Hey there, I'm a junior planning my next steps. I've got family in California and have thought about joining the military after high school. So, I'm curious - which branch of the US military is primarily stationed there?
California hosts multiple bases for all six branches of the U.S. military - the Army, Air Force, Navy, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, and Space Force. So, you'd have options with any branch you choose to pursue.
If you're interested in the Navy, San Diego is home to the largest naval fleet in the world. The city hosts seven different Naval bases, making it a key hub for the Navy on the West Coast.
For the Air Force and Space Force, Los Angeles Air Force Base is a significant site, particularly as it's also where the Space Force's Space and Missile Systems Center is located. Additionally, Travis Air Force Base in Fairfield and Beale Air Force Base near Marysville are major active Air Force bases in California.
The U.S Marine Corps maintains a significant presence as well, with bases such as Camp Pendleton and Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, both located in San Diego County.
In terms of the Army, there are several bases, including Fort Irwin in the Mojave Desert, which provides complex, multi-dimensional training.
Lastly, the U.S. Coast Guard has multiple stations throughout California, such as the Coast Guard Island in Alameda.
Keep in mind that the base won't be a permanent residence. You may be relocated based on the needs of the service branch you join. Consulting with a recruiter can help provide even more tailored information to align with your personal circumstances and interests.
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