How The Military Uses Instagram

An Analysis of How the Military Uses Instagram for Marketing and Citizen Engagement

U.S. Military On Social Media: Instagram

How do the armed forces of the United States use Instagram?

Who is most successful and why?

How can people communicate with our men and women in the military on this social channel?

How Government Uses Social Media

Government (Main Topics)
Government on Social Media
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U.S. Military Instagram Accounts

Click on service branch insignia to access their Instagram account

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Summary

Over the last few years, the U.S. military has become more active on social media.

Since we first reported on how the U.S. military was using Instagram in November of 2016, the total Instagram audience for all military branches has increased by 2.5 million to 5.2 million - a 92% increase in 2 years.

Over the last two years, we have seen the US Marines jump out to a huge lead in Instagram followers. However, the US Army has steadily been catching up. The Army went from having 20% of all the military's Instagram followers in 2016 to 23% in March to 25% in late October, early November. The Marine Corps, meanwhile, has dropped in total share from 36% to 33% - but has held at 33% in 2018.

The Air Force and Coast Guard have remained remarkably consistent over the last two years. The Air Force had 18% audience in 2016, and they have 18% today. Likewise, the Coast Guard was at 5% of total audience in 2016, and is at 5% today. The Navy, however, has lost audience share. In 2016, the US Navy Instagram account was 21% of total military audience. The same true as recently as March 2018. However, in the last several months the Navy account has dropped to 19%.

Over the last two years we still see similar trends in that some branches continue to be more active than others.

For example, in February of 2018, the U.S. Navy only posted to Instagram 12 times. During the same month, the U.S. Coast Guard posted 84 pictures and videos on Instagram - with many as part of the service's celebration of Black History Month. In October of 2018 (as of our reporting), the Coast Guard made 51 posts to Instagram, while the Navy was 21

In our evolving dashboard below, we are collecting data and reviewing posts to determine how the Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marines, and Navy use Instagram, as well as how people interact with their accounts. What images and videos tend to be most popular and why? Who does our military communicate with on Instagram and why? And who are the most visible leaders in Instagram when it comes to our armed forces?

The purpose of this data is to help citizens, businesses, and other government agencies understand what is of interest to, and how to communicate with, the different branches of the U.S. military on Instagram.

Which U.S. military branch has the most Instagram followers?

(Data from October 2018 calculated by Government Contractors and Social Web Tactics. Percentage is based on total number of followers for all service branches, which is approximately 5.2 million.)
  • US Air Force (946,000)
  • US Army (1,300,000)
  • US Coast Guard (272,000)
  • US Marine Corps (1,700,000)
  • US Navy (982,000)

US Marine Corps Heads Towards 2019 With 1.7+ Million Followers

32.6% of all the total followers for U.S. military Instagram accounts belong to the U.S. Marine Corps. This is down from 33% several months ago, and down from 36% about 2 years ago when we first started collecting data. However, the Marines still remain the best service branch on Instagram.

(As of 3/5/2018 – Data calculated by Government Contractors and Social Web Tactics). Percentage is based on total number of followers for all service branches, which is approximately 4,269,000.)
  • US Air Force (767,000)
  • US Army (1,000,000)
  • US Coast Guard (209,000)
  • US Marine Corps (1,400,000)
  • US Navy (893,000)

US Marine Corps Faces Challenge From U.S. Army For Instagram Follower Growth

Over 33% of all the total followers for U.S. military Instagram accounts belong to the U.S. Marine Corps. However, this is down from 36% about 15 months ago. During that time, the U.S. Army has experienced tremendous growth - increasing their Instagram follower count by 81% to come in at 23% of all followers.

(As of 11/20/2016 – Data calculated by Government Contractors and Social Web Tactics). Percentage is based on total number of followers for all service branches, which is approximately 2,698,000.)
  • US Air Force (479,000)
  • US Army (551,000)
  • US Coast Guard (141,000)
  • US Marine Corps (968,000)
  • US Navy (559,000)

In November Of 2016, The U.S. Marine Corps Was The Leader In Instagram Followers

Despite being one of the smallest (in terms of active personnel) of the military branches, the US Marine Corps had almost double the amount of Instagram followers as the next highest branch (US Army), and 7 times the audience of the US Coast Guard in 2016.

Which U.S. military branch has the most Instagram posts?

(As of 10/28/2018 – Data calculated by Government Contractors and Social Web Tactics). Percentage is based on total number of posts for all service branches, which is approximately 11,468.)
  • US Air Force (14% - 1,592)
  • US Army (11% - 1,222)
  • US Coast Guard (44% - 5,067)
  • US Marine Corps (22% - 2,579)
  • US Navy (9% - 1,008)

Army and Marines Cut Into Coast Guard Share of Instagram Posts

In the last two years, the US Army and US Marines have cut into the Coast Guard's percentage share of all Instagram posts. The Army has grown from just a 2% share to now an 11% share, while the Marines have held steady at 22% of all Instagram posts. Never the less, the US Coast Guard remains the king of Instagram content with 44% of all posts originating on their feed.

