August 29th marks the Marine Corps Reserve Birthday!
That makes 105 years for the Marine Corps Reserve. In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson signed the legislation that created Navy and Marine Corps Reserves through the Naval Appropriations Act.
By the end of the Vietnam War, with the end of the military draft, the Marines were able to become a much more voluntary force with about 38,000 in the Marine Corps Select Reserve. This is in addition to the 70,000 Marines serving in the Individual Ready Reserve. We have these dedicated military service members to thank for the elimination of the draft.
This is an internal observance primarily, not a national holiday, but that doesn’t mean you can’t help honor so many men and women who have served. Join us in honoring the Marine Corps Reserves and properly display the Marine Reserve service flag alongside the American flag.
Of course, you can always consider contributing to the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society. Plus, check out this resource for ways to say “thank you” to a marine. Here are some examples:
- Donate to a veteran’s organization
- Help build a home
- Deliver a meal
- Lay a wreath at a service member’s grave
- Visit veterans in hospitals and nursing homes
- Hire veterans for a job
Do you or somebody you know wish to join the Marine Corps Reserve? Qualified candidates must be between 18 and 29 years old, possess a high school diploma, and be prepared to enter the 12 weeks of recruit training at Parris Island, South Carolina, or attend basic training at the Recruit Training Depot in San Diego, California.
We at SRQ Vets are dedicated to serving veterans in the Sarasota and Manatee communities. One of our critical tasks involves raising awareness for veterans who suffer from PTSD, joblessness, homeless, suicidal ideation, or need further education or healthcare. You can find out more about our services here. Back in May, we had our 6th Annual Memorial Day 5K hike as well as our gun raffle to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
If you agree with our mission and would like to support it, you can visit our website to donate. We also invite you to volunteer with us in whatever way you can. All veterans are welcome to reach out to us as well. We love to hear from you and want to do whatever it takes to serve you.
Thank you to all our American veterans, especially our reservists, and Semper Fi!
