The United States Army Reserve (USAR) is the federal reserve force of the United States Army. It provides trained soldiers and units that support active-duty operations during war, national emergencies, and peacetime missions. The Army Reserve is a vital part of the Reserve Components of the United States Armed Forces.
History
The Army Reserve was formally established in 1908 as the Medical Reserve Corps. It expanded significantly during World War I and World War II, providing essential manpower and specialists. During the Cold War, the Army Reserve supported deterrence missions worldwide. Since 9/11, the Army Reserve has been heavily deployed to Afghanistan, Iraq, and global humanitarian operations.
Mission
The mission of the Army Reserve is to provide trained, equipped, and ready soldiers capable of supporting the Army in combat and non-combat roles.
Roles include:
- Combat support and combat service support.
- Logistics, engineering, and transportation.
- Medical and legal services.
- Civil affairs and psychological operations.
Organization
The Army Reserve is divided into commands and units spread across the United States. Headquarters is at Fort Liberty, North Carolina.
Units include:
- Theater Sustainment Commands.
- Civil Affairs Commands.
- Medical Commands.
- Training Commands.
Leadership
The Army Reserve is commanded by the Chief of Army Reserve, who serves as both the senior leader and principal adviser on Army Reserve matters.
Personnel
Army Reservists typically train one weekend a month and two weeks a year, but may be mobilized for active-duty service during conflicts or emergencies.