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[Da-Chief]

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Da-Chief

[Marine6468]

Chief:

I am a former Marine - 64- 68. Our son has just entered Navy bootcamp at the Lakes and will be going to his "A" school for Navy Corpsman. While I had contact with a number of corpsman during my time in, I really don't have a clear understanding of what their training, functions, etc encompass. I noticed that you have several forums that address different duties - FMF, subs, Fleet, hospitals, etc - but I have not had a lot of luck in finding out what his training will consist of, how he selects his area of specialization (I know he has to volunteer for FMF but must/can he also volunteer for subs or aviation?), and where he might end up being stationed. Is there a web site I can go to where I might find out this kind of information or can you help?

[Colmax11]

Marine,
I separated from the Navy about a year and a half ago as a Corpsman. I still keep in contact with some of my Corpsman buddies inside and out. I do know that the Corpsman and Dental Tech ratings have been merged. So your son will learn both rates, which will probably, inevitably, take a little longer to learn. When I went to "A" school in Great Lakes, it took roughly 4 months. I would surmise his schooling will take at least 5, but I am not too sure.
Once he gets there, barring any disciplinary action, he should have no problems calling home weekly, if not daily. He will be able to tell you how long it will take. The atmosphere is like college, only with watches. It is still pretty fun, though. When I was there, we had it pretty good.
As far as where he is stationed, that will be up to the admin guys. If he gets accepted into a "C" school (Schooling that will concentrate in one area, i.e., Lab Tech, Radiology Tech, etc.), he will almost definitely go to FMSS (Field Medical Service School) at Lejeune or Pendelton. He will have to pass FMSS training in order to get into the "C" school. IF he passes FMSS and his "C" school, he will only work in that particular area in which he is trained. It does not mean that he will not go to the sandbox, though, if that is what you are inquiring.
If he does not get into a "C" school, he will still probably go to FMSS. From there, who knows? I can tell you that several of my friends have been asked to come back in and have been sent over. Corpsman are vital to the overall health readiness of not only the Navy, but the Marine Corps, as well.
I hope this helped somewhat. I am sure you will probably hear from your son soon and he should be able to give you the gist of it all. I wish the best.....

[HM3FFAZ]

Marine,

I just got back from doing a month at Corps School for reserve training. We were with all students going to "A" school and were roomed with an active duty member. Your son will go to "A" school and at some point it will be decided if he will be going to FMSS school. He can volunteer if he wants but that is no guarntee. The school is self-paced but should take about 10 to 15 weeks. He will have a wish list of duty stations and try for a "C" school. Once again no guarntee. He will be off of school everynight and will have a chance to call if he has the means. I left on the 30th of June so my information is pretty current. I hope this will help. He will know more as time goes on. Be flexable. Semper Fi.

[Da-Chief]

Actually the school for regular students are now taking 10 weeks out of 14. This is a aveage mind you. Most are talking with the detailers after test 3-5. Depending on where they are being shipped to, they will have orders in hand. If not they will be on hold for a bit until all orders are in hand.

V/R
Da-Chief.