Chief, Army Reserve honored by Reserve Officers Association with Minuteman award

Army Reserve Magazine, Winter, 2005 by Jack Gordon

NEW YORK -- LTG James R. Helmly, Chief, Army Reserve and commanding general, U.S. Army Reserve Command, was presented the Reserve Officer Association (ROA) "Minuteman" award for 2005, along with Rear Admiral Robert J. Papp, Jr., commander 9th Coast Guard District.

"I thought I saw some puzzled looks when, during the service anthems, I remained standing. I must tell you I'm immensely proud to be an American Soldier," Helmly told more than 500 guests gathered for the annual, national convention. The comment drew a rousing round of applause.

"But I am equally proud to be among America's Armed Forces, and so I chose to stand in order to pay tribute to all our Armed Services," said Helmly. The applause increased fourfold as representatives from the other service branches represented joined in.

Part of the pride Helmly was feeling was no doubt being the recipient of this prestigious award. In 2002, the ROA had selected President George W. Bush for the award.

As he is prone to, Helmly quickly placed the true honor on those in uniform now serving America's armed forces abroad in the world's many danger zones. Having returned only days prior from a tour of Army Reserve mission sites in both Iraq and Afghanistan, his recent memories from experiences with those on duty in the mountains and desert were fresh.

"I'm indeed humbled and honored to receive this award on behalf of America's sons and daughters--those who populate the United States Army, Air Force, Navy, Marines and Coast Guard. We are richly served by all these great Americans," Helmly said.

"These sons and daughters of America are serving us proudly and with courage and distinction in every corner of every dangerous area on the planet. I know the Reserve Officers Association will continue to champion the cause of our Armed Forces, so ... I am deeply honored to accept this award--it's one of the highlights of my life."