The U.S. Army, throughout history, has produced the best-educated and trained personnel our nation has ever seen. With an astounding 41 million Americans having served in the Army, National Guard, Army Reserves, and state militias, we express our sincere gratitude to all who have served, and we will forever remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Over the years, Congress has declared war on 11 occasions, and each time, the soldiers and airmen of the Army have answered the call with unwavering dedication. The Army has been deployed to numerous conflicts, too numerous to mention here, and has consistently risen to the occasion regardless of the task at hand.
From the war for independence to the ongoing Global War on Terror, American soldiers have played a crucial role in safeguarding our nation’s strength and freedom. They have achieved unparalleled success and earned remarkable accolades in various theaters around the world.
These brave Army soldiers have triumphed over despots, tyrants, communists, Nazis, socialists, and dictatorships of all sizes and ideologies. They have stood firm in their commitment to restore and defend freedom.
The diversity of our Army is a testament to the melting pot that is America. Comprising men and women from all walks of life and religious backgrounds, every soldier takes a sacred oath of service. Their collective mission is to ensure the safety and freedom of America and its citizens.
It is important to acknowledge that our Army takes its orders from civilian leadership. Our soldiers do not initiate wars; it is our elected officials and global leaders who make those decisions. The soldiers serve with the aim to secure victory.
As Americans, we owe an immeasurable debt of gratitude to our Army. These soldiers have willingly volunteered or answered the call through the draft system. Even today, as a 100% volunteer force, young men and women continue to pledge their commitment to “support and defend the Constitution of the United States.”
Each and every one of us has the opportunity to express our gratitude to those who have donned the uniform of the U.S. Army, National Guard, Army Reserve, and Army Air Corps. Let us come together as patriotic Americans and appreciative allies to honor the U.S. Army on its 248th birthday.