Constituent Perceptions of the United States Army Reserve: Current Status andFuture Impact

摘要

This study examines current perceptions of the United States Army Reserve amongfive identified constituencies: the Department of Defense; the Executive Branch of Government; the Congress; the public; and the media. 'Perceptions' are described as distinguishable from objective and measurable facts, with the dynamics of the decision-making process reflecting that it is perceptions, rather than facts, which often form the bases for decisions affecting United States Army Reserve force structure, procurements, training and administrative resources. The study reviews published constituent observations regarding the Army Reserve, looking at both positive and negative opinions of USAR readiness, mobilization preparedness, mission effectiveness and organizational leadership. Included in these observations are some striking examples of negative perceptions of the Army Reserve, held at even the highest levels of the Department of the Army. Such examples question, at a minimum, the effectiveness and continued viability of the 'One Army' concept. The importance of constituent perceptions is then examined within specific historical parameters with emphasis on the favorable impact of correspondingly favorable impressions on real-world decisions.