The army reserves – a proud long tradition

The Army Reserves can trace its beginning back to 1908 when the Army was
authorized by Congress to establish a reserve corps of medical officers.

This was that nation’s first federal reserve and within four years, a regular
Army Reserve would be authorized, as well.

The first time that the Army Reserve would be called to service was during
the 1916 tensions between Mexico and the United States.
The purpose of the call up was to provide additional strength in numbers.
This first mobilization was a very important development and showed
the potential for the Army Reserve.

The National Defense Act of 1916 would establish the Officers and Enlisted Reserve Corps,
as well as the Reserve Officers Training Corps. When America entered World War I,
there are over 50,000 reservists. Just one decade earlier, there had been none.
By the end of the war, the reservists who served would number over 170,000.
Since that time, Army Reservists have participated in every major conflict involving the United States.
Only about 11,000 couldn’t serve, with some being too old or serving as Congressmen and judges.

There were many Army Reservists who would become well known for their military services.
Theodore Roosevelt was the first general to land on D-Day. Ronald Regan would serve during World War II,
but his fame would come later in life. By the end of the war, over half of the soldiers fighting
would be from the Army Reserve.

During the Korean War, almost a quarter of a million Reservists would be called to duty.
While this war was still ongoing, Congress started changing the structure of the Army Reserve.
There would now be three types of Reservists – the Ready Reserve, the Standby Reserve, and
the Retired Reserve. The President would have the authority to call up
one million Reservists – from all branches of the Armed Forces – to active duty when necessary.

Vietnam would see the smallest numbers of Reservists called up, but there were still 33 Reserve units
deployed to this conflict. The next major call up would be in 1990, with the invasion of Kuwait.
Over 84,000 Army Reservists were called up and supported all branches of the Armed Forces
in locations around the world.

Since that time, the Army Reserve has almost always been engaged somewhere around the world.
Deployments have included Iraq, Somalia, Haiti, Bosnia, and Yugoslavia. Currently,
there are thousands of Army Reservists serving in Iraq and Afghanistan.

If you or a loved one has served in the Army Reserve, then you should consider honoring that service
with an Army ring. One of the best things about these rings is that they can be customized for each
individual soldier. You can choose between several precious metals, semi-precious stones, insignia and
emblems, and even engraving on the inside of band.

It’s easy to order an Army ring online and you can have it shipped almost anywhere in the world.
There is no better gift for a loved one whose service, dedication, and sacrifice have
helped keep this country safe.

We source and sell a range of Army \Military Gifts, please click here for more information.

Army military intelligence: collection, analysis, processing, and dissemination of information

The USAICoE stands for the United States Army Intelligence of Excellence.
It’s the Army’s school for training their military intelligence personnel.
It has been located at Fort Huachuca, Arizona since 1993 after moving
from Fort Devens, MA. Any enlisted personnel or officers who are
in the military intelligence field attend this school, as well as many
international students in military exchange programs.

AIT students who attend school here become Human Intelligence Collectors,
Intelligence Analysts, and UAV controllers. Other personnel may be
a member of the Military Intelligence Corps. Military Intelligence utilizes
a number of different information collection and analysis mediums to commanders
in order to help guide and offer direction in the commander’s decisions.

Available data is used to determine a course of action or to provide an answer to focused questions.
The commander’s specific needs for intelligence are considered and then incorporated into
the intelligence collection process, as well as the analysis and dissemination of the information.

There are several different types of military intelligence – strategic, operational, and tactical.
Strategic intelligence deals with political assessments, economics, and foreign nations’ intentions and
military capabilities. It could be tactical, technical, scientific, diplomatic, or sociological,
but all of the information is used in conjunction with known facts, such as demographics, geography, and
industrial capacities.

Operational intelligence is more focused on support for an expeditionary commander.
Tactical intelligence supports operations on a tactical level. Personnel in this area of military
intelligence are usually attached to headquarters. Current threat levels are scrutinized and
this information is then passed onto those that will be out into hostile territories.

