If you are writing about a military member, you will definitely need to do a bit of research. First you’ll need to determine where the military installations are located and what the rank system is within the branches. Maybe a day in the life within the Coast Guard would be helpful or the profile of a soldier.
Do you know the criteria for burials at sea or who can be buried at Arlington Cemetery if someone dies in your story?
Perhaps your character sends a package to a soldier, for security reasons only designated organizations can facilitate packages to “any soldier” and there are also specific guidelines for holiday cards to soldiers who are recovering.
The Olympics are approaching in 2010, the military has provisions for soldiers who compete in the Olympics. Here is the history of the 21 gun salute and why a non-citizen can serve in the U.S. military.
The mottos have changed over the years so you may need to research them for the appropriate timeframe. This year they are:
Coast Guard: Semper Paratus “Always Ready”
Air Force: “Above All”
Army: “This We’ll Defend”
Marines: Semper Fidelis “Always Faithful”
There is not an official motto for the U.S. Navy; however, non sibi sed patriae “Not self but country” is often cited as the Navy's motto.