8404 bonus SHOW ME THE MONEY

[docvader]

Hey I have an idea how about an 8404 Bonus. Last year I reenlisted between patrols next to a LCPL who recieved 32,000 dollars. I had to sell back leave. Right now 8404s are in demand. So much that sailors are being pulled from shore duty to go with Marines???? I know the "complications" with giving up a bonus well at least what Ive heard. Does a Lab techs Job put him in as much danger than im in Or a radio tech or they more valuable.I dont see them getting shot at but they get a bonus. Here is my suggestion any sailor that is detailed to a VICTOR unit be temporarily given the designation 8404v. Im sure more sailors would be cured of their STDs (scared to deploy)If they were getting some extra money. Maybe those poor guys getting MAPPED out against their will would be able to enjoy shoretime because more sailors would step up to do this. One of the finest Corpsman I know just left here to enlist in the army They offered him 20000 plus one rank. I am losing Junior sailors left and right. All i can offer them is a chance at combat and the pride of being a marine Corpsman. To be honest that is not enough. So Big Navy ....SHOW ME THE MONEY. Oh and the 100 dollars extra you give me a month. I spend that on the phone calls.........

[HMC8404]

Right now 8404s are in demand. So much that sailors are being pulled from shore duty to go with Marines????
Don't forget that every male graduating basic is now required to get the 8404, so a bonus won't be coming your way.

I do agree with you though, that is one that should be a bonus!

[Nick13]

so im going to guess when yall say 8404 that FMF corpsman right ?? and ya im from texas ( yall ) :]

[8404]

Not necessarily. 8404 is the Navy Enlistment Classification, NEC code you receive when you graduate Field Medical Service Battalion, FMTB.

FMTB East:

http://www.lejeune.usmc.mil/fmtb/index.shtml

FMTB West:

http://www.cpp.usmc.mil/schools/fmtb/index.asp

Graduating this school, does not guarantee you going with the FMF Marine Corps Infantry. It does however, provide you the necessary skills in order to function with them, should you receive orders there. Everything, is dependent on the needs of the Navy.

You could graduate Corpsman school and because of budgeting, no open seats available at FMTB, end up delivering babies in a Naval Hospital.

[Nick13]

Damn lol what about our need lol ........ya thats cool but it will help having that out of the way thats for sure i cant wait to bad its like 6 ish months away haha

[8404]

As far as your needs, the military gives you 3 meals, and a paycheck. Beds and showers depend if you're in the field or not. lol

Besides where else can you travel to, and visit, middle eastern countries for free? See, the Navy does look out for your needs. lol

[Nick13]

ya man what was i thinkn iv all ways wanted to go to the middle east sing me up ...o wait lol crap but me as a combat corpsman haha

[HMC-FMF-PJ]

There is a $20,000 bonus for HM-8404 joining the SelRes and $15,000 for SelRes who re-enlist.

HM-8404 get SDAP while deployed to the fun zone. Not to mention the other little extras warriors in the zone get....

Have you signed up for the HM-8404 MGIB Kicker? Its free money if you ask for it. How about the MGIB or REAP "Buy Up" for an extra $150 a month in educational benefits? Do you take advantage of the SDP whenever eligible? That could be an extra $1,000 a year too.

[HMC8404]

Not necessarily. 8404 is the Navy Enlistment Classification, NEC code you receive when you graduate Field Medical Service Battalion, FMTB.

FMTB East:

http://www.lejeune.usmc.mil/fmtb/index.shtml

FMTB West:

http://www.cpp.usmc.mil/schools/fmtb/index.asp

Graduating this school, does not guarantee you going with the FMF Marine Corps Infantry. It does however, provide you the necessary skills in order to function with them, should you receive orders there. Everything, is dependent on the needs of the Navy.

You could graduate Corpsman school and because of budgeting, no open seats available at FMTB, end up delivering babies in a Naval Hospital.
I have to disagree with you. Anyone with the NEC 8404 is considered an "FMFer" ... whether or not they've actually been assigned to a unit yet or not, they graduated the school. At least thats how I always looked at it. That would be like saying that someone who graduated from pharmacy tech, OR tech or some other "C" school isn't their designated "speciality" until assigned to it. Once you graduated the school, it's yours and it's on your orders and in your SRB to follow you for proper assignments later.

