The United States 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 and missions, ranging from land combat to naval operations and air defense. The military operates under the authority of the Department of Defense and is led by the President of the United States as the Commander-in-Chief. It plays a crucial role in national security, disaster response, and international peacekeeping efforts, often collaborating with allies around the world.