The U.S. Army Reserve celebrated its 118th birthday at Independence Hall and the Betsy Ross House in Philadelphia on April 24, 2026. The event included the enlistment of 118 future Soldiers, showcasing a commitment to community engagement and recruitment success.
During the ceremony, nearly half of the new recruits will join the Army Reserve. The National Anthem was performed by Chief Warrant Officer 2 and country musician Craig Morgan Greer, adding a festive atmosphere to the occasion. Army Reserve chefs cut a ceremonial cake to mark the milestone.
Lt. Gen. Robert Harter, chief of Army Reserve and commanding general of U.S. Army Reserve Command, spoke about the significance of the day. He stated, “There’s only one nation that swears an oath of allegiance to its constitution … and that is the United States of America.” His remarks emphasized the importance of military service in upholding national values.
The event also featured a reenlistment ceremony, reinforcing the dedication of current Soldiers to their military commitments. Maj. Donald Petty, executive officer for the Army’s Mid-Atlantic recruiting battalion, highlighted recent recruitment successes by saying, “Today’s enlistment ceremony is the culmination of the Army Reserve’s recent success in recruiting the next generation of warfighters.”
The Army Reserve plays a crucial role in supporting Army and joint force requirements both domestically and abroad. Officials aim to attract top talent from various communities as part of their ongoing recruitment efforts.
Jim Bernet, an ARA at Large with over fifteen years of service, noted his increasing conversations about the Army Reserve’s value during outreach efforts: “I found myself talking more today than ever about what the Army Reserve is.” He stressed that expanding outreach is essential for conveying the benefits of serving.
The event illustrated how military service connects with local communities. The Army Reserve’s Private Public Partnership Office supports civilian career growth for Soldiers and their families, enhancing community ties.
