I'm trying to dig up information on which branch of the military tends to get the least funding. Does anyone know? I'm just trying to get a sense of different factors that might help me make my decision about whether to join the military and, if so, which branch.
Based on the data available, the Coast Guard traditionally receives the least funding compared to other branches of the military: the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps. Currently, the branch receiving the least funding is actually the recently established Space Force, but since that branch has only existed since 2019, it's difficult to draw equivalencies between its funding and that of the other, more established branches.
The Coast Guard, in addition to being smaller in size, carries out duties including, but not limited to, maritime law enforcement, search and rescue operations, and ensuring navigational safety. These duties are generally less costly than, say, a mission conducted by the Air Force that requires a fleet of fighter jets, or maintaining a Navy submarine that might not surface for many months.
However, your decision to enlist should not be driven solely by funding. Each branch has different specialties, missions, cultures, and areas for advancement, and they all receive the funding they need to operate. Beyond funding, you should consider what kind of military life and field of work interest you most, and how your personal skills and career aspirations would fit within each branch.
For example, if you're interested in a seafaring life and you're attracted to duties such as maritime law enforcement or search and rescue operations, you'd likely find life in the Coast Guard engaging, even if this branch receives less funding.
Remember to learn as much as you can about each branch, perhaps by speaking with current and retired service members or researching online. Funding isn't a bad factor to consider, but joining the military is a significant decision that you should consider from as many angles as possible.
I hope you find this information helpful!
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