Use of Reserve Component Supply and Service Units During Major Refugee Buildup at Fort Chaffee, Arkansas, 1975

In May 1975, refugees caused by the fall of the Republic of Vietnam, and Reserve Component supply and service units arrived simultaneously at Fort Chaffee, Arkansas. This participant observer thesis is based upon analysis of background material on Vietnam, available documentation on Fort Chaffee, and the active Army task force which supported the refugees. Documentation, historical reports, personal observations, evaluation reports, and assorted personal papers used by the author while evaluating those supply and service units were also used. Active Training-1975 provided a special training environment for Reserve Component supply and service units. The combination of normal site support for Reserve Component summer training coupled with requirements caused by the major refugee buildup provided a constantly changing workload that tested the capabilities of these units to the maximum. The results indicate that national policy may dictate utilization of Department of Defense resources in support of international refugees and/or domestic displaced persons at a future date. The experience gained from accomplishments of the Reserve Component supply and service units at Fort Chaffee should be evaluated when considering resources for such a mission in the future. The current evaluation system coupled with suggested training for use in emergencies can insure readiness that would be required. Selection of emergency centers with prepositioned equipment would provide the base in which Reserve Components could provide the service when needed. Active Training-1975 at Fort Chaffee clearly demonstrated that Reserve Component supply and service units have the capability and flexibility to perform multiple site support missions. They are a valuable national resource available for utilization when needed.