Delving into the US Military: Can Someone Explain the 12 branches to me?

So, I've been doing some research (cue the late-night curiosity), and it says there are '12 branches' in the U.S. Military - including reserves or otherwise. Can anybody help me understand this better? What separates one branch from another, besides the obvious roles? I'd be really grateful if any of you could provide a brief explanation for each of these branches!

Sure, happy to clear up some of your confusion. Although it may feel as if there are many branches due to the various roles and subdivisions within the military, there are actually six main branches that make up the U.S. Military. These include the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and most recently, the Space Force.

1. Army: This is the oldest branch of the U.S. military and has the mission to fight land-based warfare. Its roles include ground combat, the handling of major war operations, and the protection of U.S. property and interests.

2. Navy: The Navy's primary mission is to maintain the freedom of the seas, deter aggression, and protect shipping routes. This includes underwater warfare, surface warfare, and air warfare.

3. Air Force: This branch is responsible for protecting American interests in the air and space. They handle operations such as strategic bombing, air support, reconnaissance, and airlifts. They also have a new subdivision, the Space Force.

4. Marine Corps: The Marines are often the first boots on the ground in combat scenarios. Their mission is to secure beachheads, work with naval forces for sea control, and provide ground and air combat support.

5. Coast Guard: The Coast Guard has a unique mission, which includes maritime law enforcement, maritime search and rescue, and the maintenance of navigation systems. During peacetime, it operates under the Department of Homeland Security. In times of war, it can be transferred to operate under the Navy.

6. Space Force: This is the newest branch, established in 2019. Its mission is related to organizing, training, and equipping personnel to protect U.S and allied interests in space. This includes monitoring ballistic missile launches, tracking space debris, and maintaining satellites for communication within military branches.

In addition, there are reserve components for each of these branches, including the Army Reserve, Navy Reserve, Marine Corps Reserve, Air Force Reserve, Coast Guard Reserve, and Space Force Reserve. Each reserve component supports their parent branch, providing trained units and individuals that can be mobilized in times of war or national emergency.

Then, there are the National Guard units: the Army National Guard and the Air National Guard. These have a dual state and federal mission. In peacetime, under state law, the National Guard provides protection of life and property and preserves peace, order, and public safety. During national emergencies, however, the President reserves the right to mobilize the National Guard.

So in essence, what separates each branch is primarily their role and mission as well as the terrain they operate within. Each branch serves unique purposes but collectively they work to protect and serve the United States and its interests.