Intelligence tasking will focus on a number of different variables, with the common goal to be the collection,
analysis, processing, and dissemination of information that will ultimately influence planning and
operational strategy. A great deal of information is available to the public, such as the tonnage and
weaponry of most capital ships. The same is true for aircraft. Photographs can project speed and
range, maps can be used for various information gathering tactics, and counter-intelligence services
make sure that some information available to our enemies will lead them down a misrepresented path.
However, the media continues to be a primary source of information, as well.

Many people have a common misconception when it comes to the Army Military Intelligence Group.
It is not full of spies and James Bond-like gadgets. Information gathering comes from a number of simple and
complex sources, each of which must be verified for its authenticity.
Today’s Army military intelligence is one of the most impressive units in the United States Military.

It helps protect our country against threats, both foreign and domestic.The USAICoE stands for
the United States Army Intelligence of Excellence. It’s the Army’s school for training their
military intelligence personnel. It has been located at Fort Huachuca, Arizona since 1993 after
moving from Fort Devens, MA. Any enlisted personnel or officers who are in the military intelligence
field attend this school, as well as many international students in military exchange programs.
AIT students who attend school here become Human Intelligence Collectors, Intelligence Analysts, and
UAV controllers. Other personnel may be a member of the Military Intelligence Corps.

Military Intelligence utilizes a number of different information collection and analysis mediums to
commanders in order to help guide and offer direction in the commander’s decisions.
Available data is used to determine a course of action or to provide an answer to focused questions.
The commander’s specific needs for intelligence are considered and then incorporated into the intelligence
collection process, as well as the analysis and dissemination of the information.

There are several different types of military intelligence – strategic, operational, and tactical.
Strategic intelligence deals with political assessments, economics, and foreign nations’ intentions and
military capabilities.

It could be tactical, technical, scientific, diplomatic, or sociological, but all of the information
is used in conjunction with known facts, such as demographics, geography, and industrial capacities.
Operational intelligence is more focused on support for an expeditionary commander.
Tactical intelligence supports operations on a tactical level. Personnel in this area of military intelligence
are usually attached to headquarters. Current threat levels are scrutinized and this information is
then passed onto those that will be out into hostile territories.

Intelligence tasking will focus on a number of different variables, with the common goal to be the collection,
analysis, processing, and dissemination of information that will ultimately influence planning and
operational strategy. A great deal of information is available to the public, such as the tonnage and
weaponry of most capital ships. The same is true for aircraft. Photographs can project speed and
range, maps can be used for various information gathering tactics, and counter-intelligence services
make sure that some information available to our enemies will lead them down a misrepresented path.
However, the media continues to be a primary source of information, as well.

Many people have a common misconception when it comes to the Army Military Intelligence Group.
It is not full of spies and James Bond-like gadgets. Information gathering comes from a number of simple and
complex sources, each of which must be verified for its authenticity. Today’s Army military intelligence
is one of the most impressive units in the United States Military. It helps protect our country against threats,
both foreign and domestic.

If you or a loved one have served in the Army’s Military Intelligence Division, then consider honoring
this service with a beautiful Army ring. Show off the insignia of your unit by having it engraved on the
side of one of the many styles of Army rings or even under a semi-precious stone on the top.
These Army rings are gorgeous reminder of the service and sacrifice of all soldiers and will likely
become a treasured family heirloom.

If you or a loved one have served in the Army’s Military Intelligence Division, then consider honoring this
service with a Army ring. Show off the insignia of your unit by having it engraved on the side of one of the
many styles of Army rings or even under a semi-precious stone on the top. These Army rings are gorgeous
reminder of the service and sacrifice of all soldiers and will likely become a treasured family heirloom.

For more information on Army rings, click here

The History of the United States Army Band

Even before the United States Army was created in 1775,  musicians have had
an integral role in the military.From the drummers in the Signal Corps
during the Revolutionary War to the World War II brass bands, music has
always been part of the Army.

