[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 55 (Wednesday, April 21, 1999)]
[Senate]
[Pages S4064-S4065]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       RHODE ISLAND RESERVE OFFICERS ASSOCIATION 75TH ANNIVERSARY

 Mr. REED. Mr. President, I rise to congratulate the Rhode 
Island Department of the Reserve Officers Association of the United 
States (RIROA) on the 75th Anniversary of its founding.
  The Reserve Officers Association was established in 1922 to link 
together Reserves from each of the armed services. The fighting force 
of the 21st century is a joint force, yet Rhode Island's Reserves 
implemented this concept 75 years ago when the Army, Navy Reserve, and 
National Guard joined together to form the RIROA.
  The purpose of the Reserve Officers Association is to support a 
military policy for the United States that will provide, promote, and 
develop the execution of adequate national security. The RIROA has 
dedicated itself to this purpose and to bringing all military services 
closer in a common bond. The RIROA is a leading proponent of developing 
strong Reserve forces in each of the uniformed services to work for the 
welfare of citizen soldiers in Rhode Island and the interests of the 
national security of the entire country.

[[Page S4065]]

  The Reserves are essential members of the national security force, 
facing greater challenges than ever before. Today's military is leaner, 
yet the number of missions has steadily increased. Therefore, the 
services are relying more and more on reserve forces to carry out the 
task of protecting the U.S. and its principles. Reservists are not only 
an integral part of any mobilization overseas, but are increasingly on 
the front lines of protecting the home front from terrorist acts, 
information warfare, and attacks on our critical infrastructure.
  With over 85,000 members nationwide, and over 600 members from Rhode 
Island, today's Reserves are a significant and vital part of the United 
States' military force. The United States military would not be the 
finest fighting force in the world without the commitment and 
professionalism of the Reserves, an integral part of the Total Force.
  I commend the Reserves' commitment to the nation's defense, and I 
salute the dedicated members of the RIROA on this historic 
occasion.

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