Chain of Command: Which Branch of Gov Commands the US Military?

Regarding U.S. government structure and hierarchy, in theory, which branch of government can command the U.S. military? Is it always executed via the president or is there more to it?

The President of the United States, as the Commander-in-Chief, typically has direct command over the U.S. military, according to the U.S. Constitution. This role is located within the executive branch of the U.S. government, making the President the highest military authority.

However, it's important to also address the checks and balances within the system. The U.S. Congress, which is part of the legislative branch, has the power to declare war. While the President may command the military, it is Congress that provides the authority to engage in war. In recent years though, we’ve seen a number of military engagements without formal war declarations, complicating this dynamic a bit.

The Secretary of Defense and the Joint Chiefs of Staff, along with other members of the Department of Defense, also play critical roles in planning and executing military strategy, effectively operating as a chain of command beneath the President.

So, while the President does retain command of the military, the system is designed with other positions of power that contribute to the overall control and direction of the U.S. military.