Choosing which branch of the U.S.military to join will affect your life and is a significant life decision. Each military service offers a unique professional path. Because you’ll be wearing a uniform, it’s important to think about your career and goals for the future when researching the military.
If you are unclear about where to start or what you are looking for, don’t worry. This article definitely supports things to know about U.S. military branches that you should consider before wearing a military uniform.
Here is our guide to each branch of the armed forces so you can decide which is best for you.
U.S. Air Force
The US military decided to create the Air Force after World War II because they thought it could more successfully support ground troops. The primary responsibility of the Air Force is the defense of the United States in space and the air.
You should join the Air Force if:
If you enjoy technology and want to have access to some of the most cutting-edge training that will be useful for post-military careers, this branch is ideal for you. The U.S. Air Force is a great choice for people who want decent amenities and some of the best deployment cycles of any branch of the military.
You shouldn’t join the Air Force if:
U.S Army
The military’s primary ground force is the U.S. Army. The U.S. Army’s main goal is to guard and defend the United States using personnel, armor, artillery, helicopters, and other equipment. It is the oldest of the U.S. military branches.
You should join the Army if:
The U.S. Army is the perfect career choice for those who enjoy traveling and discovering new places because it has bases all around the world. The U.S. Army provides a wide range of professional possibilities, career advancement opportunities, as well as cross-country travel for anyone looking to pursue a successful military career.
You shouldn’t join the Army if:
You may not want to join the U.S. Army if you’re looking to be stationed near the coast. Most U.S. Army duty stations are inland, sometimes in a secluded area. Also, the U.S. Army spends a good amount of time outdoors, so if you love being inside, you may want to bypass this military branch as an option.
U.S. Navy
You should join the Navy if:
If you adore the ocean and want to work in thrilling disciplines like Navy Nuclear Power, Special Operations, and Naval Air with the opportunity to be stationed in over 51 different countries, the Navy has a lot to offer.
You shouldn’t join the Navy if:
If you routinely get seasick or are afraid of the water, you might want to reconsider entering the Navy. If you’re a homebody, the Navy might not be the best fit for you as sailors spend much of their time at sea. It’s normal to spend extended periods of time away from your home and loved ones.
U.S. Marines
U.S. Marines, the U.S. military branch that is both loved and hated. They have one of the hardest boot camps out of all the branches, so enlisting is not for the faint of heart. The highest level of physical fitness is necessary. Since its founding at Philadelphia’s Tun Tavern in 1775, the Marines have been the United States’ ready expeditionary force.
You should join the Marines Corps if:
Marines are prepared for both training and combat. Therefore, the Marines are ideal for you if you love the outdoors, have constant military training in the combative arts of blowing things up and hone your marksmanship.
You shouldn’t join the Marines Corp if:
If you prefer a definite career path and more comforts than you would find in the other services, the Marines are generally not going to be of interest to you. When choosing to join Marines, keep in mind that the Marines commonly deploy in combat situations because of their infantry capabilities.
U.S. Coast Guard
Since it handles maritime law enforcement, the Coast Guard stands apart from other American military organizations as a marine, military, and multi-mission service. The Department of Homeland Security currently serves as the Coast Guard’s parent organization. They can, however, be transferred to the Department of the Navy during times of war.
You should join the Coast Guard if:
The Coast Guard offers a wide range of choices for those interested in a career in security and law enforcement. The Coast Guard also has one of the most prestigious roles in the military thanks to its search and rescue swimmers. If you are a really good swimmer and want to be a part of a tight-knit community, search and rescue swimmers are among the most exclusive jobs in the military.
You shouldn’t join the Coast Guard if:
It is not simple to join the Coast Guard, nevertheless. It will be quite challenging for you to enter the service if you have a criminal record, poor credit history, or a GED. You can, however, apply for waivers and hope that they will accept you. However, since recruiters have a ton of experience dealing with these kinds of situations, talking to one about this might be the best course of action.
U.S. Military Basic Training
Want to know more about the basic training of each U.S. military branch? Learn more about the qualifications for joining each branch and the upcoming battles.