MARYSVILLE – Mayor Jon Nehring is glad to have the Army Reserve in town.

“We’re proud as a community to support the work you do,” he said Tuesday.

The Army Reserve was celebrating its birthday in 1908, but Nehring pointed out the facility in Marysville was born April 1, 2012. “You have a rich history and provide a tremendous service to this country,” Nehring said.

Christopher Larsen, representing U.S. Rep. Rick Larsen, said the citizen-soldiers are members of our community, but also have been there when needed all over the world.

Herold Hudson, command executive officer for the 364th ESC, said the reserves are important to the state’s economy, providing $310 million. He thanked employers for allowing their workers to serve. He said cyber threats are now their primary challenge. Of his charges, he said they will “defend freedom on any front.”

SSG Thalia Crews read a proclamation from the state House of Representatives, which honored the Army Reserves at the state capitol earlier in the day. It says they have never failed to answer the call of duty, and the skilled forces go wherever needed. It also says they are an elite class of soldier, as they are also vital to domestic disaster support. It says their civilian skills enhance their military ability and vice versa.

Via video, BG Vincent Buggs, commanding general, says the Army Reserve has new adversaries and a new mission.

In opening remarks, SFC David Sivewright said the Army Reserve is the most lethal reserve force in U.S. history.