Help needed: Which branch of the military takes charge during a war?

Hey everyone, rising senior here. I'm looking into pursuing a military career after high school. I've heard different things about the role of each branch in wartime. Can anyone help clarify for me, which branch typically takes the lead/command in a war situation?

Sure, it's important to note that no single branch of the military inherently takes the overall lead during wartime. The command structure in the United States Armed Forces is unified, meaning that it's not specific to one branch but rather centralizes command across all five branches which are: the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard.

During a war, the President—as the commander-in-chief directs military operations through the Secretary of Defense. The Secretary of Defense oversees the Joint Chiefs of Staff, a body that includes the highest-ranking officer from each branch. Through this structure, each branch collaborates and contributes to ongoing military operations based on their expertise and capabilities.

For instance, if the conflict involves a large ground operation, the Army might have a significant role. If the situation calls for air superiority or an air strike, the Air Force may take a significant role. In scenarios involving sea, the Navy is prominently involved. The Marines often work closely with the Navy and are typically responsible for amphibious assaults. Lastly, the Coast Guard, although primarily charged with domestic waterway security, can support naval operations or provide additional security domestically, freeing up resources from other branches.

To summarize, the operational control depends on the nature and location of the conflict, and each branch has its specialties. This creates a balance, and usually, no one branch "takes command" of the others. Rather, they all work together under the centralized military structure.