The Second Continental Congress established the Army June 14, 1775; it is the oldest service of the United States military. Originally formed to protect the freedom of the first 13 colonies, the Army has evolved and grown from this small militia into a powerful fighting force. We hope the stories below inspire you to dig deeper and learn more about the history and importance of the United States Army.

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FEATURED VETERANS:

BOB MISEVICH: Vietnam War Combat Medic

Army Spec-5 Bob Misevich served as a combat medic during the Tet Offensive in the Vietnam War, earning three bronze stars. His Honor Flight experience is one he cherishes to this day. Click on the image below to download the PDF with its embedded resources!

Luis Rodriguez: Vietnam War 101st Airborne

Army staff sergeant E-6 Luis “Obed” Rodriguez served with the 101st Airborne Nomads during the Tet Offensive in the Vietnam War. He is a Puerto Rican immigrant and Purple Heart Recipient. Click on the image below to download the PDF with its embedded resources!

CHARLIE HARTLEY: WWII Army Corps of Engineers

Army Corporal Charlie Hartley served in the Army Corps of Engineers during World War II in the pacific Theater. He was a member of the occupation force in Japan. Click on the image below to download the PDF with its embedded resources!

MARTIN GARCIA: Korean War BAR Man

Army Tec 5 Martin Garcia served as a BAR man and driver in the Philippines and Japan during the Korean War. He is originally from Texas. Click on the image below to download the PDF with its embedded resources!

KEN HIRATA: From Internment Camp to Service

Army Sergeant Ken Hirata served in engineering and maintenance during the Korean War. As a teenager during WWII, he and his Japanese-American family were sent to internment camps. Click on the image below to download the PDF with its embedded resources!

MARY ARVIDSON: Master Chief

Master Chief Petty Officer Mary Arvidson served in the Army from 1973 and then the Navy until her retirement in 2012. She performed intelligence work and was stationed in both Germany and England. Click on the image below to download the PDF with its embedded resources!

HAROLD WEIR: WWII Purple Heart Recipient

U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Harold Weir served in Europe during World War II. He was struck eight times by enemy fire, but survived his wounds, subsequent capture, and five months as a POW in the infamous Stalag 17.  Click on the image below to download the PDF with its embedded resources!

ARTHUR CHAVEZ: Vietnam War Huey Crew Chief

Army SP-4 Arthur Chavez served in Vietnam as the crew chief for a Huey in the 57th Assault Helicopter unit. After losing his brother in Vietnam he was inspired to volunteer. Click on the image below to download the PDF with its embedded resources!

CLYDE WILSON: Silver Star in Vietnam

Army Captain Clyde Wilson served during the Vietnam War and in the reserves afterwards. He was awarded the Silver Star for his leadership and bravery after taking leadership of his old platoon while attempting to deliver paychecks. Click on the image below to download the PDF with its embedded resources!

WALLACE ALCORN: US Army Chaplain

US Army Chaplain Wallace Alcorn served as a military police and a chaplain for over 60 years. He has retired but still acts as an Army chaplain and serves in a special capacity. Click on the image below to download the PDF with its embedded resources!

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:

Our Operation Education volunteers have compiled resources to commemorate many different months on the academic and American calendars. Click the link below to explore more!