The Selective Reenlistment Bonus Army: A History of Military Service and Socioeconomic Discontent

Introduction

The Selective Reenlistment Bonus (SRB) Army, also known as the Bonus Army, was a group of unemployed World War I veterans who marched on Washington, D.C. in 1932 to demand immediate payment of a promised bonus. The protest resulted in a violent clash with the U.S. Army, leading to the deaths of several veterans. This article delves into the history, causes, and consequences of this significant event.

Historical Context

World War I and the Bonus Promise

In 1917, the United States entered World War I. As an incentive for enlistment, Congress promised a bonus to veterans once the war ended. The bonus was to be paid in the form of insurance policies that would mature in 20 years.

Post-War Unemployment and Economic Distress

After the war, many veterans returned home to find themselves unemployed and struggling financially. The economic downturn of the Great Depression further exacerbated their economic plight.

Formation of the SRB Army

In 1932, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) proposed an immediate payment of the bonus to help ease the economic hardship faced by veterans. Congress, however, rejected the proposal, citing budgetary concerns.

March on Washington

Undeterred, the VFW organized a march on Washington, D.C. to demand payment of the bonus. Thousands of veterans from across the country converged on the capital, forming a tent city known as "Hooverville" on the outskirts of the city.

Confrontation and Violence

On July 28, 1932, President Herbert Hoover ordered the U.S. Army to evict the veterans from their encampment. The eviction force, led by General Douglas MacArthur, used tear gas, tanks, and bayonets to clear the camp.

In the ensuing chaos, two veterans were killed and hundreds injured. The incident sparked outrage across the nation and became known as the "Bonus Army Massacre."

Aftermath and Legacy

The Bonus Army incident had a profound impact on American society and politics:

Public Sympathy

The violence against the veterans generated widespread public sympathy and condemnation of the Hoover administration.

Political Consequences

The incident contributed to Hoover's defeat in the 1932 presidential election, paving the way for the election of Franklin D. Roosevelt.

Support for Veterans Programs

The Bonus Army protest helped highlight the economic struggles faced by veterans and led to increased support for veterans programs during the New Deal era.

Impact on Military Service

SRB Benefits

The Selective Reenlistment Bonus program remains in place today, providing financial incentives to military personnel to reenlist.

Veteran Outreach and Support

The lessons learned from the Bonus Army incident have influenced the U.S. government's approach to veteran outreach and support.

Tables of Note

| Year | Bonus Payment Plan |
|---|---|---|
| 1924 | Adjusted Service Certificate, payable in 20 years |
| 1932 | Immediate payment of full bonus amount |

| Year | SRB Program |
|---|---|---|
| 1971 | Authorized by Congress as a way to retain experienced personnel |
| 1991 | Bonus amounts increased to reflect changing military demographics |
| Present | Program continues to provide financial incentives for reenlistment |

Stories and Lessons

**Veteran John Smith served in World War I and returned home to a job with General Motors. After the Depression hit, he lost his job and struggled to find work. He joined the Bonus Army march hoping for a better future.

Lesson: The economic hardship faced by veterans after World War I contributed to the formation of the SRB Army.

President Herbert Hoover faced a difficult choice in responding to the Bonus Army protest. He feared that a violent crackdown would spark a wider social unrest.

Lesson: Political leaders must balance the need for order with the rights and grievances of citizens.

General Douglas MacArthur was tasked with carrying out President Hoover's orders to evict the veterans. He used excessive force that resulted in the deaths of several veterans.

Lesson: Military force should be used only as a last resort and with restraint.

Effective Strategies

Improved Veteran Outreach: Providing veterans with access to job training, housing assistance, and other support services can help reduce unemployment and socioeconomic distress.

Support for Veterans Programs: Funding for veterans' programs such as education, healthcare, and disability compensation can help improve the well-being of veterans and their families.

Ethical Military Leadership: Ethical decision-making by military leaders can help prevent the excessive use of force and protect the rights of veterans.

Why it Matters and How it Benefits

Historical Legacy: The SRB Army protest serves as a reminder of the struggles faced by veterans after major wars.

Socioeconomic Impact: Providing support for veterans can help prevent economic hardship and improve the overall well-being of our communities.

National Security: A strong and well-supported military depends on the retention of experienced personnel, which is facilitated by SRB programs.

Pros and Cons

Pros of SRB Programs:

• Increased military retention and readiness
• Financial incentives for service members
• Supports veteran families and local economies

Cons of SRB Programs:

• Can be costly
• May lead to inequities in reenlistment decisions
• Can be a disincentive for military personnel to pursue higher education or other career opportunities

Conclusion

The Selective Reenlistment Bonus Army protest of 1932 was a significant event in American history, highlighting the socioeconomic challenges faced by veterans after major wars. The incident led to increased support for veterans' programs and influenced the approach to veteran outreach and support. Today, SRB programs continue to provide financial incentives for military personnel to reenlist, contributing to military readiness and supporting veteran families. By understanding the history, lessons learned, and ongoing benefits of SRB programs, we can continue to honor the sacrifices made by those who serve our nation.