The United States Army Band members fulfill a special need in today’s
Army – they make music while serving their country.Some performances
are for ceremonial reasons, while other performances may be to help boost
the soldiers’ morale. The history of the United States Army band is long and proud.

The first military band for America was commanded by none other than Benjamin Franklin.
Fife players and various other musicians marched with over 1,000 soldiers.
This was the first documented appearance of musicians in the military.
There were also several regiments in the Army that performed for ceremonies and other special occasions.

During the Revolutionary War in 1775, the musicians created the steady, pounding rhythms that
helped the new milita to drill. The colonists used military bands to play patriotic arrangements
at rallies to increase support as the war intensified. Some battles, such as the Battle of Bennington,
may have been successful due to the musicians playing well into enemy positions.

By 1777, drums and trumpets were used to control the movements of cavalry regiments. Many times,
drum calls were used instead of verbal commands. The soldiers learned to respond to the beat of the drum.
In 1781, musicians such as drummers and fifers were picked from the ranks and were then exempt
from soldierly duties. During the 1830s, brass instruments were add and it really changed the overall
sound and the size of the band. With a salary of only $8.00 a month for bandsmen,
there was never any shortage of men signing up for this musical duty.

During the Civil War from 1861-1865, the military grew to rely more on military musicians to position
troops and motivate them on to victory. They entertained troops and raised morale.
In fact, some musicians actually played a form of concert while they were in the foremost position
during a battle.

By the 1920s, the Army had implemented a band training program in an attempt to rival the military
bands of Great Britain and France. General John J.

Pershing believed that this training program was essential to helping create an Army Band that would keep
morale high. In fact, one of the most prestigious Army bands to day is called “Pershing’s Own.”
The training was designed by the New York Symphony conductor at the time.
General Pershing’s most significant change in the United States Army band was the increase in members
from 28 to 48, which gave the band a full instrumentation that still exists today.

Through next sixty years, the Army bands would go through even more changes.
These bands would accompany combat units during the Korean and Vietnam Wars.
During Desert Strom and Desert Shield, the bands performed many ceremonies and concerts,
but also helped guard the perimeters. Today, the Army Bands perform for both soldiers and civilians alike.

One of the best ways to recognize a member of this elite group of musical soldiers is with an Army Band ring.
You can create a personalized Army Band ring that any Army musician would be proud to wear.
You can order an Army Band ring online and have it delivered anywhere in the world.

For more information on Army Gifts, click here

The History of the Signal Corps

The Signal Corps owes its origins to Albert James Myer.
This Army doctor invented a unique visual communication system,
known as the “wigwag” when he was serving in Texas during 1856.

This system of flags and torch lights would be put to use during
the Civil War when it was used to direct the bombing of
Confederate positions at Fort Calhoun.

In 1863, Congress finally authorized the Signal
Corps as an active unit until the end of the war.
In 1870, the Signal Corps took on another role as a national weather service.
By 1880, this weather service would garner international acclaim.

The weather service would remain under the command of the Signal Corps until 1891, when
the Department of Agriculture took it over.
The Signal Corps would still be in charge of military meteorology.

The Spanish-American War of 1898 would see the Signal Corps used much more than
it was during the Civil War. However, the Signal Corps did much more than just use flags and
torches to convey messages. In addition to those visual signals,
they were tasked with supplying telegraph and telephone lines, integrating the use of telephones in
combat situations, and used photography for combat purposes.
After the war ended, the Signal Corps were responsible for bringing the first wireless telegraph
system into the Western Hemisphere.

In 1907, the Chief Signal Officer was put in charge of an Aeronautical Division.
The Wright brothers conducted several test flights of the first airplane the Army used and
it was built to the specifications lined out by the Signal Corps. In 1918, the Army turned over this
Aeronautical Division to the Army Air Service.

