Naval Opportunities?

Okay, so I totally love the water and am considering a career that lets me be near it. So, could anyone tell me which U.S. military branch is ocean-based?

The United States Navy is the primary ocean-based branch of the U.S. Armed Forces. Their mission is to maintain, train, and equip combat-ready naval forces, while securing the freedom of the seas. The Navy operates on, under, and over the ocean, and provides a capability for global deployment. Here you can work on ships, submarines, or even in naval aviation.

Additionally, the United States Coast Guard, while not officially under the Department of Defense like the Navy, is an ocean-based branch of the military. This branch focuses more on immediate, local issues like maritime law enforcement, aid to navigation, search and rescue, and environmental protection.

Both branches provide a myriad of career opportunities, from engineering and technology roles, to medical, intelligence, operations, and more. Navy careers can take many forms, and there's a wide range of disciplines depending on your interests, skills, and education. You could serve as anything from a Naval pilot, to a submarine sonar tech, to a meteorologist, or public affairs officer.

Likewise, in the Coast Guard, you can serve in a variety of roles such as a pilot, rescue swimmer, law enforcement officer, or in ship operations. Careers in the Coast Guard are often very hands-on and are great for individuals who enjoy problem-solving and working as part of a team.

For both branches, there will be many opportunities to be near or on the water as part of your duties, and both provide excellent training and benefits. Seeing as you love the water, either choice could be a great fit!