The U.S. military is composed of six branches, each with distinct roles and responsibilities:

• Army : The oldest and largest branch, responsible for land-based military operations and protecting the United States on the ground

• Marine Corps : A component of the Department of the Navy, specializing in amphibious and ground combat operations, often first to engage in combat situations

• Navy : Conducts operations on, above, and below the water, serving as a major force for maritime security and power projection worldwide

• Air Force : Provides rapid and flexible air and space capabilities, delivering forces anywhere globally within hours

• Space Force : The newest branch, responsible for organizing, training, and equipping forces to conduct space operations and protect U.S. interests in space

• Coast Guard : Unique as both a military branch and a federal law enforcement agency, it enforces maritime laws, conducts search and rescue, protects the marine environment, and supports naval operations. It operates under the Department of Homeland Security in peacetime and can be transferred to the Navy during wartime

Additionally, the Army National Guard and Air National Guard serve as reserve components that operate under both state and federal authority

. These six branches collectively form the United States Armed Forces, working together to defend the country across land, sea, air, and space domains