Many who are considering service in the military wonder what the differences in benefits are between each branch. Across all the branches of the United States Armed Forces, they offer the same benefits, such as retirement pension, education benefits, healthcare and pay.
No matter what branch one is enlisted into, if 20 years of service are completed, then they are entitled to a retirement pension. All active duty military personnel have health insurance called TRICARE available to them. Where the pay benefits differ is dependent upon everyone’s rank and time in service.
Because of this, instead of asking about the official benefits, a better approach may be to decide which branch is best for you based on your particular priorities, interests and long-term goals. Let’s further explore the five individual branches of the United States Armed Forces, and the differences in benefits according to one’s personal reasons for joining the military.
1. ARMY
The Army is accountable for the defense of the United States on land. If combat service is a significant reason for your enlistment, the Army is a great choice (as well as the Marines). The Army also has a plethora of different jobs which means that you are likely to be able to find one that best suits your interests and natural talents quite easily.
2. AIR FORCE
The Air Force oversees the protection of our country from the air. Because the Air Force typically has an average of around five years at home for every year of deployment, if you have a family then you may consider this to be a benefit that is not to be overlooked. In comparison, the Army shoots for two years at home for every year of deployment.
3. MARINE CORPS
The Marine Corps belong to the Department of the Navy and are responsible for the defense of naval bases as well as maintaining a presence on U.S. Navy ships. Due to the variety in nature of this branch, in addition to the Army, the Marine Corps is also an excellent choice for someone who is looking to serve in combat arms.
4. COAST GUARD
The purpose of the Coast Guard is to defend our nation’s borders and protect the maritime areas from potential threats. Probably the most apparent benefit to enlisting in the Coast Guard as opposed to the other branches would be the opportunity to serve one’s country without being stationed overseas.
5. NAVY
Our Navy is at the helm of our nation’s protection from the sea. They can fight on, under and over the oceans making them vital regarding national security. If you are looking to join the military to see the world and travel often, then the Navy would be an excellent option for you! However, if you quickly get seasick then perhaps the Army would be a better choice.
Service members join the military for a wide variety of reasons. Some go for the steady paycheck, others decide to enlist so they can travel the world, and a few are motivated purely to receive the educational benefits. No matter what is leading you in the direction to enlist, make sure you are crystal clear on your short and long-term goals as well as fully educated before making your ultimate decision on which branch you want to serve.
