By Maria Bentinck,  Director, Army Retirement Services    May 2026

One of the greatest privileges of being a Retired Soldier is the opportunity to continue serving long after taking off the uniform. Retirement from active service does not mean retirement from purpose. In fact, I have found some of my most meaningful moments as a retired Army Adjutant General Corps lieutenant colonel have come from helping inspire the next generation to serve.

On Jan. 20, 2026, I had the tremendous honor of administering the oath of enlistment to my goddaughter, Pvt. Kayla Guinyard, as she entered the U.S. Army at Fort Jackson, S.C. Standing beside her as she raised her right hand was a proud and emotional moment—not only as her godmother, but as a Retired Soldier who understands the significance of that commitment.

Then, on April 2, 2026, I had the privilege of serving as the guest speaker at her Basic Combat Training (BCT) graduation at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo. Watching Kayla stand among her fellow Soldiers after completing one of the most challenging and transformational experiences of their lives was inspiring.

During my remarks, I spoke about the journey each Soldier had completed over the previous ten weeks. They had endured long days, early mornings, road marches, rifle qualification, the gas chamber, physical training, and countless moments that tested their resilience and determination. I reminded them that they were no longer trainees—they had earned the title of Soldier.

I also shared a message that is especially important today: less than one percent of Americans serve in the Armed Forces. Each graduate had answered a call that most Americans never will. Their willingness to serve reflects courage, commitment, and a desire to be part of something larger than themselves.

I spoke about how the Army continues to evolve, modernize, and adapt to meet new challenges. Today’s Soldiers will serve in an Army focused on readiness, transformation, modernization, technology, and the future fight. They will help shape the Army of tomorrow.

Most importantly, I reminded them that becoming a Soldier is not just about what they do while in uniform. It is about joining a lifelong community. Once a Soldier, Always a Soldier … A Soldier for Life.

My experience at Fort Leonard Wood was especially meaningful because, while I was there, my cousin, Spc. Ronald Wilson graduated from Advanced Individual Training (AIT) in the Transportation Corps. I was fortunate enough to attend his graduation as well. Seeing both Kayla and Ronald reach important milestones in their Army journeys reinforced something I have believed for many years: our conversations matter.

Over time, I spoke to each of them about military service, the opportunities it provides, and the importance of giving back to something greater than yourself. Today, I am proud to say that three of my godchildren are serving in the military—two in the Army and one in the Air Force (PV2 Kayla Guinyard, Spc. Naijah Edmonds-Marshall and Tech. Sgt. Johnisha Robinson).

As Retired Soldiers, we have tremendous influence. Young people are watching us.

They are listening to our stories, observing our leadership, and learning from our example. We can inspire them to serve in uniform, support their communities, or become leaders in other ways.

We can remain active in our local communities and installations by volunteering our time, supporting recruiting efforts, mentoring military youth, assisting at retiree appreciation events, serving with installation councils, and participating in programs that strengthen our Army.

We also bring unique skills and experiences that remain valuable to the Army. Retired Soldiers understand readiness, leadership, resilience, teamwork, and mission accomplishment. Those qualities are still needed as the Army continues its transformation and modernization efforts.

I have seen firsthand the impact Retired Soldiers can have on youth through my own experience as a Senior Army Instructor in Army Junior Reserve Offiers’ Traning Corps. JROTC provides students with structure, mentorship, confidence, leadership skills, and a sense of belonging. It teaches them the values of citizenship, service, personal responsibility, and teamwork.

For many students, JROTC can change the trajectory of their lives. Whether they eventually serve in the military or pursue other career paths, the lessons they learn remain with them. As Retired Soldiers, we still have an opportunity— and perhaps even a responsibility — to inspire the next generation. Our Army needs our experience, our leadership, and our continued service.

There are many ways to continue serving after retirement. Sometimes, it starts with a simple conversation. And sometimes, that conversation can help shape the future of our Army.