Marine Corps Reserves Birthday
August 29
As an ASVAB tutor, I see the value in recognizing military holidays, observances, and anniversaries. I post about a variety of these day of recognition of military achievements and holidays in my blog. Today, August 29, is the Marine Corps Reserves Birthday. On August 29, 1916, President Woodrow Wilson signed the Naval Appropriations Act of 1916. The signing of this act established the Marine Corps Reserve. At this time, the United States’ involvement in World War I seemed more likely. There was an increased demand for military members and the formal creation of the Reserve was needed. When the United States joined World War I, the Marine Reserve forces consisted of 3 officers and 32 enlisted Marines. By the end of the war, there were over 6,000 Reservists. The Marine Corps Reserve has played an essential role in the Marine Corps Total Force. Members of the Marine Corps Reserves are trained for combat. They maintain full time civilian careers and take part in part-time military service. They can be mobilized for active duty in time of war, national emergency or military operations.