(As of 3/5/2018 – Data calculated by Government Contractors and Social Web Tactics). Percentage is based on total number of posts for all service branches, which is approximately 9,628.)
  • US Air Force (14% - 1,396)
  • US Army (8% - 762)
  • US Coast Guard (47% - 4,529)
  • US Marine Corps (22% - 2,111)
  • US Navy (9% - 830)

US Coast Guard Still Creates The Most Instagram Content

The US Coast Guard remains the most active of the military service branches on Instagram - posting content several times a week. However, as other branches have increased their Instagram activity, the Coast Guard's percentage of all military posts declined from 50% to 47%. The biggest gainer? The U.S. Army, which increased its number of posts over the last 15 months by a whopping 433%.

(As of 11/20/2016 – Data calculated by Government Contractors and Social Web Tactics). Percentage is based on total number of posts for all service branches, which is approximately 6,131.)
  • US Air Force (18% - 1,089)
  • US Army (2% - 143)
  • US Coast Guard (50% - 3,095)
  • US Marine Corps (21% - 1,265)
  • US Navy (9% - 539)

US Coast Guard Creates The Most Instagram Content

Despite being the smallest (in terms of active personnel) of the military branches, the US Coast Guard is incredibly active on Instagram - posting content several times a week. They have produced more than 2x as much content as the Marine Corps and 21x more content than the US Army.

U.S. Air Force On Instagram

Detailed Summary: The U.S. Air Force On Instagram

The official U.S. Air Force account on Instagram is at: https://www.instagram.com/usairforce

Their profile motto is “Fly, fight, win in air, space and cyberspace.”

They specify in their profile description that external links or following of accounts is not equal to an endorsement.

The US Air Force is only following 144 Instagram accounts (up 7 from 15 months ago). Notable follows include: The Washington Nationals, GoPro, HuffPo, The TODAY Show, and the WNBA. The Air Force is no longer following the KC Royals. But they do still follow different fighter wings, air force bases, and the British Army.

% of Followers of All US Military Branches:

(Data from October 2018, March 2018, and November 2016. Data calculated by Government Contractors and Social Web Tactics)

  • US Air Force (18% - 946,000 - 10/29/2018)
  • US Air Force (18% - 767,000 - 3/5/2018)
  • US Air Force (18% - 479,000 - 11/20/2016)

% of Posts of All US Military Branches:

(Data from October 2018, March 2018, and November 2016. Data calculated by Government Contractors and Social Web Tactics)

  • US Air Force (14% - 1,592 - 10/29/2018)
  • US Air Force (14% - 1,396 - 3/5/2018)
  • US Air Force (18% - 1,089 - 11/20/2016)

Number of Followers on Instagram:

(As of 10/28/2018, the U.S. Air Force has 946,000 followers. On 3/5/2018, the U.S. Air Force had 767,000 followers on Instagram. The Air Force Instagram account has grown by 179,000 followers in the last several months, and by 467,000 in the last two years. This is an increase of 103%. Percentage bars are based on 2 million followers. Data calculated by Government Contractors and Social Web Tactics)

  • US Air Force (946,000 - 10/29/2018)
  • US Air Force (767,000 - 3/5/2018)
  • US Air Force (479,000 - 11/20/2016)

Number of Posts on Instagram:

(As of 10/28/2018, the U.S. Air Force has 1,592 posts on Instagram. On 3/5/2018, the Air Force had 1,396 posts to Instagram. Two years ago, the Air Force had 1,089 posts. The total today is an increase of 46% in the last two years. Percentage bars are based on 6,000 posts. Data calculated by Government Contractors and Social Web Tactics)

  • US Air Force (1,592 - 10/29/2018)
  • US Air Force (1,396 - 3/5/2018)
  • US Air Force (1,089 - 11/20/2016)

What Types of Images and Videos Perform Well for the Air Force?

Videos that have been popular on the Air Force Instagram account include action videos of fighter jets, as well as launches. Those posts have generated over 30K views. Other videos that highlight specific planes, such as the C-130 Hercules, also are viewed at high rates. The time-lapse video of a F-16 at sunset was incredibly popular. Others popular images over the last six months include the Star Wars helmet, refueling of a Raptor, other pictures of mid-air refueling efforts, and pictures of groups of fighters in the air.

Who Is The Air Force Following On Instagram?

