Army - The largest and oldest service in the U.S. military, the Army provides the ground forces that protect the United States. Mostly land-based operations and humanitarian missions.

Marines - A component of the Department of the Navy. It mostly operates in water but does land operations as well.

Navy - Operates on land, in the air and on the water. The Navy has the largest fleet of air carriers in the world.

Air Force - The Air Force conducts air-based missions. The air Force does not consist of only pilots, but also air traffic controllers, and experts in reconnaissance. Outer space and cyberspace (for the purposes of intelligence and surveillance) also fall under the jurisdiction of the Air Force.

Coast Guard - The Coast Guard is the smallest branch and help with law and maritime safety enforcement, marine and environmental protection, and military naval support. Part of the Department of Homeland Security during peacetime, the Coast Guard operates under the Navy during times of war.

National Guard - Comprised of the Army National Guard and Air National Guard, the National Guard is a versatile force, supporting combat missions, domestic emergencies, humanitarian efforts, homeland security operations, and more.

Parents

Military Today Parent Guide

Parent Resources for National Guard

Students

ASVAB Practice Test

4tests.com ASVAB test prep

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