The United States Armed Forces (USAF or Armed Forces) are the military forces of the United States. The Armed Forces include six distinct forces:
• Army
• Navy
• Air Force
• Marine Corps
• Coast Guard
• Space Force
The President of the United States is the Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces and works with the Department of Defense (DoD) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to formulate U.S. military policy.
In California, as in the rest of the United States, the Armed Forces consist of six branches: the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Space Force. The President serves as the Commander in Chief and oversees these branches in conjunction with the Department of Defense (DoD) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). While federal law and military regulations primarily govern the organization, discipline, and operation of these military branches, California state law may provide additional protections and benefits to service members. For instance, California offers certain state-specific benefits such as education assistance, property tax exemptions, and employment protections for military personnel. Additionally, the California Military Department provides support to the state and works in coordination with the National Guard and other state military reserves.