Reserve Officers Association of the United States (ROA)

The Reserve Officers Association of the United States, now also known as the Reserve Organization of America, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and advocating for the Reserve Components of the United States Armed Forces.

Formation and History

Founded on October 2, 1922, by veterans of World War I, including General of the Armies John J. "Black Jack" Pershing, the organization aimed to prevent the United States from returning to the state of unreadiness that preceded World War I[1][2]. The ROA was chartered by Congress in 1950 through Public Law 595, with the objective of supporting and promoting a military policy for the U.S. that provides adequate national security[1][2]. During World War II, ROA became inactive but was reactivated in 1946. The organization merged with the Reserve Officers of the Naval Services in 1948 and expanded to include the Marine Corps and Coast Guard around the same time[1].

Membership and Structure

ROA membership is open to all federally commissioned officers, warrant officers, non-commissioned officers, enlisted personnel, and their spouses from the Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Navy, Marine Corps, U.S. Public Health Service, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration[1][3]. The organization has approximately 63,000 members[1]. It is structured into 55 departments covering all 50 states, plus international departments in Latin America, Europe, the Far East, and Puerto Rico, with over 300 chapters worldwide[1].

Advocacy and Legislative Priorities

ROA serves as a voice for Reserve Components, focusing on legislative priorities such as fully funding equipment and training for the National Guard and Reserves, providing adequate resources for recruiting and retention, and supporting service members, their families, and survivors[1]. The organization seeks to ensure the Reserve and National Guard maintain a key role in national defense both domestically and internationally[1].

International Involvement

ROA is involved in international organizations such as the Interallied Confederation of Reserve Officers (CIOR), the Interallied Confederation of Reserve Medical Officers (CIOMR), and the Pan American Union of Reserve Officers of the Armed Forces (UPORFA)[1]. These organizations host annual events in Europe and South America.

Tax Status and Recognition

The ROA is a 501(c)(19) veterans' organization and holds a congressional charter[1]. It is recognized for its contributions to national security and readiness, celebrating its centennial in 2022[2][4].

Current Activities

Today, ROA continues to advocate for the needs of Reserve service members, addressing unique challenges they face while balancing civilian and military commitments. The organization actively pursues legislation to support these needs and educates policymakers and the public on the importance of the Reserve Components[4].