Hello peeps. I'm in junior year of high school and exploring different paths post-graduation. I stumbled upon the Merchant Marine and was wondering, is the Merchant Marine considered a branch of the military? How does it fit into the military hierarchy, if at all? Any input appreciated. Thanks!
Hello there! The U.S. Merchant Marine is a civilian auxiliary to the U.S military, but it is not an official branch of the armed forces. In times of peace, the Merchant Marine handles cargo and passenger transportation. However, during times of war or national emergency, the Merchant Marine can become a vital part of the nation's defense, transporting troops and supplies.
While mariners can be called upon to support military operations, they do not have a specific place in the military hierarchy, given its mainly civilian nature. It's also important to note that individuals in the Merchant Marine are called "mariners," not soldiers or sailors.
That being said, students who attend the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy or state maritime academies do go through a program that includes elements of military training. Graduates of the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy earn a Bachelor of Science degree, a Coast Guard License, and an officer's commission in one of the armed forces, providing a tangible link between this service and the military. However, they can choose to pursue civilian occupations after graduation. Hope that clears things up a bit!
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