"The Reservist is twice the citizen." — Winston Churchill

The United States Army Reserve celebrates its 118th birthday this year. The Army Reserve marks this milestone on April 23, 2026, honoring the dedication of Citizen Soldiers who have strengthened readiness and supported the Total Army through two World Wars, the Cold War, Korea, Vietnam, the Persian Gulf War, and many other missions around the globe.

The Army Reserve is the largest of the Reserve Forces, providing support to the Regular Army at home and overseas. Since its establishment in 1908, more than 1.3 million Soldiers have answered the call to serve, a legacy that is not just history, but the foundation of what the Army Reserve represents today: a capable, ready, and indispensable force.

Founded on April 23, 1908, the Army Reserve is a diverse group of dedicated citizen-soldiers who serve part-time in the military while simultaneously maintaining a civilian career and lifestyle. Army Reserve Soldiers are "twice the citizen," serving in uniform while excelling in civilian careers as doctors, engineers, educators, business leaders, and innovators. This blend of military discipline and real-world expertise enables faster mobilization, innovative problem-solving, and mission-ready formations across global operations.

In honor of their birthday, we've rounded up some interesting facts about this remarkable group. Take a look!

Did You Know?

1. There are Army Reserve units in all 50 U.S. states, 20 different time zones across the world, and five U.S. territories. 
2. Right now, nearly 9,000 Army Reserve Soldiers are mobilized or deployed, supporting Army and joint force requirements across 25 countries — including support to Operation Epic Fury and operations on the Southern Border. 
3. Army reservists who have been called to active duty and served 10+ years are eligible to receive the Armed Forces Reserve Medal.
4. Actor Leonard Nimoy, who rose to fame as Spock on Star Trek, enlisted in the Reserve in 1953 and served 18 months, leaving as a sergeant.
5. Alan Alda, best known for playing Hawkeye on M.A.S.H., served as an Army Reserve artillery officer.
6. Army reservist 1st Lt. Sam Kendricks competed in pole vaulting at the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, earning a bronze medal.

Happy 118th Birthday, Army Reserve! We are eternally grateful for all that you do!

Army Related Products

We have several Army-related products available for purchase. Whether you want to send a gift to a loved one or honor your own past, present, or future, we have it all here! A few of our favorites include:

1. Army Flag
2. Flag Display Case with Army Service Medallion
3. Medallion Desktop Box with Army Seal