The Coast Guard’s only dedicated surge force, the Reserve, is a contingency-based workforce, trained locally and deployed globally to meet Coast Guard mission requirements. Happy Birthday, U.S. Coast Guard Reserve!

African American veterans have supported and defended our nation as far back as colonial times. During the Civil War, African Americans served in 175 Union Army regiments, comprising over 10 percent of the force. They are known to have served in the Buffalo Soldiers (the Army’s 10^th Cavalry Regiment), the Spanish-American War, World War I, Korean War, World War II and all subsequent wars and contingencies.

Let us always keep American deployed troops in our prayers, that they will achieve their intended missions and return safely to us once again. God Bless America!

On December 20, 2019, the United States Space Force (USSF) became the sixth branch of the Armed Forces by the signing of that year’s annual defense policy bill. The USSF was established within the Department of the Air Force. Members of the Space Force are called “Guardians."

Even though it’s not a federal holiday, the birthday of the U.S. National Guard — celebrated on December 13 — it is an important event to note. Established in 1636, the National Guard is the oldest military organization in America. Its members serve during times of war and emergency. Take time to honor those who have protected our country for centuries.