History
The United States entered World War I in 1917 to help the Allies in Europe. Its fresh troops and supplies were very important in helping bring the long, hard fighting to a close.
In World War II, the nation joined the fight after an attack in 1941. American troops fought in Europe and the Pacific to stop expansionist powers. The war ended in 1945 with the defeat of Germany and Japan.
Later in the century, the country was involved in the Korean War and the Vietnam War during the Cold War. These were times of high tension between the United States and other global powers. Today, the nation maintains a large military and works on international defense programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Notable Operations
Conflicts
United States Forces & Equipment
Browse the armed forces, weapons, and vehicles fielded by United States.
101st Airborne Division
This is a famous US Army unit that jumps from airplanes using parachutes. They are known for being very brave in big wars.
1st Cavalry Division (US)
This famous Army unit used helicopters to move soldiers around during the Vietnam War. They were very mobile and could reach battlefields very quickly.
1st Marine Division
The 1st Marine Division is a famous unit of the United States Marine Corps. It is known for its bravery in many important battles.
23rd Headquarters Special Troops
This special unit used tricks and fake equipment to fool the German army during World War II. They were known as the Ghost Army.
23rd Infantry Regiment
The 23rd Infantry Regiment is a famous US Army unit. It has a long record of bravery dating back to the American Civil War.
308th Infantry Regiment
The 308th Infantry Regiment was a brave unit known for the Lost Battalion. It fought with great courage in the thick forests of France.
406th Combat Engineer Company
This company provided engineering support during World War II. They helped build bridges and clear paths for other soldiers to move across the land.
603rd Camouflage Engineers
This group were artists and engineers who built fake props to trick the enemy. They were a key part of the famous Ghost Army unit.
77th Infantry Division
The 77th Infantry Division was a famous American unit during the Great War. It was made up of soldiers mostly from New York City.
Combat Medals & Awards
Air Force Commendation Medal
A mid-level military award honoring airmen for meritorious achievement, bravery, or outstanding service.
Air Force Distinguished Service Medal
A high military award given for exceptionally meritorious service to the government in duties of great responsibility.
Air Medal
A military decoration awarded for single acts of heroism or meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight.
Army Commendation Medal
A decoration awarded to soldiers for heroism, meritorious achievement, or exemplary service in the United States Army.
Bronze Star
A United States military decoration awarded for heroic or meritorious achievement in a combat zone.
Distinguished Flying Cross
A United States military decoration awarded for heroism or extraordinary achievement in aerial flight.
Distinguished Service Cross
The second highest military decoration for valor awarded to members of the United States Army.
Medal of Freedom
This foreign award from the United States honored civilians and allied service members who helped defeat enemy forces during wartime.
Medal of Honor
The highest military decoration of the United States, awarded for acts of valor above and beyond the call of duty.
Navy Cross
The second highest military decoration for valor awarded to members of the United States Navy and Marine Corps.
Navy Distinguished Service Medal
A major naval decoration honoring exceptionally meritorious service to the government in duties of great responsibility.
Purple Heart
A United States military decoration awarded to those wounded or killed while serving in the armed forces.
Silver Star
The third highest military decoration for valor in the United States Armed Forces.
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