By World War 1, the Signal Corps were developing radiotelephones. These were infinitely superior
to the radiotelegraphs, the telegraph and telephone were the main means of communications
during World War 1. In 1937, the then-director of the Signal Corps patented the first radar used by the Army.
Before World War II, there were already two sets of radar units in mass production.
By the Vietnam War, the Signal Corps provided radio links that could communicate more than 200 miles apart.

Today, the motto for the Signal Corps remains the same as it was over a hundred years ago:
“Watchful for the Country.” New developments in technology and innovation continue every year.
The Signal Corps fulfill the need for effective, reliable communication in all areas of the military.
They have come a very long way since using flags during the daylight hours and torches at night.
The Signal Corps laboratory is one of the most advanced for the development of communications,
radar, mapping, and photography technology.

For those that are assigned to the Signal Corps, the assignment comes with pride and honor,
as well as responsibility. A fantastic way to recognize this service and dedication is with one of
the beautiful Signal Corps rings that are available.

A Signal Corps ring will become a treasured heirloom that is sure to be passed on to children and
grandchildren.

For more information on Signal corps rings, click here

The Long, Proud History of the Army Ranger

The term “Ranger” was first used in what would become the United States back in the 17^th century. The first Ranger Companyofficially began in 1676. Rangers fought in many different wars, including the American Revolution, The War of 1812, and every war the United States was involved in afterwards. What most people consider to be “today’s” Army Rangers were authorized in 1942 by General Marshall. There are currently six Ranger battalions and they have played an important role in Korea, Vietnam, Iraq, and Afghanistan. They were also vital to the successes of other conflicts like Grenada and Panama.

The long and proud history of the United States Army Rangers officially began when George Washington ordered Thomas Knowlton, a Lieutenant Colonel in the Army, to personally select men for reconnaissance missions. This unit was called Knowlton’s Rangers, but it actually was more centered on gathering intelligence than for combat. This group of Rangers became the Military Intelligence Branch.

During the Civil War, two units of Rangers, one for the Confederate Army and one for the Union Army would become somewhat famous. Mosby’s Rangers often raided deep within Union territory, capturing high-ranking officers and disrupting supply lines. The Union’s Mean’s Rangers were best known for capturing a Confederate ammunition train. Eventually, Mean’s Rangers captured part of Mosby’s Rangers after a long, hard fought battle.

The next century would see two World Wars and multiple conflicts which would put the Army Rangers to the test. From the beach at Normandy to the jungles of Vietnam, there have been a number of different Ranger Battalions. During Vietnam and Korea, the Ranger units were organized as companies and were part of larger units. These were considered special operations units. During the Korean War, the Rangers patrolled, scouted, and attacked the North Korean enemy. During the Vietnam War, the Rangers were tasked with the same duties, but were paramount in the success of reconnaissance behind enemy lines. They planned and directed air strikes, conducted ambushes, assessed the damage from frequent bombing in enemy territory, and provided snipers where needed.

By the end of the Vietnam War, it was evident that the United States Army needed an elite, rapid response light infantry. The 1^st and 2^nd Ranger Battalions were created. This combination of elite airborne infantry and special operations is highly trained, very flexible, and can be deployed anywhere in the world within a matter of hours. Today, the Army Rangers are deployed on the War on Terror, with units in Iraq and Afghanistan. The 75^th Ranger Regiment is one of only a handful of units that has had members continuously deployed to Afghanistan and Iraq.

There is no doubt the Army Rangers are an important part of the United States Armed Forces. One of the best ways to say thank you for their service, dedication, and sacrifice is with one of the many styles of Army Ranger rings. These rings are a beautiful visual reminder of what it means to be an Army Ranger.

The 8th marine regiment: ground pounding infantry

Based out of Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, the 8^th Marine Regiment is under
the command of the 2^nd Marine Division.

This infantry regiment was formed in 1917 in Quantico, Virginia during World War I.
While in training for this war, the command was actually transferred to Fort Crockett,
Texas. Its duties included guarding the Mexican Oil Fields.

