Hey folks, I have a question regarding the U.S. Coast Guard. Is it considered a branch of the military? I know it's under the Department of Homeland Security in peacetime, but I'm unsure about its overall standing.
The U.S. Coast Guard is indeed considered one of the six branches of the U.S. military. While it's true that it falls under the Department of Homeland Security during times of peace, its role shifts during times of war. In the event of a war or national emergency, the Coast Guard can be transferred to the jurisdiction of the Department of the Navy.
So, to clarify, its "military" status isn't contingent upon whether it's under Homeland Security or the Department of Navy. It's always considered a branch of the U.S. Armed Forces, discipline-wise and in terms of its purpose and operations. For example, like other military personnel, Coast Guard members have ranks and follow the Uniform Code of Military Justice.
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