United States Military Branches

The United States military is made up of five branches, all responsible for performing diverse jobs in various locations. Unsure of which branch might suit you best? There are many different questions you should ask yourself about your interests, future goals and ideal living situations before deciding on a branch.

Before choosing which service may be the best for you, review some of the basic features of the many branches:

Army
• Key combat force
• Comprised of more than 1 million soldiers, assembling the Active Army, Army Reserve and Army National Guard
• Uses troops, weapons, tanks and helicopters
• Oldest and largest branch in the military

Navy
• Aims to defend and preserve the liberty of the seas
• Works alongside the Air Force during times of conflict
• Provides aircraft and other gear to locations that are inaccessible
• Transports Marine troops to areas for service

Marine Corps
• Known as the “Infantry of the Navy”
• Contributes to amphibious operations on land and sea
• Independent, but also works alongside the Navy in Logistics and Administration
• Smallest branch of the Armed Forces

Air Force
• Started in 1947
• Formerly titled the Corps of the Army
• Guards both air and space as its foremost objective
• Uses various pieces of equipment, including fighter aircraft, bombers and transports troops and equipment

National Guard
• Each state has its individual Guard
• Serves a dual idea: Both state and federal operations are handled by the Guard
• Serves and protects the United States, home and abroad
• Assists with nationwide disasters like floods, fires, earthquake
• Maintains the harmony during civil strife
• Works part time, one weekend a month and two weeks per year when not called for service

There are differences among the five branches, including techniques of fighting, training or location. It is important to choose a branch that matches closely the ideas of what you are looking for during service and that you are satisfied with your decision before signing any contracts. For additional information about any of the military service branches, contact your local recruiter.