Just a random thought - I heard that a new branch of the military was launched recently (the Space Force, I believe?). Could someone provide more insight into what it really is and what they do?
Absolutely, you've got it right! The United States Space Force (USSF) is indeed the newest branch of the Armed Forces. It was established in December 2019 during the Trump administration, marking the first new military service since the Air Force was created in 1947.
In terms of function, the Space Force is charged with organizing, training, and equipping space forces in order to protect U.S. and allied interests in space. Primary responsibilities include monitoring potential adversarial actions, preventing acts of space-related aggression, and maintaining satellites that allow inter-service communication.
Those enlisted in the Space Force are officially known as "Guardians." They monitor functions like early missile detection, weather forecasting for combat operations, and GPS satellite conduct. Furthermore, they are involved in surveilling and tracking space debris, to ensure the safety of spacecraft and satellites from potential hazardous collisions.
Remember, while the Space Force is indeed an independent branch of the military, its limited size (fewer than 5,000 Guardians compared to hundreds of thousands in other branches) means it operates under the Department of the Air Force in a similar relationship to how the Marine Corps operates under the Department of the Navy.
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