Joining the military is a big step in your career, but it can be difficult choosing which branch is right for you. Should you choose the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, or Coast Guard? This overview of each of the different branches may help you decide where you fit best.
Army
The Army is the oldest branch of the military, and it protects the United States and its resources. Those serving in the Army have the ability to fight by land, sea, and air. There are elite groups within the Army that receive specialized training such as the Army Rangers or Special Forces. Service members in this branch can be stationed her in the U.S.. or in Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. There are over 150 career opportunities with this branch across various disciplines including aviation, communications, intelligence, healthcare, maintenance, and transportation. If you wish to be part-time, you can enroll in the Army Reserves or the Army National Guard. By visiting an Army recruiter, you can get your questions answered and more. You can find nearby recruiting areas by using GoArmy.
Marine Corps
The Marine Corps are filled with an elite group of men and women that live by strict ethics. Those serving in the Marine Corps are often the first on the ground during combat situations. The Marines and Army have a similar ground combat mission but the Marines are designed to be an amphibious force. The Marine Corps have many of the same specialties mentioned for the Army and also includes the combat roles of rifleman, machine gunner, mortarman, assault man, or air tank missile man. Ultimately, the Marines are a proud force and push beyond the normal standard to distinguish themselves. Part-time Marines can enroll in the Marine Corps Reserve. This branch accepts exceptional, hard working people and by talking to a Marine Corps recruiter, you can see if you’re right for the Marines.
Navy
The Navy defends the right to travel and trade freely in the world’s oceans. Additionally, the Navy protects national interests overseas. In addition to ship duty specialties, this branch also includes its own air arm with Naval Aviators flying from the aircraft carriers. This branch has many employment specialties the Army and Marines do not have. The elite force for the Navy are the Navy SEALs (Sea, Air, and Land). Only the best can pass SEAl training and wear the trident badge. If you wish to be enrolled part-time in the Navy, you can enroll in the Navy Reserves. Being in the Navy is a great way to see the world and serve this nation, you can have questions answered by a Navy recruiter.
Air Force
The Air Force protects American interests at home and abroad using various kinds of manned aircraft and unmanned drones, but service members in this branch may also assist with launching satellites into space for intelligence and communications purposes. Many of the jobs within the Air Force require technical skill such as weapons and aircraft maintenance or information technology services. The Air Force also requires that you be proficient and technically-minded regardless of the role you assume. Part-time Air Force positions include the Air Force Reserves and the Air National Guard. Speaking to an Air Force recruiter can help you decide if this branch is right for you.
Coast Guard
The Coast Guard protects America’s waterways and comes under Navy jurisdiction during wartime. Coast Guard careers have a number of disciplines including aviation maintenance technician, damage control, electronics technician, health services technician, intelligence specialist, machinery technician, and so much more. The Coast Guard’s main mission is to act as maritime law enforcement and search and rescue, but those serving in the Coast Guard may become deployed. Those looking to enlist part-time can join the Coast Guard Reserves. Since the Coast Guard has so many careers available, speaking to a Coast Guard recruiter is the best way to find the perfect job for you.
