Fifty years ago today, the military draft ended—creating the All-Volunteer Force. On this historic anniversary, we recognize all the brave women and men who have raised their hand to serve. And together, we recommit to sustaining and strengthening our force for decades to come—including by demonstrating our support for our service members and our veterans, as well as their families, caregivers, and survivors.

The success of the All-Volunteer Force was not inevitable. Fifty years ago, there were questions as to whether we could attract the talent our military needed, or whether Americans would answer the call to serve. But today, we see so clearly that the eleven million women and men who have joined active-duty service over the last five decades—and the four million more who have joined our National Guard and Reserve forces—are the reason why our military remains the greatest fighting force in the history of the world. At our bases, outposts, and vessels around the world, these women and men have stepped up to answer freedom’s call, many of whom have volunteered for multiple combat tours. They have taken on our nation’s toughest missions—risking their own safety to protect the safety of their fellow Americans. And, year after year, they have made our nation stronger and more secure.

To keep our force strong and ready to meet the challenges and deter the threats of the future, we must continue to recruit the best of American talent and draw on the contributions of every qualified patriot who raises their hand to serve.  That’s why my Administration has been focused on honoring our promises to our service members and veterans, as well as their families, caregivers, and survivors.  Earlier this year, I directed the Department of Defense to review pay and benefits for our military members—because our force and their families deserve a 21st century compensation system that reflects their service and sacrifice. Last month, I signed an Executive Order that establishes the most comprehensive set of administrative actions in decades to support the economic security of military and veteran spouses, caregivers, and survivors. .