MSCoE CG and CSM Send: Celebrating the 117th birthday of the U.S. Army Reserve

By Maj. Gen. Christopher Beck, Maneuver Support Center of Excellence and Fort Leonard Wood commanding general, and MSCoE and Fort Leonard Wood Command Sgt. Maj. Jorge ArzabalaApril 17, 2025

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April 23 marks the 117th birthday of the United States Army Reserve. On April 23, 1908, Congress established the Medical Reserve Corps, the precursor to today’s robust and vital Army Reserve. For over a century, the citizen-Soldiers of the Army Reserve have answered the nation’s call, embodying the spirit of service and sacrifice.

Throughout numerous wars and battlefields, the Army Reserve has consistently provided essential support to the active duty Army and the nation. They are the embodiment of the “Twice the Citizen” motto, balancing civilian careers and family life with the rigorous demands of military service. These Soldiers are teachers, doctors, lawyers, engineers, and entrepreneurs who stand ready to don the uniform when duty calls.

The 102nd Training Division (Maneuver Support) at Fort Leonard Wood is responsible for 40 units and more than 2,200 Soldiers located in 36 different states across the nation. This team of Soldiers executes the U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command’s foundational capabilities of building and improving readiness by providing mission-critical, combat-ready Soldiers to the Army.

As we celebrate the 117th anniversary, let us recognize the unwavering dedication and sacrifice of the men and women of the U.S. Army Reserve. Their commitment to duty, their professionalism, and their embodiment of the Army values makes them an indispensable asset to our nation’s defense and a source of immense pride.

Happy birthday, Army Reserve! We are proud to serve with you!

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