Army Reserves celebrated 100-year anniversary on Capitol Hill

100 Army Reserve Soldiers re-enlisted on the grounds of Capitol Hill to commemorate the 100th Anniversary of the Army Reserve last week.

The United States Army Reserve commemorated its 100th Anniversary, on April 23, honoring its Soldiers and Veterans who have played a vital role in every major U.S. military conflict and humanitarian mission of the past 100 years.

On the West Lawn of the United States Capitol, 100 Soldiers from throughout the United States participated in a mass re-enlistment ceremony, including a Lubbock Reserve Soldier, Staff Sgt. Shawanda Bass and San Antonio Reserve Soldier, Spec. John Garcia. Both Soldiers are assigned to the Army Reserve Medical Command.

The Chief of the United States Army Reserve, Lt. Gen Jack C. Stultz, presided over the ceremony, which was attended by Army Reserve and other military leaders, Members of Congress and the family members of the re-enlisting Soldiers.

"There can be no greater expression of patriotism on this historic 100th Anniversary than by the oaths of these 100 Soldiers who are renewing their commitment to serve their country," said Stultz. "In this time of war, these brave men and women epitomize personal courage and selfless service, and they are the pride of the nation they serve."

America's Army Reserve Veterans were remembered during a wreath-laying at the Tomb of the Unknowns at Arlington National Cemetery, followed by a tree planting and plaque dedication on the grounds nearby.

"We are always reminded of the sacrifices of our Army Reserve Soldiers who went into harm's way over the past 100 years to make our world safer, especially those who made the ultimate sacrifice," said Stultz. "Our thoughts of gratitude are also with America's families. Their unflagging support for our Soldiers makes their service possible."

The Army Reserve traces its origins to the now little known Medical Reserve Corps, created by Congress on April 23, 1908, and initially composed of just 160 civilian physicians. This small force was formed to provide the nation with a reservoir of trained medical officers in times of war.

Today's Army Reserve Soldiers play a vital role in the Global War on Terror, applying specialized civilian capabilities to a wide range of missions in Afghanistan and Iraq. Approximately 190,000 Army Reserve Soldiers have been mobilized in support of the War on Terror since 9/11, with 26,000 currently serving on active duty. 19,000 Army Reserve Soldiers are deployed overseas today, while 7,000 are supporting homeland security missions.