The 9^th Marines joined the men of the 8^th Marines and formed the 3^rd Marine Brigade.
It was the first Advance Base Force of World War I. Because of this designation,
these Marines did  not see action during World War I, but were tasked with defending naval bases
in the West Indies should this action be need. In 1919, the 8^th Marines were deactivated.

A year later, the 8^th Marines were reactivated and deployed to Haiti to fight the Cacos bandits.
Through patrols and some intermittent clashes, the 8^th was able to eliminate these bandits that had been
in place for over a hundred years. Once this mission was finished, the 8^th Marines were deactivated
yet again in 1925. This time it would be fifteen years before they would be reactivated again.

In 1940, the 8^th Marines were deployed Samoa for jungle training. These brave men would travel
to Guadalcanal to assist the 1^st Marine Division and earn their first Presidential Unit Citation.
The second citation would come after the 8^th Marines seized New Zealand after 76 hours
of some of the bloodiest and deadliest fighting in American history.
This battle effectively opened the door to Japan. After this deployment, the 8^th Marines would travel
to Saipan and Tinian, which resulted in the capturing of these key bases.
This lead to an effective air war against Japan.

During the 1980s, the 8^th Marines would participate in Operation Urgent Fury,
which resulted in the rescue of American students in Grenada. From 1990 to the present,
the 8^th Marines have participated in every operation in the Persian Gulf, including Desert Storm,
Iraq Freedom, and Enduring Freedom.

The 8^th Marines would be responsible for securing many of the cities in Iraq and Afghanistan.
This led to the elections in Iraq, a great turning point for the Iraqi people. Currently,
the 8^th Marines are deployed to Afghanistan and that current deployment is expected to last until 2012.

If you have a loved one serving in the 8^th Marines, what better way to show your support than
with one of the many styles of Army rings? A fantastic visual reminder of your loved one’s service and
dedication, the insignia of the 8^th Marines can be highlighted on the either side of the ring.

You can also have the insignia placed under the semi-precious stone. These Army rings are certain to
be well-received and you can easily personalize this Army ring with an engraved message inside the band.
Ordering online is easy and you can have the Army ring shipped almost anywhere in the world.
Imagine the surprise when your Marine opens up that box and sees his or her personally designed Army ring!

For more information about Military Gifts, click here

Military Rings

We depend on them for our safety and security
so now is the time to show
our respect for those brave warriors that put their lives on the line month
after month and year after year.

Military rings are a very simple and unique way of showing
our gratitude to someone special and this simple ring can
one day turn into a treasured family heirloom.

From the many designs and images available you can create and
design a stunning piece of military jewelry and an Military ring fit for a king.

The complete selection of Balfour images and designs are available in our shop
and these will allow you the opportunity to design an Military ring in about ten minutes.
Simply follow the instructions in the shop, insert the information required and
also use the drop down menu to create the perfect Military ring.

Military Rings Available;

• Infantry Rings
• Cavalry Rings
• Transportation Rings
• Ordnance Rings
• Engineers Rings
• Field Artillery Rings
• Airborne Rings
• Military Police Rings
• Aviation
• Operation Iraqi Freedom
• Operation Enduring Freedom
• Operation Desert Storm
• Vietnam

Military rings can be further personalized by inserting the name of the soldier
on the right or left side and important dates of a special campaign or deployment
can also be added. The top of the Military ring offers the opportunity to
select a stone that will reflect the birth month of the soldier and in this
chart you can see what those colors represent.

When you proceed to the online shop to create your Military ring there is so
much more you can do to personalize you ring to create a gift that will be treasured for a life time.

From the left shank to the right shank, you cam custom design your ring with images of insignia s
that will record your military career from day one. The details such as your name,
dates of service or special dates from deployments  can be engraved on the sides also.

All rings come with a lifetime warranty which is indicative of the quality of your Balfour Military Ring.

Balfour are renowned for their quality rings, and by clicking on the shop image
above you can start designing your own ring today!

We source and sell a range of Military Gifts, please see more here