What was the primary purpose of the establishment of the U.S. Naval Reserve?

The primary purpose of the establishment of the U.S. Naval Reserve was to maintain a ready manpower reserve. This involves ensuring that there are trained personnel available who can be called upon in times of national need, particularly during conflicts or wars. The Naval Reserve was formed to augment the active duty forces, providing an essential pool of skilled individuals who could step in quickly to maintain the operational capability of the Navy.

This function is crucial because it allows the Navy to expand its force effectively without needing to keep a large peacetime standing force, which can be financially and logistically burdensome. By having a reserve component, the Navy can efficiently mobilize trained sailors who have already completed their basic training and specialized schooling, thus ensuring readiness without the need for long lead times to train new recruits.

While educational benefits for veterans and the development of naval technology are important aspects associated with military service and modernization, they are not the primary objectives of the Naval Reserve's establishment. The focus has always been on readiness and manpower availability in response to the dynamic needs of national security. Providing support during times of war is a function that may stem from having a ready reserve, but it is not as foundational as the concept of maintaining that reserve itself.