It's amazing how the media plays a part in how people portray the military and whether or not they are "doing anything". There are dozens of active combat operations going on right now where people in all 50 states have a critical role in.
But because its not flashy it doesn't get the headlines. You'll hear about the Heli that got shot down and killed 14 servicemen but you won't hear about the hundreds of successfully missions that happen each day.
It's like that Futurama quote . "When you're doing something right, people won't be sure you've doing anything at all"
The US military is capable of be 100% autonomous. Meaning it can fully sustain itself without any outside government or assistance. No other military in the world has that capability.
Every member does their part and makes their own sacrifices. Everyone takes the same oath of service no matter the branch or job.