The Air Force is following 144 account (3/5/2018), which is up from 137 on 11/20/2016. For purposes of our data collection, we have excluded non-Air Force accounts. As noted above, the Air Force does follow media websites, sports teams, and other non-military related Instagram accounts. Click to expand the directory of military-related accounts.

173rd Airborne Brigade

Official 173rd Airborne Brigade page.

www.army.mil/skysoldiers

180th Fighter Wing

Official page of the 180th Fighter Wing Ohio Air National Guard

www.180fw.ang.af.mil

NAS Fort Worth JRB

The official voice of the world’s first and finest Joint Reserve Base.

www.cnic.navy.mil/FortWorth

20 Fighter Wing

The mission of the 20th Fighter Wing is to provide combat-ready airpower and Airmen to meet any challenge, anytime, anywhere.

www.shaw.af.mil

Vance Air Force Base

The mission of the 71st FTW is to develop Airmen, deliver pilots and deploy warriors.

www.vance.af.mil

124th Fighter Wing

The official Instagram of the 124th Fighter Wing, serving the state of Idaho and the U.S.

www.idaho.ang.af.mil

455th Air Expeditionary Wing

Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan

www.afcent.af.mil/Units/455thAirExpeditionaryWing.aspx

301st Fighter Wing

Air Force Reserve’s only F-16 unit in Texas. We train and deploy combat-ready Airmen.

www.301fw.afrc.af.mil

94th Airlift Wing

Dobbins ARB

http://www.dobbins.afrc.af.mil

913 Airlift Group

Only AF Reserve unit in Ark. We work, train on and fly C-130s and stand ready to provide combat ready tactical airlift and support worldwide.

www.913ag.afrc.af.mil

59th Medical Wing

Welcome to the 59th Medical Wing official Instagram site. For more information, photos, videos and news visit our Facebook page.

www.facebook.com/59mdw

920th_Rescue Wing

“These things we do, that others may live.” Use #920rqw. Keep comments clean.

www.920rqw.afrc.af.mil

AF Special Operations Command

Mission: America’s specialized air power…a step ahead in a changing world, delivering Special Operations power anytime, anyplace. #AFSOC

www.afsoc.af.mil

Joint Force Command Brunssum

Allied Joint Force Command Brunssum #NATO #JFCBS

jfcbs.nato.int

USAF Parachute Team

United States Air Force Parachute Team Demonstration and Competition The Wings of Blue PTWOBS@Gmail.com

www.wingsofblue.com

Edwards Air Force Base

Welcome to the official Instagram site for Edwards Air Force Base! Follow us for information, news, photos, videos and more!

www.edwards.af.mil

419th Fighter Wing

U.S. Air Force Reserve Hill Air Force Base, Utah facebook.com/419fw twitter.com/419fw youtube.com/419fw

www.419fw.afrc.af.mil

121st Air Refueling Wing

Airmen of Rickenbacker ANGB. We value #teamwork and #professionalism in all we do. @ohionationalguard

www.121arw.ang.af.mil

Altus Air Force Base

Official Instagram account of #AltusAFB and home of the 97th Air Mobility Wing. #C17 #KC135.

m.flickr.com/#/photos/97amw

Holloman AFB

Holloman Air Force Base supports national security objectives by deploying worldwide to support peacetime and wartime contingencies.

www.holloman.af.mil

MacDill Air Force Base

The official Instagram of MacDill Air Force Base.

www.macdill.af.mil

45th Space Wing

Mission: One Team Delivering Assured Space, Launch, Range, and Combat Capabilities for the Nation.

www.patrick.af.mil

Minot Air Force Base

Home of the 5th Bomb Wing and 91st Missile Wing. #TeamMinot #minotafb

www.minot.af.mil

501st Combat Support Wing

The official Instagram for the 501st Combat Support Wing.

www.501csw.usafe.af.mil/index.asp

Ellsworth Air Force Base

Guarantee our Nation’s Combat Airpower – Anytime, Anywhere

www.ellsworth.af.mil

Ramstein Air Base Ramstein

Air Base is a U.S. Air Force base in Germany and serves as the home to the 86th AW, 435th AGOW and the 521st AMOW.

www.ramstein.af.mil

Kadena Air Base

Official Instagram for Kadena Air Base

www.kadena.af.mil

The official page of Luke AFB and the 56 Fighter Wing

luke.af.mil

Barksdale Air Force Base

Home of the B-52. Deter, assure. We are the mighty deuce!

www.barksdale.af.mil

RAF Mildenhall

www.mildenhall.af.mil

What Are Some Popular Instagram Accounts Related To The U.S. Air Force?

While the Air Force posts a lot of content, there are others who post content that supports the Air Force. These accounts have high visibility within the Air Force community, and should be seen as strong influencers. Click to expand the directory of accounts.

