At a time when the question of war and what it means to serve your country is especially relevant, this essential reference provides a comprehensive, authoritative look at the American armed forces. Written by a well-known military historian, this two-volume set is divided into four sections, each devoted to one of the four major branches of the U.S. military—the U.S. Army, the U.S. Navy, the U.S. Marine Corps, and the U.S. Air Force.

Approximately 1,200 entries cover history; command organisation; heroes and leaders; mission and role; equipment, weapons, and uniforms; life and traditions; and special terminology. Each volume is organised in an easy-to-use, A-to-Z format. An essential reference for the study of the four branches of the American armed forces, Encyclopedia of the American Armed Forces is an invaluable reference.