The United States Army is a military organization whose primary mission is to "provide necessary forces and capabilities … in support of the National Security and Defense Strategies."

It is the largest and oldest established branch of the armed forces of  the United States. Like all armies, its primary responsibility was for land-based military operations. The modern Army has its roots in the Continental Army which was formed on June 14, 1775, before the establishment of the United States, to meet the demands of the Revolutionary War. Congress created the United States Army on June 14,1784 after the end of the war to replace the disbanded Continental Army. 

As of July 31st, 2008, the Regular Army reported a strength of 538,128 soldiers, the Army National Guard(ARNG) reported 350,000 and the United States Army Reserve (USAR) reported 189,000, putting the approximate combined total at around 1,077,000 soldiers.

The training in the US Army is basically 9 weeks for Basic Combat Training, but if you wish to specialize in one category, such as being an Army Ranger, training is extended as needed. Soldiers are primarily equipped with the M16 series assault rifle or the M4 carbine, and they can attach the M203 grenade launcher for extra fire power and the M9 bayonet for close quarters combat. In addition to these, there are many other firearms for specialized units.

The Army was formed to protect the rights of the people and that can be seen in their rigorous disciplinary measures. It also shows itself in their code of honor

In the mid- to late 1990s, the Army officially adopted what have come to be known as "The 7 Army Core Values." The Army began to teach these values as basic  traits of soldiers. The seven Army Core Values are as follows:

1. Loyalty - Bear true faith and allegiance to the U.S. Constitution, the Army, your unit, and fellow Soldiers.


2. Duty - Fulfill your obligations.


3. Respect - Treat others as they should be treated.


4. Selfless Service - Put the welfare of the nation, the Army, and your subordinates before your own.


5. Honor - Live the Army Values.


6. Integrity - Do what's right, both legally and morally.


7. Personal Courage - Face fear, danger, or adversity, both physical and moral.

The US Army was formed to protect the people and it is run by the people and always will be. Its troops are well trained to protect the oppressed and they uphold strict codes of discipline. Just look at their motto. "This We'll Defend."

For a video on the Army's basic training process, click here.

 Photo Courtesy of http://www.motherjones.com/

Sources- http://www.history.army.mil/faq/birth.htm

                 http://www.army.mil/

                http://www.army.mil/factfiles/equipment/individual/m4.html

                www.history.army.mil/lc/The%20Mission/the_seven_army_values.htm