Official Global Military Aircraft

Most pics from Google & Some other sites. Videos from YouTube. SFS 122k. SO’s not free. Personal account: @a.j._cambra m.youtube.com/feed/account

Philippe Tondeur

Falcon7X pilot / Ex Military helicopter pilot / Collect Military Flight Gear /Failure is not an option

Sky Fighters

We post about aircrafts & military jets from all over the world.

hellenius pictures

Swedish, internationally published, aviation photographer. Specialising in air-to-air-photography. All photos published here are my work.

www.hepic.se

What Are Some Popular Instagram Hashtags Related To The U.S. Air Force?

We have collected some of the most popular Instagram hashtags used with posts for the Air Force. There may be other events or hashtags that the Air Force uses, so it is important to monitor trends to seize on any new hashtags. Click to expand the directory.

#F15 #AirPower #Plane #Aviation #AirForce #Sky #Flight #Fly #Planes #Pilot #planepics #instaviation#AVgeek #USAF #Airman #showofstrength #AFW2 #WoundedWarrior #WarriorCareMonth #Pentagon#SOCOM #AFMemorial #airforcememorial #usafmemorial #launch #space #operationinherentresolve  #airplane#aircraft #usairforce #c17 #c17globemaster #c17globemasteriii #CV22 #Osprey #CV22Osprey #mc130h#airforcespecialoperations #wyomingairnationalguard #c130 #AFReserve #C130Hercules #Hercules#aviationdaily #pararescue #pararescuemen #southernstrike #179AW #ANG #eglinafb #RAAF#KC30A #KC10 #KC10Extender #OneMissionManyNations #AirMobilityCommand#royalaustralianairforce #fighter #fighterplane #fighterjet #F22 #F22raptor #jsf #KC135 #stratotanker

U.S. Army On Instagram

Detailed Summary: The U.S. Army On Instagram

The official U.S. Army account on Instagram is at: https://www.instagram.com/usarmy

They state that the account is for “exclusive photos & videos of Soldiers around the globe!”

The US Army’s website: www.army.mil

In 2016, the US Army was not exceptionally active on Instagram. Over a two month period they posted 40 times to Instagram, which averages out to 5 times per week. The US Army Instagram account did not follow outside media organizations (only the Army Times) or sports teams (only Army college sports teams). Mostly, the Army followed National Guard units, the other military branches, DoD, and a series of civilian federal agencies.

However, the U.S. Army has changed its social media tactics over the last 15 months. A 433% increase in posts to Instagram has resulted in an 81% increase in followers. Though the total number of posts is smaller than any of the other service branches, the growth is by far the largest. What's more, growing to 1 million+ followers means that the Army now has the second largest follower base.

% of Followers of All US Military Branches:

(Data from October 2018, March 2018, and November 2016. Data calculated by Government Contractors and Social Web Tactics)

  • US Army (25% - 1,300,000 - 10/29/2018)
  • US Army (23% - 1,000,000 - 3/5/2018)
  • US Army (20% - 551,000 - 11/20/2016)

% of Posts of All US Military Branches:

(Data from October 2018, March 2018, and November 2016. Data calculated by Government Contractors and Social Web Tactics)

  • US Army (11% - 1,222 - 10/29/2018)
  • US Army (8% - 762 - 3/5/2018)
  • US Army (2% - 143 - 11/20/2016)

Number of Followers on Instagram:

(As of 10/28/2018, the U.S. Army has 1,300,000 followers. On 3/5/2018, the U.S. Army had 1 million followers on Instagram. The Army Instagram account has grown by 300,000 followers in the last several months, and by 749,000 in the last two years. This is an increase of 136%. Percentage bars are based on 2 million followers. Data calculated by Government Contractors and Social Web Tactics)

  • US Army (1,300,000 - 10/29/2018)
  • US Army (1,000,000 - 3/5/2018)
  • US Army (551,000 - 11/20/2016)

Number of Posts on Instagram:

(As of 10/28/2018, the U.S. Army has 1,222 posts on Instagram. On 3/5/2018, the Army had 762 posts to Instagram. Two years ago, the Army had just 143 posts. The total today is an increase of 755% in the last two years. Percentage bars are based on 6,000 posts. Data calculated by Government Contractors and Social Web Tactics)

  • US Army (1,222 - 10/29/2018)
  • US Army (762 - 3/5/2018)
  • US Army (143 - 11/20/2016)

What Types of Images and Videos Perform Well for the Army?

The Army likes to showcase its service men and women in action. The most popular posts have involved training exercises. Soldiers who have participated in specific types of training in the past comment frequently about their experiences. Live action photos, such as the firing of the Paladin (bottom right) also are popular. Providing images that show support for the Army mission or training are likely to be well-received by the Army, its soldiers, and others.

Caption this #throwback for #SoldierSaturday.

