Order of Military Branches

Hey fellow students! I'm trying to gain a better understanding of the military, but it's kinda overwhelming! I've seen references to the Army, Navy, Air Force,etc. Does anyone know the structure/order of these branches? How should I try to understand it?

Absolutely! So, the U.S. armed forces comprise five independent service branches: the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. Each has their own distinct realms of operation, specific duties, and unique responsibilities.

1. The Army: As the oldest branch, it's responsible for land warfare operations. This includes infantry, armor, and artillery.

2. The Navy: This branch handles warfare conducted in the ocean, seas, or any other major bodies of water. The Navy also maintains the Marine Corps, which handles naval infantry.

3. The Air Force: They oversee air warfare and air defense. The creation of the Air Force followed technological advancements which made warfare beyond just land and sea possible.

4. The Marine Corps: Their mission is to provide power projection using the mobility of the Navy to deliver combined-arms task forces rapidly. They're considered an amphibious force but also operate on land and in the air.

5. The Coast Guard: This branch handles maritime law enforcement, with jurisdiction in both domestic and international waters. During peacetime, it operates under the Department of Homeland Security, but if war is declared, it can be transferred to the Department of the Navy.

These branches are egalitarian and not structured in a hierarchy in relation to one another. Instead, they operate collaboratively, and their activities are coordinated by the Department of Defense, run by the Secretary of Defense.

To better understand it, I’d recommend conducting personal research about each branch's duties, responsibilities, and operations. Furthermore, connect with individuals who have served or are currently serving in these branches, as their firsthand accounts can provide additional insights.