So ...
so im going to guess when yall say 8404 that FMF corpsman right ?? and ya im from texas ( yall ) :]
... Nick, this HMC(FMF)'s answer is "Yes", when we all say "8404" we're talking about those corpsman who are "FMF Corpsman" who have completed the school and are ready for an assignment with the marines.

[8404]

I have to disagree with you. Anyone with the NEC 8404 is considered an "FMFer" ... whether or not they've actually been assigned to a unit yet or not, they graduated the school. At least thats how I always looked at it. That would be like saying that someone who graduated from pharmacy tech, OR tech or some other "C" school isn't their designated "speciality" until assigned to it. Once you graduated the school, it's yours and it's on your orders and in your SRB to follow you for proper assignments later.

So ...

... Nick, this HMC(FMF)'s answer is "Yes", when we all say "8404" we're talking about those corpsman who are "FMF Corpsman" who have completed the school and are ready for an assignment with the marines.

Well gee.... :) Your disagreement is only based upon how, "you've always looked at it"?

I stand on my original post. 8404 = Field Medical Service Technician and is what you earn from graduating FMTB. It does not guarantee an individual a spot with the Marines. FMF = Fleet Marine Force! So, if you're not assigned with the Marines or stationed at a Marine Base, how can one be considered an FMF'er!

I do believe you can be assigned to a Marine Corps base, at the BAS or hospital, (not an actual division) and still be considered an FMF'er, in the eyes of others, as in my son's case at 29 Palms. However, nobody can place the FMF letters after their name until they have earned the FMF device!

I dont' want to give the impression to new enlistee's that if they graduate FMTB they are FMF Corpsman. Afterall, who are their patients? Marines or Sailors.

I fail to see your disagreement.

[HMC8404]

Well gee.... :) Your disagreement is only based upon how, "you've always looked at it"?

I stand on my original post. 8404 = Field Medical Service Technician and is what you earn from graduating FMTB. It does not guarantee an individual a spot with the Marines. FMF = Fleet Marine Force! So, if you're not assigned with the Marines or stationed at a Marine Base, how can one be considered an FMF'er!

I do believe you can be assigned to a Marine Corps base, at the BAS or hospital, (not an actual division) and still be considered an FMF'er, in the eyes of others, as in my son's case at 29 Palms. However, nobody can place the FMF letters after their name until they have earned the FMF device!

I dont' want to give the impression to new enlistee's that if they graduate FMTB they are FMF Corpsman. Afterall, who are their patients? Marines or Sailors.

I fail to see your disagreement.
Tony, why are you taking this personal? The question was, "so im going to guess when yall say 8404 that FMF corpsman right" and it was coming from someone that has no military background yet and is trying to understand the system. The correct answer (without getting too involved for someone like that) was "Yes", an 8404 NEC means an FMF corpsman (whether or not they've acutally been assigned there or not -- it IS their designator).

I won't get into semantics with you. 8404 = Fleet Marine Force which answered the man's question. The. End.

[8404]

Where do you see that I took this personal? I only used my son's situation as an example. The information I presented was learned from other CPO's here. I ask them, am I incorrect, please chime in so I and others may know what is factual.

I loved The End part. :)

[HMC8404]

LOL ... I always use "The End" when I really don't have a beef with someone and just want to say something simply. LOL

Like I said, I think the kid just wanted to know the basics based on the fact that he's learning all of our jargon. I was trying to keep it simple without going too much off on him with complex situations. This bonus might apply to him should he choose this path and that is what he wanted to know.

TGIF!

[HMC-FMF-PJ]

Hmmm,...

I'd have to say you are both correct considering the angle you are each working.

Yes, 8404 does mean FMF in the vast majority of cases but at the same time I do not consider an 8404 who has never worn green after FMTB/FMSS graduation to be FMF. To be a "true" FMF Corpsman you need to do a tour with the Marines, not just graduate a school.

