The US Department of Defense plans to implement a pilot “Language Corps” over the next three years.
Formerly called the Civilian Linguist Reserve Corps, the new Department of Defense “Language Corps” plans to help meet the nation’s needs for professionals with language skills. The pilot Corps will include at least 1,000 members from all sectors of the US population.
“The department is confident that a successful Language Corps will not only address gaps in federal preparedness, but also serve to reinforce the importance of language skills in the American population and the U.S. education system,” said Gail McGinn, deputy undersecretary of defense for plans.
The corps will be an entirely civilian organization managed by the DoD for the federal sector composed of members who will voluntarily join and renew their membership. A larger national data base of volunteer members with certified language skills will also be created. Members of both bodies could be called upon for federal service during times of war, national emergency, or other national needs.
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