The Most Fun Branch of the Military, Ranked

Voting rules: Choose the branch you think is the most fun!

Updated on May 5, 2024 06:27

Choosing a career in the military often involves considering various factors, from personal interests to the unique characteristics of each branch. For new recruits, understanding which branch aligns with their definition of 'fun' can be crucial. A community-driven ranking that highlights the most enjoyable aspects of each branch can provide valuable insights, offering a clearer understanding of where one might find the most fulfillment. By participating in the ranking, users contribute to a broader spectrum of perspectives, ensuring a more balanced view of what each branch can offer. This dynamic approach allows potential recruits and curious individuals alike to gauge current opinions and experiences directly from those who serve or have served. Engaging in this interactive process not only informs but also connects individuals with a shared interest in military life.

What Is the Most Fun Branch of the Military?

1

38
votes
Journalist 2nd Class Todd Stevens · Public domain

US Navy

Continental Congress

With a variety of jobs, from sailors to pilots, the Navy offers endless opportunities for adventure and exploration on the high seas.
The US Navy is the naval warfare service branch of the United States Armed Forces. It is responsible for the defense and protection of the oceans, seas, and other bodies of water surrounding the United States. With its primary role being the maintenance of maritime security and power projection, the US Navy operates a vast fleet of ships and submarines, as well as naval aviation units.

Established: October 13, 1775

Headquarters: The Pentagon, Arlington County, Virginia, United States

Motto: Non sibi sed patriae (Not self, but country)

Commander-in-Chief: President of the United States

Chief of Naval Operations: Admiral
2

33
votes
U.S. Government · Public domain

US Marine Corps

Known for their tough training and emphasis on physical fitness, the Marines offer a sense of camaraderie and pride that is unmatched.
The US Marine Corps (USMC) is a branch of the United States Armed Forces that specializes in amphibious and expeditionary warfare. It is known for its intense training and discipline, and for being the first to respond to crises around the world.

Size: Approximately 186,000 active duty Marines and 38,500 reserve Marines.

Mission: To provide power projection from the sea, using the mobility of the US Navy to deliver combined-arms task forces.

Headquarters: The Pentagon, Arlington, Virginia, United States.

Motto: Semper Fidelis (Always Faithful).

Colors: Scarlet and gold.
3

19
votes
U.S. Air Force photo by TSgt Ben Bloker - Selective noise reduction by Diliff · Public domain

US Air Force

National Security Act of 1947

As the branch responsible for air and space operations, the Air Force offers exciting opportunities for pilots and those interested in technology and innovation.
The United States Air Force (USAF) is the aerial and space warfare branch of the United States Armed Forces. It was established on September 18, 1947, and is the youngest branch of the U.S. military. The USAF is responsible for safeguarding the nation's interests through air, space, and cyberspace.

Headquarters: The Pentagon, Arlington County, Virginia, U.S.

Motto: Aim High... Fly-Fight-Win

Commander-in-Chief: President of the United States

Department: Department of the Air Force (DoAF)

Primary Roles: Aerial warfare, space warfare, cyberspace warfare
4

18
votes
Noah Wulf · CC BY-SA 4.0

US Coast Guard

United States Congress

With a mission focused on protecting the nation's coastlines and waterways, the Coast Guard offers the chance to save lives and make a difference in your community.
The US Coast Guard is a military branch of the United States that focuses on maritime law enforcement, search and rescue operations, and maritime security. It is responsible for ensuring the safety, security, and stewardship of America's waters and coastline.

Motto: Semper Paratus (Always Ready)

Formation: 4 August 1790

Headquarters: Washington, D.C.

Commander-in-Chief: President of the United States

Roles: Maritime law enforcement, search and rescue, marine environmental protection, maritime safety, and security
5

16
votes
British Royal Marines

King Charles II

Known for their elite training and ability to operate in any environment, the Royal Marines offer a challenging and rewarding experience.
The British Royal Marines are the amphibious branch of the Royal Navy of the United Kingdom. They are a highly specialized and elite fighting force known for their versatility and ability to operate in any environment, be it on land, at sea, or in the air. The Royal Marines are renowned for their rigorous training and high standards, making them one of the most prestigious branches of the British Armed Forces.

Established: 28 October 1664

Motto: Per Mare, Per Terram (By Sea, By Land)

Headquarters: HMNB Devonport, Plymouth, England

Role: Specialist amphibious warfare force

Size: Approximately 7,000 personnel
6

10
votes
French Foreign Legion

King Louis Philippe

With a reputation for being one of the toughest military units in the world, the Legion offers a chance to serve alongside soldiers from all over the globe.
The French Foreign Legion is a renowned special forces unit that is a part of the French Army. It was established on March 9, 1831, by King Louis Philippe and continues to be a vital component of French military operations. The Legion is composed of foreign volunteers from various countries around the world, and its primary role is to conduct missions ranging from combat operations to humanitarian assistance.

Formation: March 9, 1831

Country: France

Role: Special Forces

Composition: Foreign volunteers

Missions: Combat operations, humanitarian assistance
French Foreign Legion in other rankings
- Position 5 of 10 in Most advanced special force
- Position 7 of 10 in Most difficult military branch
7

11
votes
Australian SAS

As one of the most elite special forces units in the world, the SAS offers the chance to be part of a small, tight-knit team that operates in high-stakes situations.
The Australian Special Air Service Regiment (SAS) is an elite special operations force of the Australian Army. It is one of the most advanced special forces in the world, specializing in unconventional warfare, counter-terrorism, reconnaissance, and direct action missions.

