About this Unit
NAVRESREDCOM Region Five, or Naval Reserve Readiness Command Region Five, was a key administrative command within the United States Navy Reserve. Established to oversee the readiness, training, and mobilization of Navy Reserve units and personnel across its designated geographic area, Region Five supported both peacetime and contingency operations. Throughout its existence, the command played a vital role in integrating reserve forces with active duty components, ensuring operational effectiveness during exercises and real-world deployments. As part of Navy Reserve restructuring in the early 2000s, NAVRESREDCOM Region Five was eventually disestablished and its functions absorbed into the new Navy Reserve Region Commands.
Historical Facts
•
Establishment and Mission: NAVRESREDCOM Region Five, or Navy Reserve Readiness Command Region Five, was established to manage, train, and support Navy Reserve units throughout its area of responsibility in the Midwestern United States.
•
Geographical Coverage: Region Five historically covered a large swath of the Midwest, including states like Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, and Wisconsin, making it one of the most geographically diverse regions.
•
Support During the Gulf War: Units within Region Five played a significant role in supporting Operation Desert Storm by mobilizing reservists and providing logistical and personnel support throughout the conflict.
•
Home to Historic Units: The region included some of the oldest Navy Reserve units, with lineages dating back to World War II and the Korean War.
•
Community Engagement: NAVRESREDCOM Region Five was known for its extensive community outreach programs, such as participating in local parades, career days, and public Navy Weeks to promote understanding of the Navy Reserve’s mission.
•
Key Role in 9/11 Response: After the September 11 attacks, personnel from Region Five were rapidly mobilized to support homeland defense and ongoing military operations abroad.
•
Training Innovations: Region Five was a leader in integrating advanced simulation and distance learning technologies, helping reservists remain ready for active duty requirements.
•
Merger and Reorganization: In the mid-2000s, NAVRESREDCOM Region Five was merged with other regions in a Navy-wide reserve reorganization, a move aimed at streamlining command and improving efficiency.
•
Notable Commanders: Several admirals who commanded Region Five went on to hold senior leadership positions in the Navy Reserve and active-duty Navy, reflecting the region’s importance as a leadership proving ground.
•
Legacy and Honors: The legacy of NAVRESREDCOM Region Five lives on through its successor commands, as well as numerous unit citations and individual decorations awarded to its reservists for meritorious service.
