Differences in All US Military Branches Including Special Forces

Hey, I'm seriously considering joining the military after high school, but I'm kinda overwhelmed by the plethora of options. I'm particularly interested in special forces, but I don't know much about the differences between them. Could anyone break this down a bit for me? Sort of an overview including special forces in every branch?

First off, it is admirable that you're considering serving after high school, and your interest in special forces is certainly a brave step.

You're correct, the United States has six branches of the military: the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Space Force. Each branch has its own specific roles and responsibilities that contribute to national security, combined defense operations, and disaster relief efforts:

1. The Army is the largest of the military branches and primarily focuses on land combat operations. It handles ground-based warfare, and it protects the nation through ground surveillance and weaponry.

2. The Navy is responsible for sea-based operations but they also support operations on both air and land. Most of the Navy’s missions are carried out at sea, on naval ships, and submarines.

3. The Air Force defends the United States in the air and space. It handles warfare that commences from the sky and has a significant focus on aerial combat and technology.

4. The Marine Corps, a component of the Navy, serves as an expeditionary force in readiness and can deploy quickly to any location.

5. The Coast Guard handles coastal defense, search and rescue, and maritime law enforcement. It also responds to pollution incidents and aids in navigation.

6. The Space Force, the newest branch, organizes, trains, and equips personnel to protect U.S. and allied interests in space, this also includes maintaining satellites that help other branches to communicate.

Now, addressing special forces, they are elite units with specialized training and duties. They are intended for specific, targeted operations and equipped to deal with specific circumstances.

1. The Army Special Forces, also known as the Green Berets, conducts unconventional warfare, foreign internal defense, special reconnaissance, and more.

2. The Navy has the Navy SEALs and Special Warfare Combatant-Craft Crewmen (SWCC). SEALs are known for their work in sea, air, and land operations, while SWCC specializes in navigating through shallow water areas where larger ships cannot operate.

3. The Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) includes Pararescue (PJ), Combat Control (CCT), and Special Reconnaissance (SR). These roles involve high-risk rescue missions, guiding air assault operations, and collecting intelligence, respectively.

4. The Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command (MARSOC) roles include direct action, counter-terrorism, and reconnaissance.

5. The Coast Guard has the Deployable Specialized Forces (DSF) who take on law enforcement and counterterrorism duties.

6. As the Space Force is still new, it doesn't yet have special forces, but we'll see in the coming years.

Keep in mind each special forces group has a rigorous selection process and intensive training, so you might want to consider that as well in your decision. It’s also worth keeping in mind that while special forces are certainly prestigious, there are many ways to serve and make a profound impact within each branch of the military!