A post shared by United States Army (@usarmy) on

Who Is The Army Following On Instagram?

The Army is following 66 accounts, which is up from 49 accounts in November 2016. For purposes of our data collection, we have excluded non-Army and non-military accounts. As noted above, the Army does follow media websites, some non-military government agencies (NOAA, TSA and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service), and other non-military related Instagram accounts. Click to expand the directory of military-related accounts.

The Connecticut Guard

This account is managed by the CTNG PAO.

ct.ng.mil/elf

Wyoming National Guard

Official Instagram account for the Wyoming National Guard. Share your experiences with us: #wyoguard

wyomilitary.wyo.gov/17_014

Kansas National Guard

Official Instagram of the Kansas National Guard. Follow us at facebook.com/TheKansasNationalGuard.

Use #kansasguard

facebook.com/kansasnationalguard

Arkansas National Guard

The official Instagram of the Arkansas National Guard. Check us out at www.ARguard.org

www.arguard.org

US National Guard

Official account for the National Guard Bureau. National Guard: America’s First Military Responders.

www.nationalguard.mil

Strike BCT, 101st ABN DIV

The official Instagram account of the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division. Follow us on Facebook, YouTube, Flickr, and Twitter! #BeStrike

www.facebook.com/STRIKE2BCT101

Virginia National Guard

The official Instagram presence for the Virginia National Guard.

vaguard.dodlive.mil

California National Guard

Capturing our stories one snapshot at a time. Point, click, send us your best shot #CalGuard

www.calguard.ca.gov

Indiana Guardsman

Official Instagram page of the Indiana National Guard.

www.facebook.com/IndianaGuardsman/videos/10154001909298602

U.S. Army Cadet Command – CST

armyrotc.smugmug.com

U.S. Army Alaska

#USARAK’s official Instagram page! Follow us for exclusive photos & videos of Arctic Warriors around the globe!

www.dvidshub.net/image/2552726/army-aviators-help-park-service-prep-2016-denali-climb-season#.VyPJykulrRp

Fort Jackson

#FortJackson’s official Instagram. Follow for photos of #Soldiers at the largest & most active Initial Entry Training Center in #USArmy!

www.facebook.com/fortjackson

3d US Infantry Regiment (TOG)

The Old Guard’s official Instagram page, where you can find the latest photos and videos from the Regiment’s daily operations.

www.oldguard.mdw.army.mil

GoArmy

The Official Instagram page for goarmy.com.

www.goarmy.com

What Are Some Popular Instagram Accounts Related To The U.S. Army?

The Army does not post a lot of content. There are, however, others who post content that supports the Army and its missions. These accounts have high visibility within the US Army community, and should be seen as strong influencers. Click to expand the directory of accounts.

WPAOG

Serving West Point and the Long Gray Line. We are the official alumni association for the United States Military Academy at West Point.

WestPointAOG.org

PEO Soldier

Our mission: develop, acquire, field and sustain affordable integrated state-of-the-art equipment to improve Soldier dominance in Army operations.

www.peosoldier.army.mil

Operation Gratitude

501(c)(3) non-profit corporation, funded entirely by private donations that seeks to lift morale in the Military & First Responder Communities.

www.OperationGratitude.com

DVIDS

DVIDS is a 24/7 operation that provides timely, accurate and reliable connection between the media and the military serving around the world.

www.dvidshub.net

What Are Some Popular Instagram Hashtags Related To The U.S. Army?

We have collected some of the most popular Instagram hashtags used with posts for the Army. There may be other events or hashtags that the Army uses, so it is important to monitor trends to seize on any new hashtags. Click to expand the directory.

#USArmy #VeteransDay #Soldierforlife #paratroopers

U.S. Coast Guard On Instagram

Detailed Summary: The U.S. Coast Guard On Instagram

The official U.S. Coast Guard account on Instagram is at: https://www.instagram.com/uscg

The US Coast Guard follows all the military branches, as well as several civilian branches, departments, and agencies of the U.S. government. They do not follow any media organizations. But do follow Canada’s military and the British Royal Navy.

The Coast Guard used to follow three private accounts, which did not appear to have any direct connection to the service itself: Kevin Alvarez, Pretty Fly for a White Guy, and Ellie. Those accounts have been removed. The only business account the Coast Guard follows is for Iconosquare. It is possible they are a vendor. Though "liking" or "following" accounts does not equal endorsement, following this account stands out because it is unique from all the others.

The Coast Guard does not receive as many “likes” or “views” for its posts compared to the other service branches, but they do post a significant amount of content on a weekly basis. A high volume post for the Coast Guard will generate over 2,000 “likes” or “views.”

