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Understanding combat in the military: Which branch sees the least?

Hi folks, I'm interested in a military career but, quite honestly, I don't see myself on a a battlefield. Does anyone know which branch of the military tends to see the least combat? Your help is really appreciated!

a year ago

Hello!

Your preference to avoid battlefield combat influences the branch of the military you might want to consider. Here's a brief overview of the different branches:

1. Army: They are the land defense force combating on the ground. Soldiers in such a branch are often in the front lines during combat.

2. Marine Corps: The Marine Corps conducts ground and amphibious operations. If a situation calls for immediate ground combat, the Marines are usually the first on the scene.

3. Navy: The U.S. Navy's main role is to project force into areas beyond U.S. shores. Navy officers find themselves in a variety of roles, from driving ships to flying aircraft or providing ground support.

4. Air Force: This branch deals primarily with aerial warfare and air defense. It has a wide variety of roles ranging from pilots, systems operators, to ground maintenance.

5. Coast Guard: Operates under the Department of Homeland Security during peacetime with a focus on maritime law enforcement, marine environmental protection, and search & rescue operations.

6. Space Force: This is the newest military branch, tasked with space operations such as satellite control, space surveillance, space defense (not on-the-ground combat).

Given your interest to steer away from battlefield combat, the Coast Guard and Space Force may be the best fit for you. The Coast Guard mostly conducts non-combat missions and the Space Force, which focuses on space and cyber operations, is very unlikely to see traditional ground combat. However, it's important to remember that all branches do have the potential to be involved in combat situations, even if it's not their primary mission.

Before making any decisions, I'd suggest talking to recruiters from these branches to understand more about their roles, responsibilities, and potential risks. Doing so can provide a more comprehensive view of what to expect in each branch.

a year ago

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