Potential Magazine Winter 2016 | Page 63

TW E LV E ! THE FOUR BRANCHES OF THE MILITARY When you think about the branches of the U.S. Military you probably immediately think of the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines. But did you know that our military is really made up of 12 branches: five active duty and seven part-time duty? Here’s the breakdown: 1 2 3 ACTIVE DUTY (FULL TIME) Active duty members are full-time members of the military stationed at a base domestically or overseas. Active duty military members are usually enlisted for 2-6 year terms. RESERVES (PART TIME) The Reserves were created as a means to have trained forces at home while active duty members are deployed. Reserve units may be deployed in times of national emergency or wartime, but are otherwise part-time service members. This allows reservists to have a civilian job or attend school while serving their country, as peacetime requirements consist of one weekend per month and a single two-week program annually. NATIONAL GUARD (PART TIME) Like the Reserves, National Guard members are required to serve one weekend per month as well as an annual two-week service. The National Guard mainly serves to provide homeland security and humanitarian relief, such as during natural disasters. Also like the Reserves, National Guard members are able to have civilian careers or attend school while serving. Active Duty Reserves National Guard Army Marines Navy Air Force Coast guard www.potentialmagazine.com Winter 2016 | 31