% of Followers of All US Military Branches:

(Data from October 2018, March 2018, and November 2016. Data calculated by Government Contractors and Social Web Tactics)

  • US Coast Guard (5% - 272,000 - 10/29/2018)
  • US Coast Guard (5% - 209,000 - 3/5/2018)
  • US Coast Guard (5% - 141,000 - 11/20/2016)

% of Posts of All US Military Branches:

(Data from October 2018, March 2018, and November 2016. Data calculated by Government Contractors and Social Web Tactics)

  • US Coast Guard (44% - 5,067 - 10/29/2018)
  • US Coast Guard (47% - 4,529 - 3/5/2018)
  • US Coast Guard (50% - 3,095 - 11/20/2016)

Number of Followers on Instagram:

(As of 10/28/2018, the U.S. Coast Guard has 272,000 followers. On 3/5/2018, the U.S. Coast Guard had 209,000 followers on Instagram. The Coast Guard Instagram account has grown by 63,000 followers in the last several months, and by 131,000 in the last two years. This is an increase of 93%. Percentage bars are based on 2 million followers. Data calculated by Government Contractors and Social Web Tactics)

  • US Coast Guard (272,000 - 10/29/2018)
  • US Coast Guard (209,000 - 3/5/2018)
  • US Coast Guard (141,000 - 11/20/2016)

Number of Posts on Instagram:

(As of 10/28/2018, the U.S. Coast Guard has 5,067 posts on Instagram. On 3/5/2018, the Coast Guard had 4,529 posts to Instagram. Two years ago, the Coast Guard had 3,095 posts. The total today is an increase of 64% in the last two years. Percentage bars are based on 6,000 posts. Data calculated by Government Contractors and Social Web Tactics)

  • US Coast Guard (5,067 - 10/29/2018)
  • US Coast Guard (4,529 - 3/5/2018)
  • US Coast Guard (3,095 - 11/20/2016)

What Types of Images and Videos Perform Well for the Coast Guard?

The Coast Guard shares a lot of pictures and videos from training operations, activities, and from the day in the life of Coast Guard personnel.

Given the wide range of responsibilities of the Coast Guard, they share pictures including lighthouses along the US coast, personnel pets, events / activities, and other moments that go beyond their core mission.

Capturing the Coast Guard in action is one of the most popular types of posts on their Instagram account. Over the past year, they have highlighted rescue efforts and salvage efforts in Puerto Rico and Houston - during and post-natural disaster. Photos also include supporting relief efforts in Haiti, rescuing illegal immigrants at sea, or conducting normal operations such as ship-to-ship refueling or nighttime helicopter landings.

As one of the Coast Guard's largest ratings, Machinery Technician (MK) offers opportunities for assignment at every Coast Guard cutter, boat, and shore station. MKs are trained not only as technicians, but as managers and leaders --- acquiring a breadth of knowledge in all areas of machinery operation and maintenance from internal combustion engines (gas/diesel gas turbines) to environmental support systems (heating/ventilations/air conditioning), hydraulics, basic electricity, and areas of hazardous material recovery and control. In addition, MKs will learn to work on the Coast Guard's computers and computer-based programs. Many MKs are also called on to act as federal law enforcement officers. #GoCoastGuard #uscg #careergoals

A post shared by U.S. Coast Guard (@uscg) on

Who Is The Coast Guard Following On Instagram?

The Coast Guard is following 56 accounts, which is up from 37 accounts in November 2016. Though the USCG does not have the same type of network the other service branches have, and they had no included other Coast Guard related facilities, that has changed over the last 15 months. Never the less, our data reflects those accounts that have a more direct connection with the Coast Guard’s missions. Click to expand the directory.

Admiral Paul Zukunft

The official Instagram of Admiral Paul Zukunft, 25th Commandant of the @USCG. Follow me on Twitter @ADMZukunft.

www.uscg.mil/seniorleadership

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary

The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary’s official Instagram. Follow us at live.cgaux.org the official blog of the Coast Guard Auxiliary.

www.cgaux.org

#GoCoastGuard

The official #USCG recruiting page. We protect those on the sea, protect the Nation from threats delivered by the sea and protect the sea itself.

www.gocoastguard.com

What Are Some Popular Instagram Accounts Related To The U.S. Coast Guard?

While the Coast Guard posts a lot of content, there are others who post content that supports the USCG. These accounts have high visibility within the Coast Guard community, and should be seen as strong influencers. Click to expand the directory of accounts.

Redstone MWR

Official Instagram account of Redstone Arsenal Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation.

www.redstonemwr.com

What Are Some Popular Instagram Hashtags Related To The U.S. Coast Guard?

We have collected some of the most popular Instagram hashtags used with posts for the Coast Guard. There may be other events or hashtags that the Coast Guard uses, so it is important to monitor trends to seize on any new hashtags. Click to expand the directory.

