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For Educators: Military Resources
For Educators: Military Resources
Military Service

Service Branches

The Military consists of six branches: Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Space Force and Coast Guard. If joining the Military is something you’re curious about, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with what makes each branch unique and which might be right for you. Let’s get started.

Service Branches of the Military

Each branch of the Military has a unique mission, whether on land, at sea, in the air or in space. Take a look:

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Army

www.goarmy.com
Mission Focus

To defend the nation through ground-based military operations and maintain readiness for combat, peacekeeping and humanitarian assistance.

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What Makes Them Unique
The Army is the largest branch of the armed forces and operates in a range of diverse global environments. As a result, it also offers extensive leadership opportunities — and a wide range of specialized roles across combat, technical and support fields.
Did You Know
You don’t have to be a soldier to work for the Army. With over 200,000 non-military personnel in a variety of support roles from administration to engineering, it’s technically one of the largest civilian employers in the country.
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Marine Corps

www.marines.com
Mission Focus

To support other branches in land, air and sea combat, and serve as the nation’s expeditionary force in readiness, ready for rapid deployment and engagement.

Featured Roles
Part Time Options
What Makes Them Unique
For 249 years and counting, the Marine Corps has upheld a legacy of discipline, bravery and toughness. Renowned for their rapid deployment capabilities, they’re frequently the first to respond in times of crisis.
Did You Know
While the Marines are known for being “first to fight,” they’re also often “first to fix.” The Corps’ combat engineers are famed for their ability to build and repair critical infrastructure like bridges, roads and fortifications—often in challenging environments.
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Navy

www.navy.com
Mission Focus

To maintain freedom of the seas, support air operations from aircraft carriers and perform maritime security.

Featured Roles
Part Time Options
What Makes Them Unique
The Navy is the world’s most powerful maritime force — with all the exciting career opportunities to match. From deep-sea operations to cyberwarfare, its members have access to a variety of roles that are unparalleled in other branches.
Did You Know
The U.S. Navy has two floating hospitals — and yes, that’s a real thing. Often deployed on humanitarian missions worldwide, the USNS Mercy and USNS Comfort are fully equipped to provide medical services during disasters or combat.
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Air Force

www.airforce.com
Mission Focus

To fly, fight and win in air, space and cyberspace, delivering superiority in all three domains for national defense.

Featured Roles
Part Time Options
What Makes Them Unique
The Air Force is all about cutting edge tech — from jets, to drones, to stealth aircraft. A leader in aerospace innovation since 1947, their focus has now grown to include space operations and cybersecurity.
Did You Know
The Air Force is made up of more than just pilots — it’s also one of the largest employers of cybersecurity specialists in the world, helping protect both national and global networks from cyberthreats.
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Space Force

www.spaceforce.com
Mission Focus

To organize, train and equip space professionals to protect U.S. and allied interests in space, providing space capabilities to the Military.

Featured Roles
What Makes Them Unique
As the name suggests, the Space Force is dedicated to space operations and cybersecurity — focusing on the defense of satellites and the development of space technologies.
Did You Know
The Space Force isn’t just a defense organization. It has a growing role in space-based research, including developing new technologies to protect U.S. assets in space and working on space debris migration.
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Coast Guard

www.gocoastguard.com/
Mission Focus

To safeguard U.S. coastlines and waterways, protecting the nation from threats at sea and ensuring the safety of maritime activities.

Featured Roles
Part Time Options
What Makes Them Unique
The Coast Guard is America’s only designated maritime security, search and rescue, and law enforcement service branch, known for its emergency response capabilities and the vital role it plays in homeland security.
Did You Know
The Coast Guard is the only branch of the military that also operates as a law enforcement agency, enforcing maritime laws and regulations while also conducting rescue missions and protecting U.S. waters.
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Full- and Part-Time Options

Serving in the Military doesn’t have to mean full-time commitment. Learn how you can balance your personal goals and lifestyle with both full-time and part-time opportunities across all Service branches.

Learn About Full- and Part-Time Options

Get To Know Those Who Serve

There’s a reason service members don’t wear capes. They're everyday people, just like you, who have volunteered their time as leaders and humanitarians to safeguard our way of life — and with whom you may share more in common than you might think.

Explore Potential Roles in the Military

Engineering, medicine, baking (yes, you read that right) and more — the Military is filled with unique roles where you can hone real-world skills. Some of the options might surprise you!
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Compare Flexible Options for Military Service

While the Military is known for its clear structure, it also offers the flexibility to help you find a commitment that fits your goals. Whether you're interested in full- or part-time roles, you don't have to compromise to discover your full potential.
Learn About Full- and Part-Time Options