Every life matters. Every Soldier matters. The holiday season can be a difficult time for many. Between the gatherings and celebrations, make time to check in on your Soldiers, your battle buddies, and your loved ones. A phone call, a text, or a simple conversation can make all the difference. Know the signs. Start the conversation. Be the one who reaches out. If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available 24/7 through the Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1. You are not alone. (U.S. Army Reserve 📽️ by: Sgt. Cameron Hershberger, Sgt. 1st Class Abel Aungst, Mr. Calvin Reimold, Maj. James Kim and Col. Simon Flake)

In FY24, we lost 28 Soldiers in vehicle-related incidents—most while off duty. That’s not just a number. It’s a warning. Safety isn’t a formality. It’s leadership. Whether you’re in uniform or not, behind the wheel or on mission, the standard starts with you. We train to shoot, move, and communicate—but none of it matters without safety. From the range to the road, safety is the thread that connects precision to mission success. Every Soldier is a safety leader. See something. Say something. Correct it. Continue the mission. Your readiness is our readiness. Your safety is our strength.

Seventy-five Reserve Soldiers from around the nation compete in the 2025 Best Squad Competition, an annual event bringing together the best Soldiers and squads from across the U.S. Army Reserve to earn the title of "Best Warrior" and "Best Squad" among their peers. This series offers behind-the-scenes highlights of the competitors, offering their perspectives as they progress throughout the competition. (U.S. Army Reserve video by Sgt. Cameron Hershberger)