The story of the United States military is the story of the country itself. Both have grown and changed over time. Learn about the unique histories, traditions, weapons, leaders, stats, and fun facts of the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, Air Force, and Space Force, and their roles within the military in this fun and fascinating guide!

From the few hundred soldiers in its ranks when it was first established, to the over one million service members today, the U.S. military has grown in power and size over its 250-year history. Its organization and branches have changed to adapt to new technologies and national needs. The Handy Armed Forces Answer Book: Your Guide to the Whats and Whys of the U.S. Military looks at each branch of the U.S. military. It answers more than 500 of the most intriguing questions, including …

How
is the U.S. military organized?

How
do the branches work together?

When
did the Army Air Corps become the U.S. Army Air Force?

What
is the selection process like for Special Forces?

Who
was the Continental Army’s first Commander in Chief?

How
does the military rank structure function?

How
does somebody become an Air Force officer?

What
was the Brown Water Navy ?

What
is the motto of the Coast Guard?

How
many bases does the military have?

What
is the Marine Corps Hymn?

Did
any Coast Guard vessels serve in combat?

What
type of aircraft is Air Force One?

Who
said Retreat? Hell! We just got here!

Who
were the Buffalo Soldiers?

What
are the Blue Angels?

What
is the most challenging USAF plane to fly?

What
is the origin of the Coast Guard racing stripe ?

Does
the Space Force have any operational bases?

How
did a mutiny help establish the United States Naval Academy?

What
is the longest-serving personal weapon used by the American soldier?

What
is the difference between a UAV and a drone?

What
attack submarines does the Navy deploy?

Who
defends the United States against cyberattacks and other digital
threats?

The Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, and Space Force are uniquely American, each in their own way. Learn what makes each branch special in The Handy Armed Forces Answer Book! With more than 140 photos and graphics, this fascinating to me is richly illustrated. Its helpful bibliography and extensive index add to its usefulness.