#uscg #uscgaviation #uscgaviationcentennial #shipboardtraining #helicopter #uscgcutter #CoastGuard #HurricaneMatthew#semperparatus #disasterrelief

U.S. Marine Corps On Instagram

Detailed Summary: The U.S. Marines On Instagram

The official U.S. Marine Corps account on Instagram is at: https://www.instagram.com/marines

Though the US Coast Guard has produced more content, the Marines produce a great deal of content as well for their Instagram account – and have the largest audience of all the military service branches.

When we originally started tracking, the Marine Corps was closing in one 1 million Instagram followers. They are now at 1.4+ million followers.

While there is no doubt that the other service branches have made significant improvements in their social media activity, especially on Instagram, the U.S. Marines remain the leader in how they interconnect their platforms, and use mediums, like Instagram, to share their stories.

What Types of Images and Videos Perform Well for the Marines?

The US Marine Instagram account has some of the best photography and videos of all the service branches. The posts are not just from the Marine Corps, but from former Marines as well. The kinds of posts and videos that are popular include funeral services for Marines of all generations. The Marine Instagram feed and its audience has a high level of respect for all fallen Marines.

Another popular feature is “This Week In 15 Seconds” which is a short video synopsis of key activities going on in the Marine Corps. The report is connected back to the Marines YouTube channel for additional details.

Other videos that are popular are training videos. One highlight of jungle training earned the hashtag “badass.” Photos of training activities also are extremely popular – especially those that showcase work in foreign countries such as Norway.

Who Are The Marines Following On Instagram?

The Marine Corps was only following 14 accounts in November of 2016. Of the 14 accounts, several have direct connection to the Marine Corps mission. As of 3/5/2018, they have increased that number to 18. For our purposes, we have limited the accounts we are highlighting to those with a direct connection. Click to expand the directory.

Marines West

Official Instagram for Marines West. Become one of The Few, The Proud, The Marines.

marines.com/12mcd

New Jersey Marines

The Official IG for the #JerseyMarines. (Marine Corps Recruiting Station New Jersey) Call 1-800-MARINES | Visit Marines.com

www.facebook.com/njmarines

Middlesex Marines

The official IG page of the #MiddlesexMarines Recruiting Sub-Station (732-777-7842) 561 Route 1 South, Edison, New Jersey

marines.com

III Marine Expeditionary Force

Official account of III Marine Expeditionary Force. Forward ● Faithful ● Focused

www.facebook.com/IIIMEF

Pacific Marines

The official account of U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific: Ready • Relevant • Responsive

go.usa.gov/chjdG

San Francisco Marines

SFMarines Use #WhyTheMarines to share stories of our Marines to inspire a new generation to write our history!

tinyurl.com/MOS-0919

Naples Marines

We are the Marines of Naples Florida. The gatekeepers of the Corps. Send us a DM if you want more info!

www.Marines.com

Marine Corps Reserve

We augment, reinforce, and support the total force Marine Corps.

www.marforres.marines.mil

New York Marines

The Official IG for #NewYorkMarines. Start your journey

marines.com/RSNYK

Marine Corps Association

We are the professional association of the #USMC. We publish the Gazette and Leatherneck Magazine. We support ALL #Marines through their career.

bit.ly/2eaqtqe

What Are Some Popular Instagram Accounts Related To The U.S. Marines?

While the Marines posts a lot of content, there are others who post content that supports the Marine Corps mission. These accounts have high visibility within the Marine Corps community, and should be seen as strong influencers. Click to expand the directory of accounts.

United States Marine Corps Unofficial Page

Bringing you the best Marine Corps content!

www.marines.com

Military Comrade

Est. November 27th, 2014 Harris. Find something worth dying for, and fight for it. Make America Great Again

www.facebook.com/military.comrade.official

Remember Military

Remembering Those Who Gave The Ultimate Sacrifice – All Military and Tactical Content – Contact us via DM.

MilitaryBoot

MilitaryBoot is here to serve you! With the best quality of military pride & humor this shithole social media platform has to offer! Veteran Owned

www.facebook.com/MilitaryBoot

What Are Some Popular Instagram Hashtags Related To The U.S. Marines?

We have collected some of the most popular Instagram hashtags used with posts for the Marines. There may be other events or hashtags that the Marines use, so it is important to monitor trends to seize on any new hashtags. Click to expand the directory.

#USMC #Marines #MarineCorps #MarineLife #sqaudcomp #competition #endurance #water#muddy #Iwin #TCR #TheCorpsReport #USMC #Marines #F35 #F35B #GenNeller #CMC#MOC #SemperFi #Oorah #Helo#Venom #badass15seconds #Warfare #War #Fight #TeamworkMakesTheDreamWork #Yut#GetSome

U.S. Navy On Instagram

Detailed Summary: The U.S. Navy On Instagram

The official U.S. Navy account on Instagram is at: https://www.instagram.com/usnavy

The Navy has not done anything significantly different since we first reported in November of 2016.

