The United States Army joins our Nation on April 22nd to commemorate Earth

Day 2016. On this occasion, we renew our commitment to protect the environment and

preserve the lands entrusted to the Army-lands that enable our combat readiness and

our ability to defend this great Nation.

The Army takes tremendous pride in its sound environmental stewardship. As a

result, we continue to lead the Federal Government in initiatives that sustain habitats

and territories. In 2016, we pledge to focus on inspiring even greater awareness and

appreciation of the surroundings and conditions in which we live and operate, and the

role they play in ensuring our Army remains ready and resilient. Our efforts will

Acknowledge the Past by restoring Army lands and preserving cultural and historical

resources. We will Engage the Present by meeting today's environmental standards

while also enabling Army operations, and protecting Soldiers, Families, and Civilians.

Finally, we will Chart the Future by bringing the best practices and technologies to bear,

thereby ensuring future environmental resiliency. These initiatives will safeguard the

vitality of our lands and protect the communities where our Soldiers, Families, and

Civilians live, work, and play.

Equally important, we are addressing the implications of climate change and

assessing its associated risks to national security. We continue to seek and employ

technological innovations and energy solutions that reduce greenhouse gas emissions

and mitigate climate change. The Army is committed to leading the way by reducing

energy consumption, repurposing and recycling, and enhancing the resiliency and

readiness of our installations through energy efficiency and renewable energy use.

As our Army celebrates Earth Day 2016, please join us in protecting the

environment, enabling Soldiers' readiness, and securing the environmental future for

our citizens and our Nation. We encourage everyone to join in these efforts by learning

more about the Army's environmental initiatives. Every day around the world, you can

make a difference. Army Strong!

Related Documents:

Downloadable pdf of tri-signed letter [PDF]