence, and combat support.
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First Female General: In 1971, Anna Mae Hays, a US Army Reserve nurse, became the first female general in US military history.
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Citizen-Soldiers: Army Reserve soldiers are often called "citizen-soldiers" because they balance civilian careers with military service, strengthening the connection between the military and American society.
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Crucial in Operations Desert Storm and Iraqi Freedom: Army Reservists made up nearly 70% of the Army medical units deployed during Operation Desert Storm in 1991 and played key roles in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.
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Innovative Training: The Army Reserve pioneered distance learning and virtual training programs to efficiently prepare part-time soldiers for active duty.
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Disaster Response at Home: Reservists are routinely mobilized for domestic emergencies, such as Hurricane Katrina, wildfires, and the COVID-19 pandemic, providing medical, engineering, and logistical support.
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Largest Federal Reserve Force: With over 200,000 soldiers, the Army Reserve is the largest federal reserve force in the United States, providing critical support to the active Army.
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Distinguished Alumni: Notable Army Reserve veterans include General Colin Powell, former Secretary of State, and astronaut Michael Collins, pilot of Apollo 11’s command module.
