Forty Army Reservists Re-enlist on Capitol Steps

Excerpts from an article by By Steven Donald Smith| American Forces Press Service

Army Lt. Gen. Helmly speaks at a National Capitol Reenlistment Ceremony April 6, 2006. Photo by Steven D. Smith

“These great American heroes swear and affirm that they will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies foreign and domestic,” Army Lt. Gen. James R. Helmly, chief of the Army Reserve, said at the ceremony.

“The reading of the oath only lasts but a minute, but their pledge will last a lifetime.”

Why you may ask?

“It’s almost like I was born and bred to be a soldier. This is my life, this is what I love, this is where I want to be, this is my family,” Sgt. 1st Class Juanita Wilson.

“So that I can keep the training tradition alive, and train up the younger soldiers who are coming in, so that they’re combat-ready to keep defending this great nation.”  Sgt. Joshua Frey, of Cleveland, Ohio.

“It was my duty to do so. I love the uniform and I love the Army. They’ve always been really good to me and I’ve had really great leaders,…There’s no better job to come to than the one that the whole country thanks you for.”  Staff Sgt. Magdalena Rodriguez, of Hinesville, Ga.

“A duty to the country, and a responsibility to protect Americans and my family.” Staff Sgt. Aaron Knudson, of Rockford, Ill

Click here to read the article in it entirely. Click here to see additional picture from the 2006 NCRC.

Answering America’s Call to Duty!

Army Reserve Magazine | June 22, 2006 | Prichard, Chuck

US Flag surrounded by a rare rainbow halo.

Washington, D.C.–Forty Citizen Soldiers from all walks of life reaffirmed their commitment to the Army Reserve April 6, 2006 by participating in a reenlistment ceremony on the steps of the U.S. Capitol. The Soldiers are the first participants in the Army Reserve’s Reenlistment Recognition Program.

LTG James R. Helmly, Chief, Army Reserve, addressed a question some might ask of the participants. “I’m sure there are those who want to know why, in such turbulent, challenging, dangerous times as these, would anyone reenlist into the Army; why these Americans, facing deployment to a war zone–some for the second or third time–are willing to raise their right hands and renew their oath of enlistment.”

“Why, you ask? Because they are answering America’s Call to Duty! It is a call that summons forth their sense of duty, honor, courage. I tell you that Americans, such as these, have been answering that call for over 230 years by serving in our Army,” Helmly said. more>>

Check back as we share with you stories, comments, videos and photos from past National Capitol Reenlistment Ceremonies and participants. Post your comments and stories as well as why you continue to answer the call to Stay Army Reserve!

Moreover, if you were a part of the first ceremony we are looking forward to hearing about your experiences in the National Capitol Region and your participation in the ceremony.