Association of the United States Army

Association of the United States Army
Name	Association of the United States Army
Caption	AUSA logo
Formation	0 1950
Headquarters	Arlington, Virginia
Membership	~ 180,000
Leader title	President & CEO
Leader name	Gen. James C. McConville, USA (Ret.)
Website	https://www.ausa.org

Association of the United States Army. Founded in 1950, it is a nonprofit educational and professional development association serving the United States Army, United States Army Reserve, and Army National Guard. With a membership of approximately 180,000, it supports all components of the Total Army, including soldiers, Department of the Army civilians, retirees, and family members. The organization is headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, and operates as a key advocacy and networking forum for the American defense community.

History

The Association of the United States Army was established in 1950 through the merger of the Infantry Association and the Field Artillery Association, aiming to create a unified voice for the entire United States Army following the National Security Act of 1947. Its early years were shaped by the Korean War, during which it worked to bolster public and congressional support for a robust land force. Throughout the Cold War, AUSA expanded its role, organizing professional forums and publishing analyses on issues like the Pentagon's modernization efforts during the Vietnam War and the Reagan administration's military buildup. The Gulf War and subsequent operations in Afghanistan and Iraq saw the association intensify its focus on soldier welfare and equipment readiness, cementing its status as a permanent fixture in the Washington, D.C. policy landscape.

Organization and structure

The association is governed by a Board of Directors and led by a President and CEO, a position held by retired senior leaders like former Army Chief of Staff James C. McConville. Its national headquarters in Arlington, Virginia oversees a network of over 120 regional chapters located across the United States and in international locations such as Germany, South Korea, and Italy. These chapters are organized into geographic regions and are primarily run by volunteer soldiers, veterans, and civilians. Key internal components include the Institute of Land Warfare, which conducts research, and the AUSA Family Programs, which supports military families. The organization collaborates closely with entities like the United States Army Training and Doctrine Command and the Sergeants Major Academy.

Mission and activities

AUSA's core mission is to advocate for a combat-ready United States Army and to provide a platform for professional development and community support. Its flagship event is the annual AUSA Annual Meeting and Exposition in Washington, D.C., which attracts senior leaders from the Department of Defense, industry partners like Lockheed Martin and General Dynamics, and allied militaries. The association conducts numerous professional development forums, symposiums, and networking events throughout the year, often in partnership with commands like United States Army Forces Command and the United States Army Materiel Command. Community-focused activities include family readiness workshops, scholarship programs for soldiers' children, and support for installations such as Fort Bragg and Fort Hood.

Publications and media

The association is a major publisher of professional military content. Its flagship magazine, ARMY Magazine, provides monthly analysis on defense policy, technology, and Army history. The AUSA News newspaper offers current updates on association events and legislative issues. Through its Institute of Land Warfare, AUSA produces in-depth research papers, newsletters like ILW Spotlight, and digital content on topics ranging from cyber warfare to logistics. It also maintains a robust online presence with webinars, podcasts, and social media channels that feature insights from leaders like the Secretary of the Army and commanders from United States Army Europe and Africa.

Awards and recognition

AUSA administers a comprehensive awards program to honor excellence within the Total Army. Prestigious individual awards include the George Catlett Marshall Medal, presented for distinguished service, and the John W. Dixon Award for industry leadership. Unit awards, such as the Lyman L. Lemnitzer Award, recognize outstanding chapters. The association also bestows the Joseph P. Cribbins Medal for logistician excellence and the Creighton W. Abrams Medal for inspirational leadership. These awards are often presented at major events like the AUSA Annual Meeting or ceremonies at locations such as the Pentagon or the National Museum of the United States Army.

Advocacy and influence

The association serves as a powerful advocacy voice for the United States Army before the United States Congress, the Department of Defense, and the public. It publishes position papers and testimony on critical issues such as defense budgeting, military pay, healthcare for veterans, and modernization programs like the Next Generation Combat Vehicle. AUSA leaders regularly testify before committees including the House Armed Services Committee and engage with officials at the White House. Its influence is evident in sustained support for increased Army end strength, funding for installations like Fort Stewart, and policies benefiting the National Guard and Reserves.

Category:United States Army Category:Organizations based in Arlington, Virginia Category:Non-profit organizations based in the United States