United States Armed Forces

United States Armed Forces

The United States Armed Forces are the military forces of the United States of America. They consist of six service branches: the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Space Force, and Coast Guard. The President of the United States is the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces and forms military policy with the United States Department of Defense (DoD) and United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS), both federal executive departments, acting as the principal organs by which military policy is carried out.

History

The history of the United States Armed Forces dates back to 14 June 1775, with the creation of the Continental Army, even before the Declaration of Independence marked the establishment of the United States. The Continental Navy was created in October 1775, and the Continental Marines were formed in November 1775. Since its formation, the United States Armed Forces have played a decisive role in the history of the United States. From fighting for independence in the American Revolutionary War to global involvement in World War II and the ongoing War on Terror, the Armed Forces have been instrumental in securing American interests.

Structure

The United States Armed Forces are divided into six branches:

• United States Army: The Army is the oldest and largest branch of the US military, responsible for land-based military operations.
• United States Marine Corps: A branch of the Navy, the Marine Corps specializes in amphibious operations; their primary specialty is to assault, capture, and control "beach heads," which then provide a route to attack the enemy from almost any direction.
• United States Navy: The Navy is responsible for maintaining the freedom of the seas, projecting power across the globe through its fleet, which includes aircraft carriers, submarines, and numerous other types of ships.
• United States Air Force: The Air Force oversees air, space, and cyberspace operations, including managing military satellites, conducting air strikes, and providing air support to ground troops.
• United States Space Force: The newest branch, established in December 2019, is responsible for organizing, training, and equipping space forces in order to protect U.S. and allied interests in space and to provide space capabilities to the joint force.
• United States Coast Guard: The Coast Guard provides law enforcement, search and rescue, and regulatory services along the United States' coasts and waterways. In times of war or on the direction of the President, the Coast Guard serves as part of the Department of the Navy.

Roles and Responsibilities

The primary mission of the Armed Forces is to defend the United States and its interests. This involves deterring aggression, protecting American citizens abroad, and supporting allies. Each branch has specific roles and responsibilities but works together to ensure the security and safety of the country and its allies.

Personnel

The United States Armed Forces are a volunteer force, with service members enlisting without the need for conscription. The military operates under a strict hierarchy and discipline system, with ranks that denote levels of authority and responsibility.

Budget

The United States allocates a significant portion of its federal budget to defense spending, which covers the operation and maintenance of the Armed Forces, including salaries, training, and procurement of new technology and equipment.

Global Presence

The United States maintains a significant military presence around the world, with numerous bases in foreign countries. This global presence allows the United States to project power and respond quickly to international crises.

Challenges and Criticisms

The United States Armed Forces face various challenges, including adapting to new forms of warfare, such as cyber and unmanned systems, and dealing with the physical and mental health issues of service members. Additionally, the military's significant budget and global presence have been subjects of debate and criticism.

See Also

• Military history of the United States
• Military-industrial complex
• Veterans Affairs in the United States