Furthermore, to be eligible for the bonus a Corpmen needs to be assigned to a true FMF billet with the Marines in most cases. However, depending on which NAVADMIN they used when signing their contract, they may also be able to earn an HM-8404 bonus by serving with the Sea Bee's or Inshore Boat Unit (ie. an 8404 billet but not FMF).

The devil is in the details...

[docvader]

Hmm interesting replies...Im more concerned with giving a BONUS to those who are actually IN DIVISION for 3 years. My life is completely different from anybody at the NAVAL Hospitol, or anywhere else for that matter. Im talking about specifically the DOC who is running around on the ground with MARINES. There is a huge difference in what I do and what someone at logistics does. IM getting shot at and blown up.......

[HMC-FMF-PJ]

Maybe you are just looking at things from the wrong angle and only see the difficulties and not the existing benefits.

Like I said: Deployed HM-8404's get SDAP and other benefits the nondeploying NAVHOSP HM's don't get. Additional pay, tax free income, advancement points, greater opportunities to excell and obtain personal recognition, meritorious promotions, SDP, MGIB Kicker, camaraderie of brothers in arms, trigger time, "been there, done that" ribbons and t-shirts, free drinks at the Marine Corps Ball, etc. The SelRes also have $20,000 enlistment and $15,000 re-enlistment signing bonuses for HM-8404.

I am also confident your life certainly is NOT that different from the thousands of other non-MarDiv sailors who are deployed to combat zones in OIF, OEF, & HOA. It is also fairly safe to say that EOD has more close calls with the big booms than most MarDiv HM's. The civilian contracted truck drivers generally have it a bit rougher ride too. At least you are legally authorized to carry a weapon and shoot back. If things go sour, you also have medevac capabilities back to CONUS and full medical benefits. The same cannot be said for many of the civilian contractors in country. But, hey, you are all adults and you all volunteered to sign a contract to do a job.

And how do you justify your bonus when the Marine standing next to you does not get one? Is your in country experience completely different from his too?

[0311_DoC]

ok I just wanna know what NAVADMIN I use to get the RE enlistment bonus for 8404... I have only seen the recent NAVADMIN for enlistment bonus... anybody know what it is ????

[HMC-FMF-PJ]

AC, FTS, or RC?

[0311_DoC]

AC, FTS, or RC?

RC first choice, FTS second :)

[HMC-FMF-PJ]

NAVADMIN 142/07
SUBJ/REENLISTMENT, EXTENSION BONUSES AND MONTGOMERY GI BILL KICKER ELIGIBILITY FOR SELECTED RESERVE ENLISTED PERSONNEL
http://www.npc.navy.mil/NR/rdonlyres/4418E774-7CF8-4A4F-A19D-B50D500E6CB6/0/NAV07142.txt

5. ELIGIBLE SPECIALTIES AND INCENTIVE LEVELS. THE FOLLOWING TIERED BONUS PAYMENT STRUCTURE IS EFFECTIVE AS OF 1 JUNE 2007.

A. TIER 1 LEVEL AND SPECIALTIES:
6-YEAR CONTRACT = $15,000 (LUMP SUM) FIRST 3-YEAR CONTRACT = $7,500 (LUMP SUM) SECOND 3-YEAR CONTRACT = $6,000 (LUMP SUM)
SKILL NEC NOTE
HM-FMF 8404 1
HM 8427 1

C. TIER 3 LEVEL AND SPECIALTIES:
6-YEAR CONTRACT = $7,500 (LUMP SUM) FIRST 3-YEAR CONTRACT = $3,000 (ONE-HALF INITIAL + TWO EQUAL ANNIVERSARY PAYMENTS) SECOND 3-YEAR CONTRACT = $2,000 (ONE-HALF INITIAL + TWO EQUAL ANNIVERSARY PAYMENTS)
SKILL NEC NOTE
HM 8707 1
HM3 0000

NOTE 1: SAILORS APPLYING FOR ELIGIBILITY BASED ON AN NEC MUST BE ASSIGNED TO A VALID INACTIVE DUTY TRAINING (IDT) DRILLING RESERVE BILLET WHICH REQUIRES THE NEC (MEMBERS MAY BE CROSS-ASSIGNED TO A VALID IDT DRILLING RESERVE BILLET) AND THEIR NEC MUST BE EITHER PRIMARY OR SECONDARY IN THEIR NEC INVENTORY.

