Daughtridge Sponsors Army Reserve Resolution (PHOTO)

Representatives Bill Daughtridge, Ric Killian, Winkie Wilkins, and Earline Parmon sponsored House Resolution 2266 to honor the 100th Anniversary of the United States Army Reserve.  At the recognition ceremony at the General Assembly this week Representative Daughtridge was presented a special recognition for outstanding service from the Army Reservists.

Rep. Daughtridge stated, "I am proud to be a sponsor of this Resolution honoring the Army Reserve, and I am very proud of each and every one of our Army Reservists for the sacrifices they make for our great country.  The tradition of the U.S. Army Reserve is rooted in the tradition of the American Colonists, and has changed over time to a lighter and quicker force. They are dedicated, highly skilled, flexible, and committed to protecting our nation and will be able to face ever-changing demands of the 21st century.  These Army Reservists and their loved ones shoulder a greater share of the burden than at any time in our nation's history.  They are vital to our national security interests and will continue to see that our homeland remains protected."

Those attending the House session today to hear the Resolution read and passed included:  Johnny Dwiggins, Executive Director for the NC Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve and Army Reserve Ambassador for North Carolina; Major General James B. Mallory III, Commander of the 108th Training Command in Charlotte; John Loughridge, a retired Army Reserve JAG officer, and also a member of the NC Committee Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve; and Dick Ellis, Public Affairs Director the North Carolina Committee Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve.

Since the Army Reserve's creation in 1908, the service is now a more experienced and battle tested force.  A total of 180,000 Army Reservists have been called to active duty since the terrorists' attacks of Sept. 11th and 40,000 Reservists have been mobilized more than once.  "As the Army Reserve continues to evolve and transform throughout its next 100 years, it will do as it always has, in the capable hands of those who choose to be "twice the citizen."

The 100th Anniversary was celebrated in Washington, D.C. on April 23, 2008.  A copy of the House Resolution will be taken to Washington, D.C. for display.