The Association of the United States Army (AUSA) came into being on July 5, 1950 when the Army’s senior leadership identified a need for the Army to put aside internal parochialism and speak with one voice in the best interest of the Army and the nation.

Two organizations — the Infantry Association and the Field Artillery Association — came together under the AUSA banner. On January 1, 1955, the Antiaircraft Association became a part of AUSA, extending the initial steps taken toward a single voice for the Army.

For over 50 years, the Association of the U.S. Army has stood as the nation’s voice for the United States Army — men and women; active, guard, and reserve; civilian employees; retirees; family members; friends of the Army. One hundred thirty-two chapters across America (and literally around the world) bring America’s Army to the American people and, at the same time, serve as a voice for America’s Army in the Halls of Congress.

Today, AUSA remains involved in many issues important to the men and women who serve this nation at home and abroad and the families they must so often leave behind. Additionally, AUSA serves as a conduit for communication between industry and the Army.

AUSA’s primary role, however, is that of educator. Professional meetings, symposia and a library of written, visual, and on-line information is available to the Army professional and the general public. Testimony, information papers, and other publications are frequently provided to Congress. Among other issues, AUSA works to highlight the need for adequate defense funding, equitable pay, access to quality health care, and a fair retirement system. AUSA continues to promote the interests of the United States Army and, in the final analysis, the United States.