6. SAILORS SERVING IN THE RATES AND SPECIALTIES LISTED IN PARA 5 ABOVE MAY APPLY FOR THE MGIB-SR KICKER PROGRAM



ALL SelRes HM-8404's should submit a Special Request Chit for the MGIB-SR Kicker even if they are not going for the bonus or re-enlisting. It is free money, but only if you ask for it.

[HMC-FMF-PJ]

NAVADMIN 041/08
SUBJ/RECRUITING ENLISTMENT, AFFILIATION BONUSES AND MONTGOMERY GI BILL KICKER ELIGIBILITY FOR SELECTED RESERVE (SELRES) ENLISTED PERSONNEL
http://www.npc.navy.mil/NR/rdonlyres/3254D526-38AF-4871-8084-8E6CCE1DBA19/0/NAV08041.txt

NAVADMIN 037/08
SUBJ/RESUMPTION OF NEW CONTRACT BONUS AUTHORITY
http://www.npc.navy.mil/NR/rdonlyres/6124BC04-0BC3-4532-B25C-C8299E9F117F/0/NAV08037.txt

[0311_DoC]

Thanks Chief for posting the info up. I guess I am having senior moment, but I still don't see where there is a re enlistment bonus for 8404. I see the enlistment bonus. I am a sel res and have been my whole career minus mobilizations. is this the one I would fall under???

B. PRIOR SERVICE/AFFILIATION BONUS (SAILORS WITH PRIOR MILITARY
SERVICE):
(1) TIER 1 LEVELS AND SPECIALTIES:
SIX-YEAR CONTRACT = 20,000 DOLLAR (LUMP SUM)
FIRST THREE-YEAR CONTRACT = 10,000 DOLLAR (LUMP SUM) SECOND THREE-YEAR
CONTRACT = 7,500 DOLLAR (LUMP SUM)
SKILL NEC NOTE
BU
CE
CM
CTI
EO
EOD
HM 8404 1

And is there anything If I want to go FTS ?

[0311_DoC]

Chief ???? anybody ????

[HMC-FMF-PJ]

You're having some sort of moment... lol

Go back a page and read my post from "03-11-2008 06:50". I have a feeling you only saw my 2nd post I made a minute later at "03-11-2008 06:51".

[HMC-FMF-PJ]

Here's a quick breakdown of the basics:

A SelRes reenlisting as a SelRes falls under NAVADMIN 142/07.
. HM-FMF 8404 6yr = $15k
. HM-FMF 8404 3yr = $6k
. HM3 0000 6yr = $7k
. HM3 0000 3yr = $3k with chance at $2k more for another 3yr contract

AC sailors and civilians joining the SelRes fall under NAVADMIN 041/08.
[] New Accession Training (NAT) Bonus (Sailors With No Prior Military Service)
. HM 8404 6yr = $20k
. HM 6yr = $10k
[] Prior Service/Affiliation Bonus (Sailors With Prior Military Service)
. HM 8404 6yr = $20k
. HM 8404 3yr = $10k with chance at $7.5k more for another 3yr contract
. HM 6yr = $10k
. HM 3yr = $5k with chance at $3k more for another 3yr contract

[0311_DoC]

So since im Sel Res I fall under the 15K bonus NAVADMIN 142/07 and not the prior service..I guess that is what I was wondering. 5k is 5K :) but I was told that the NavAdmin 142/07 was no longer valid by my NOSC, so again still wondering who is right ????

[0311_DoC]

thats a great idea 8404. but as I stated im getting different info from different sources and its frustrating as well as confusing

[8404]

Go with what HMC_FMF_PJ says, he quotes directly from the Navy Admins. He posted the numbers for the Admins above.

I believe you can roll all of the bonus into your TSP account. Not for sure though. If you can, you defer ALL of the heavy hitting taxes, the government imposes on bonuses.

