The Role of the Reserve Component in the 21st Century
Abstract
The U.S. military cannot do all it is asked to do without relying on the Reserve Components. The events of 9/11 significantly reshaped the role and the use of the reserve components in operational missions. The future of the Reserve Components will become even more critical as the deficit reduction requires cutbacks to the active duty military. The Reserve Component units are not just support elements as seen in Desert Storm. They perform every bit as well as their active duty counterparts and are recognized as finely trained and ready troops. Given the ability of the Reserve Components to operate and fulfill mission requirements as well as the Active Components, the Department of Defense (DoD) has cause to re-evaluate the future role of the Reserve Components. Greater integration of Reserve Components' and Active Components' training, activations, and overseas deployments is a potential solution. Whether the mission is a natural or man-made crisis, building partnerships, or performing in combat operations, how the DoD uses the Reserve Components has never been more important. Identifying the Reserve Components' role in crisis response, power projection, and the conduct of operations, therefore, warrants greater examination.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 2012
- Accession Number
- ADA593060
Entities
People
- Kimberly M. Martindale
Organizations
- The Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy