After much debate about an Oath, the framers of the U. The reason is simple – public servants are just that – servants of the people. This column was originally published on Jeff Neal’s blog,, and was republished here with permission from the author. After much debate about an Oath, the framers of the U. And you will work, train and fight together as soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines and guardians.This column was originally published on Jeff Neal’s blog, , and was republished here with permission from the author.įederal employees, Representatives, Senators, judges, political appointees, the President and Vice President of the United States take an oath of office. So what does taking an oath mean? Why even do it? You will stand proud alongside outstanding teammates from all walks of life. "And you'll learn that success is a team sport. You'll learn new skills and you'll put them to use at home and abroad," the secretary said. In the armed forces, the new service members will find opportunities to grow and to lead, he said. "We rely on you, our democracy relies on you, and your country relies on you," Austin said. The new service members are now part of something much bigger that just themselves. And the power of today's military is a testament to every American patriot who freely volunteers to keep our republic safe." "America's all-volunteer force is the strongest military in human history. military has grown into the outstanding and incredibly professional fighting force that it is today," he said. "And I've watched over the decades, as the U.S. But the whole world has seen the results."Īustin joined the Army in 1975. "No other military with such formidable capabilities operated on a volunteer basis. "Shifting over to an all-volunteer force, was a pretty bold step," the secretary said. "Ever since then, Americans like you have joined our military, out of conviction and not out of compulsion."īeginning in 1940, the Selective Service - the Draft - manned the military and provided the forces needed for World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War and the Cold War. "Fifty years ago this week, the United States stopped drafting citizens into service and turned instead to an all-volunteer force," Austin said. They are also the latest members of the all-volunteer force. "You've arrived here as individuals, but you're going to leave here as part of a team." "This is a big day for the young people standing in front of me," Austin said. Meade, Maryland, were sworn in and will find themselves at Fort Moore, Georgia Parris Island, South Carolina or Great Lakes, Illinois, by the end of the day. They arrived at the processing station at Fort George G. Many of those swearing into service also shipped today. He also took the time to meet the newest members and welcome them "to the greatest team in the world." Austin, who spent 41 years in the Army, used the occasion to mark the 50th anniversary of the start of America's all-volunteer military.
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