2023 Assembly Joint Resolution 65
ENROLLED JOINT RESOLUTION
Relating to: honoring 50 years of volunteer service in the U.S. Armed Forces.
Whereas, on January 27, 1973, the U.S. military officially ended the draft and transitioned to an
all−volunteer force; and
Whereas, the U.S. Armed Forces have successfully fulfilled the military needs of the United
States in the 50 years since, solely on the basis of voluntary service; and
Whereas, an all−volunteer force has been used in all military conflicts since 1973, including
Operation Desert Storm, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Iraqi Freedom; and
Whereas, according to the U.S. Department of Defense, since the end of military conscription in
1973 more than 11 million have joined active duty service, and today more than 1.5 million men and
women serve across the total force; and
Whereas, voluntary service in the U.S. Armed Forces provides men and women with training,
career mobility, financial benefits, community, connection, and common purpose; and
Whereas, the U.S. Department of Defense reports that the U.S. military’s retention numbers are
“outstanding,” with every service exceeding 100 percent of its goals last year; and
Whereas, the all−volunteer Armed Forces are the most professional and capable military in the
world and have been instrumental in preserving the freedoms and values of the United States; and
Whereas, the volunteer service of the men and women in the U.S. Armed Forces represents a
tradition of patriotism and sacrifice that is a vital part of the American spirit; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the assembly, the senate concurring, That the members of the Wisconsin
Legislature recognize and honor the sacrifices, contributions, and achievements of those who have
volunteered to serve in the United States Armed Forces over the last 50 years.
Senator Chris Kapenga
President of the Senate
Representative Robin J. Vos
Speaker of the Assembly
Date
Edward A. Blazel
Assembly Chief Clerk