Milestones Worth Sharing and Celebrating

By Laura M. Levering, Editor, U.S. Army Signal School

Article published on: April 1, 2025, in the Army Communicator Spring 2025 Edition

Read Time: < 3 mins

Laura M. Levering Editor, U.S. Army Signal School

The U.S. Army is celebrating a substantial milestone this year, as June 14 will mark the Army’s 250th birthday. The theme for this year’s celebration, “This We’ll Defend,” is intended to highlight the Army’s objective of fighting and winning our nation’s wars. From the Revolutionary War (1775) through current missions that are often unseen, Soldiers (and civilians) have dedicated themselves to protecting the freedom of this nation both stateside and abroad. As much as the Army is about protecting its land and people, it is also about offering opportunities to those who serve.

The Army of 2025 is a far cry from the Army of the Revolutionary War days. With more than 200 career choices for Soldiers and more than 500 career paths available to civilians, those who serve are also presented with opportunities to grow (personally and professionally), travel to places they might not otherwise have an opportunity to see, meet people from all walks of life, make a lasting impact, and so much more. Speaking of impact, did you know that the Army is behind some of the world’s most notable inventions?

While skimming through the U.S. Army Facebook page recently, I came across the article, “Did you know the Army invented this?” Super glue, the first computer, and two-way portable radios are just a few items on the list. There is so much to be proud of as members of the greatest Army in the world, and this barely touches the surface. Then there is the Signal Corps, which will be celebrating 165 years. As someone whose background is Army public affairs, I will forever be proud of (and thankful for) the branch that provided me with a foundation, instilled immense pride in me, and taught me more about the Army than I could have previously imagined possible.

Throughout my career, I have encountered and written about countless Soldiers across multiple military occupational specialties – some more unique than others. I don’t know if it’s because I’ve worked the Signal Corps the longest/most consistently, but out of all the branches I’ve covered, I have never been met with one that exudes as much pride as the Signal Corps. I share this partly because although I will never be signal, in the few years that I have been in this position, one thing that I have taken on is a sense of pride that comes with it. I am proud to have started out my service as a Soldier. I am proud to have been able to tell the stories of Soldiers doing some of the toughest jobs they were called to do and missions fulfilled. I am proud to have been the trusted voice of the widows-turned-friends whose Soldier paid the ultimate sacrifice. And now I am proud to help keep the Signal Regiment alive through the Army Communicator (and other platforms) by assisting with “getting the message through” – your message. It is an important role that I do not take lightly.

Each of you has a story to tell. Next quarter’s themes are intended to bring out those stories. As we celebrate the Army and the Signal Corps birthdays, think about what makes you proud to be a Soldier/Signaleer. Put those thoughts to pen/paper (keyboard to Word doc.), and send them to me. Soldiers are some of the most proud yet humble humans. Let the pride shine through and share those stories!