Selection Process: Rigorous selection process that includes physical and psychological assessments.

Training: Intense and demanding training programs that focus on combat skills, marksmanship, survival, and evasion tactics.

Small Team Operations: Operates in small teams of highly trained soldiers for greater flexibility and effectiveness.

Specializations: Expertise in various disciplines including parachuting, diving, close quarters combat, and covert surveillance.

Counter-Terrorism Capability: Highly skilled in counter-terrorism operations and hostage rescue missions.
Australian SAS in other rankings
- Position 7 of 10 in Most advanced special force
8

10
votes
רונאלדיניו המלך · CC BY-SA 3.0

Israeli Defense Forces

The State of Israel

With a focus on protection and security, the IDF offers the chance to serve a country that is constantly under threat.
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) is the military forces of the State of Israel. It is a combined arms force, comprising of ground, air, and naval components. The IDF's main objective is to protect the security and interests of Israel, both within its borders and beyond.

Active personnel: Approximately 169,500

Reserve personnel: Approximately 465,000

Budget: USD 20.47 billion

Main battle tanks: Approximately 2,760

Total aircraft: Approximately 684
Israeli Defense Forces in other rankings
- Position 4 of 10 in Most advanced army in the world
- Position 10 of 10 in Most popular branch of the military
9

11
votes
w:Vympel Олеся Базалевская · Public domain

Russian Spetsnaz

With a history dating back to World War II, the Spetsnaz are known for their toughness and ability to operate in any environment.
Russian Spetsnaz, also known as Special Operations Forces, is a highly skilled and secretive military branch of the Russian Armed Forces. It is primarily responsible for carrying out special operations, intelligence gathering, counter-terrorism, and unconventional warfare tasks.

Training Intensity: Spetsnaz undergoes rigorous and demanding training, including hand-to-hand combat, marksmanship, tactical skills, paratrooper training, and survival skills.

Versatility: Spetsnaz units are trained in a wide range of special operations, allowing them to operate in various environments and under different conditions.

High Level of Secrecy: Spetsnaz operatives operate covertly and maintain a high level of secrecy, both in their actions and their identities.

Specialized Equipment: Spetsnaz units are equipped with advanced weaponry, communication systems, surveillance and reconnaissance tools, explosives, and protective gear.

Physical Fitness: Members of Spetsnaz undergo intense physical conditioning to ensure they are capable of enduring arduous missions and maintaining peak performance in a combat situation.
Russian Spetsnaz in other rankings
- Position 5 of 10 in Most difficult military branch
10

11
votes
German KSK

As one of the newest special forces units in the world, the KSK offers the chance to be part of a modern and highly skilled team.
The German KSK (Kommando Spezialkräfte) is the most advanced special force of Germany, specializing in counter-terrorism, special reconnaissance, and unconventional warfare. It is known for its exceptional training, high level of secrecy, and strict selection process. The KSK operates under the Bundeswehr Special Operations Division and is highly respected for its operational capabilities and professionalism.

Formation Year: 1996

Training Duration: 1-2 years

Selection Rate: Less than 10%

Size: Approximately 1,100 personnel

Missions: Counter-terrorism, special reconnaissance, unconventional warfare
German KSK in other rankings
- Position 6 of 10 in Most advanced special force

Missing your favorite branch?

Graphs

Discussion

Ranking factors for fun branch

Job variety and opportunities

Consider the range and diversity of jobs and roles available within each branch, as well as the prospects for career advancement and personal growth.
Training and education

Evaluate the quality and variety of training programs, and the opportunities for continued education and skill development within each branch.
Location and travel opportunities

Assess the appeal of duty stations, as well as opportunities for travel and deployment around the world.
Culture and camaraderie

Take into account the social atmosphere, camaraderie, and overall morale within each branch, as these factors can heavily influence one's enjoyment of their service.
Work-life balance

Consider the expectations for work hours, on-call duties, and deployment frequency, as well as the availability of resources and support for maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
Physical fitness requirements and recreational activities

Evaluate the emphasis on physical fitness and the availability of recreational facilities, sports, and organized activities within each branch.
Prestige and history

Some individuals may prioritize pride in their branch, its history, and its reputation when assessing their potential for enjoyment.
Specialized units and elite forces

Consider the opportunity for specialized training or joining elite forces within each branch, as these can enhance one's experience and job satisfaction.
Benefits and pay

Although not directly related to fun, it's essential to evaluate the financial stability, benefits, and overall compensation offered by each branch.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most fun branch of the military. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or branch is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

1992 views
179 votes
10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each branch once every 24 hours. The rank of each branch is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most fun branch of the military

When it comes to the military, many people have different opinions on which branch is the most fun. Some may argue that the Air Force is the most enjoyable due to the comfortable living arrangements and exciting travel opportunities. Others may say that the Navy is the most fun because of the chance to be stationed at sea and explore different parts of the world. Those who prefer a more ground-based experience might say that the Army or Marines are the most fun due to the intense training and camaraderie among soldiers. Ultimately, the answer to this question is subjective and depends on personal preferences and experiences. Regardless of which branch you choose, serving in the military is a unique and rewarding experience that can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment.