The Citizen Soldier
These artifacts from the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Coast Guard illuminate the experience of the citizen soldier in American history.
Today’s volunteer army consists of soldiers who have a strong sense of civic responsibility and patriotism, and have responded to the incentives that our country has provided for their training, education, and support. History points to how the citizen soldier role has evolved alongside both the nation’s greater culture and international affairs. Today the United States’ military consists of both National Guard and Reserve units as well as a full-time standing force of volunteers.