However, they do produce excellent, well-thought-out content (especially videos) that really showcase their people and their mission.

Overall, the Navy Instagram audience was 21% of the total audience for all the military branches, and accounted for 9% of all content in November 2016. As of 3/5/2018, those numbers are unchanged.

What Types of Images and Videos Perform Well for the Navy?

The Navy has done some exciting things with its video production. Placing a camera on the hull of the USS San Francisco to capture its 1,000th dive was very cool. Likewise, the video production showcasing the ships made from the 9/11 sites is very moving. The Navy also uses images of its fleet in movement or engaged in training operations. The picture of a ship experiencing “shock trials” to test its durability is quite gripping.

#USSFitzgerald aided by tug boats, returned to Yokosuka, Japan, June 17, approximately 16 hours after it was involved in a collision with the Philippine-flagged merchant vessel ACX Crystal while operating about 56 nautical miles southwest of Yokosuka. Seven of Fitzgerald's crew remains missing. The collision affected Fitzgerald's forward starboard side above and below the water line, causing significant damage and associated flooding to two berthing spaces, a machinery space and the radio room, which damage control teams quickly began dewatering. Once the ship arrived, divers began inspecting the damage and developing a plan for repairs and inspection of the spaces. It remains uncertain as to how long it will take to gain access to the spaces to methodically continue the search for the missing. Three patients required medical evacuation from the ship. One was Cmdr. Bryce Benson, Fitzgerald's commanding officer, who was transferred to U.S. Naval Hospital Yokosuka by a Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force helicopter. All three Sailors are awake and will remain under observation at the hospital until further notice. Other injured are being assessed. ℹ️: Click the link in our bio for the latest. #DDG62 #Military #USNavy @DeptOfDefense

A post shared by US Navy (@usnavy) on

#WW2Flyover in #DC in honor of #VEDay70!

A post shared by US Navy (@usnavy) on

Who Is The Navy Following On Instagram?

The Navy is following 65 accounts, which is up from 60 in November 2016. For purposes of our data collection, we have focused on those accounts that have direct support for the Navy’s mission. We have exclude news / media organizations, as well as third party navies and civilian agencies within the US government. Click to expand the directory.

NAVSEACorona

Official Instagram account of Naval Surface Warfare Center, Corona Division.

www.navsea.navy.mil/Home/WarfareCenters/NSWCCorona.aspx

NAS Whiting Field

Official Instagram account of NAS Whiting Field.

www.cnic.navy.mil/regions/cnrse/installations/nas_whiting_field.html

VFA-115

The official Instagram for Strike Fighter Squadron 115. This page is dedicated to all our sailors and the families who support them.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=LwH3tASazH4

USS Nimitz CVN 68

Warship. Carrier. Lead ship of the Nimitz Class. This is the official Instagram of USS Nimitz CVN 68. Follow us on facebook.com/cvn68.

www.nimitz.navy.mil

RIMPAC

The world’s largest international maritime exercise, which is held biennially in and around the Hawaiian Islands.

www.cpf.navy.mil/rimpac

USNPEOPLE

Official Instagram account of the Chief of Naval Personnel.

www.navy.mil/cnp/index.asp

What Are Some Popular Instagram Accounts Related To The U.S. Navy?

While the Navy posts content, there are others who post content that supports the Navy. These accounts have high visibility within the Navy community, and should be seen as strong influencers. Click to expand the directory of accounts.

Naval History and Heritage

Official Instagram Account of the Naval History and Heritage Command.

usnhistory.navylive.dodlive.mil/2014/12/09/grace-hopper-navy-to-the-core-a-pirate-at-heart

Navy Wounded Warrior

The official Instagram account for Navy Wounded Warrior – Safe Harbor

www.navywoundedwarrior.com

Austal USA

#Austal’s state-of-the-art ship manufacturing facility in #MobileAL builds the Littoral Combat Ship (#LCS) & Expeditionary Fast Transport (#EPF)

usa.austal.com

U.S. Navy Blue Angels

www.blueangels.navy.mil

What Are Some Popular Instagram Hashtags Related To The U.S. Navy?

We have collected some of the most popular Instagram hashtags used with posts for the Navy. There may be other events or hashtags that the Navy uses, so it is important to monitor trends to seize on any new hashtags. Click to expand the directory.

#USNavy #USSSanFrancisco #Military #Submarines #USNavyLife#SSN711 #USSZumwalt #F35 #AircraftCarrier#AirPower #CVN74 #CVN76 #LifeOnTheWater #NavyLife #USSJohnCStennis #USSRonaldReaga

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