The U.S. military is the armed forces of the United States, responsible for defending the country and its interests. It consists of five main branches: the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. Each branch has specific roles, such as land, sea, and air operations, and they work together to ensure national security. The military is also involved in various missions, including humanitarian aid, disaster relief, and peacekeeping efforts around the world. It is supported by a large network of civilian personnel and operates under the authority of the Department of Defense.