By Sgt. 1st Class Dae McDonald     May 2026

Since its establishment in 1908, the Army Reserve has answered the nation’s call when needed. With more than 1.3 million Citizen Soldiers, that legacy is not just history, it is the foundation of what the Army Reserve represents today: a capable, ready and indispensable force.

Army Reserve Soldiers are “twice the citizen,” serving in uniform while excelling in civilian careers as doctors, engineers, educators, business leaders, and more.

Right now, nearly 9,000 Army Reserve Soldiers are mobilized or deployed, supporting Army and joint force requirements and missions across 25 countries — including support to Operation Epic Fury and operations on our Southern Border.

As the Army Reserve looks ahead, Chief of Army Reserve and Commanding General, U.S. Army Reserve Command, Lt. Gen. Robert D. Harter, remains focused on recruiting the next generation of talent, retaining experienced Soldiers, and transforming for the future fight. 

“As the enabling capacity for the Army, our role has never been more critical,” Harter said, “The Army Reserve is driving on its purpose — building and delivering combat-ready Soldiers and formations when the nation calls.