To which branch of government do the U.S. Armed Forces belong?

The U.S. Armed Forces belong to the Executive Branch of government. This is because the President of the United States, who is the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, is a part of the Executive Branch. The primary role of the Executive Branch is to enforce and implement laws, and the military serves as the tool through which the President can fulfill his responsibility to maintain national security and conduct foreign policy.

The connection between the military and the Executive Branch is established in the U.S. Constitution, which gives the President this power. Additionally, the Secretary of Defense, who oversees the Department of Defense and the military services, is a key figure within the Executive Branch.

In contrast, the Legislative Branch is responsible for making laws, while the Judicial Branch interprets them. Local Government refers to municipal or regional authorities, which do not have jurisdiction over the Armed Forces. Thus, recognizing the position of the U.S. Armed Forces within the Executive Branch highlights their role in upholding and executing the laws and policies determined by the government.