The Army Reserve is about to get its own social network

Army Reserve units tend to be small and widely spread throughout the country, but Lt. Gen. Charles Luckey hopes an app will help make those soldiers and their families feel closer.

Double Eagle goes live on Friday, ahead of an official launch on Saturday in Boston at a Yellow Ribbon Integration Program family event, according to a Wednesday release from the Army.

“The nearly two-hundred thousand Army Reserve soldiers will be able to connect with other Army Reserve soldiers and their families, volunteers and Department of the Army civilians, while also sharing valuable information and resources by using the new Double Eagle app,” the release said.

The Reserve’s commanding general came up with the idea, according to its website. Key features include social networking functions like discussion boards, messaging, command push alerts and a “Nearby” option that allows soldiers to share a rough estimate of their location (between six and 10 miles) to meet up with other reservists in the area.

“The app can be used anytime, anywhere in the world to connect with fellow Soldiers, access key Army Reserve resources or catch up on the latest Army Reserve news," the website reads.

It also has a recruiting function, Luckey told reporters in January, that can allow a soldier out in the community to take down contact information if they happen to strike up a conversation with someone interested in serving. That information can be sent to a recruiter, who can follow up with the prospect.

RELATED

Army Reserve chief: Manning, fitness test challenges are under control

Army Reserve chief Lt. Gen. Charles Luckey talks end strength, recruiting and the imminent Army Combat Fitness Test.

By Meghann Myers

Double Eagle also has a 10-part code of conduct, to head off the shenanigans that come along with every social media platform.

Soldiers are advised to be respectful and professional, only share appropriate material and to respect each others’ privacy, among others. The application is subject to monitoring, according to the website, and Uniform Code of Military Justice action is on the table for violations.

In Other News

Vets advocates push Supreme Court to dump laws punishing homelessness

A case being considered by the Supreme Court could have far-reaching impact on efforts to help homeless veterans.

Special Forces soldiers in NW Florida still awaiting child care center

A decision on whether Special Forces families will get a child development center at Camp "Bull" Simons, Florida, may arrive in the coming weeks.

MacArthur still endures as a larger-than-life figure — for good or ill

Few subjects in military history are more loaded than public perception of Douglas MacArthur.

January 6 convict asks for light sentence in order to remain in Navy

An active-duty service member convicted in the Jan. 6, 2021, attack urged a judge for a light sentence in order to remain in the Navy.

Agreement helps military spouses keep federal jobs in overseas moves

Here's how an agreement between the Pentagon and State Department will help federally employed military spouses move their jobs overseas in a PCS.

Load More