[HMC-FMF-PJ]

"SAILORS SERVING IN RATINGS AND SPECIALTIES LISTED IN PARA 7 ABOVE MAY APPLY FOR THE MGIB-SR KICKER PROGRAM"

Virtually all SelRes Corpsmen, even those not reenlisting or without bonuses, should submit a Special Request Chit to apply for the MGIB-SR Kicker.

I forget the exact amount, but the kicker will add extra money on top of your educational benefits each month (say $150 - $250 for 36 months). Furthermore, the SelRes kicker may also be paid when using MGIB-AD and REAP educational benefits. The MGIB-SR kicker is an incentive, rather than entitlement as is the basic benefit under chapter 1606. An individual may be granted an MGIB-SR kicker only once and must serve 6 years in the Selected Reserve of the same Reserve Component that granted the MGIB-SR kicker.

Most SelRes Doc's will qualify for the free money, but *only* if they ask for it!!

[0311_DoC]

I just went here http://navyreserve.navy.mil/Public/Staff/Centers/Forces+Command/WelcomeAboard/Enlisted+Bonuses.htm

and saw this info do I need to include this stuff??? such as: Mobilized members CAN gain eligibility for a bonus. Per MILPERSMAN 1160-030, a member can reenlist when they are within 12 months of their EOS. The following is the guidance to accomplish this:
1. Due to Active and Reserve NSIPS data system conflicts, a member must be reenlisted by using a paper copy NAVPERS 1070/601 (Immediate Reenlistment Contract). See Below. (You can click on icon to open the fill in pdf form
2. A Reenlistment Bonus Written Agreement must also be completed and signed. See below. You can click on icon to open the fill in pdf form

[0311_DoC]

"SAILORS SERVING IN RATINGS AND SPECIALTIES LISTED IN PARA 7 ABOVE MAY APPLY FOR THE MGIB-SR KICKER PROGRAM"

Virtually all SelRes Corpsmen, even those not reenlisting or without bonuses, should submit a Special Request Chit to apply for the MGIB-SR Kicker.

I forget the exact amount, but the kicker will add extra money on top of your educational benefits each month (say $150 - $250 for 36 months). Furthermore, the SelRes kicker may also be paid when using MGIB-AD and REAP educational benefits. The MGIB-SR kicker is an incentive, rather than entitlement as is the basic benefit under chapter 1606. An individual may be granted an MGIB-SR kicker only once and must serve 6 years in the Selected Reserve of the same Reserve Component that granted the MGIB-SR kicker.

Most SelRes Doc's will qualify for the free money, but *only* if they ask for it!!

So I just go into my NOSC and ask for the bonus..end of story ???? :)

[HMC-FMF-PJ]

I was told that the NavAdmin 142/07 was no longer valid by my NOSC, so again still wondering who is right ?

Your contact at your NOSC is mistaken. To the best of my knowledge NAVADMIN 142/07 is still in effect. If your NOSC is telling you the NAVADMIN is no longer in effect, ask them to refer you to the official message superseding NAVADMIN 142/07.

Bonuses can be changed frequently but only if (1) there is an expiration date in the original message authorizing the bonus or (2) a new message/instruction cancels the previous message but it has to be in black & white. Ask to see the cancellation in black & white or at least the reference number so you can research it yourself. Mr Dowd in New Orleans may also be contacted for clarification. Check the Navy Reserve website bonus page for his contact info and more bonus details.
http://navyreserve.navy.mil/Public/Staff/Centers/Forces+Command/WelcomeAboard/Enlisted+Bonuses.htm

Below are two examples of what you are asking for. Respectfully request the NOSC produce something that says NAVADMIN 142/07 is no longer valid. If they cannot produce it in black & white, then they should process you for the bonus. Use your chain of command or speak to the Command Master Chief (CMC) if additional convincing is required.

= = = = =

NAVADMIN 142/07 :
"NARR/REF A IS NAVADMIN 085/06 BONUSES, INCENTIVES, AND MONTGOMERY GI BILL KICKER ELIGIBILITY FOR SELECTED RESERVE OFFICERS AND ENLISTED PERSONNEL."

"THIS NAVADMIN SUPERSEDES REF A, IS EFFECTIVE 1 JUNE 2007 AND PROVIDES THE CURRENT BONUS LISTING OF ELIGIBLE SPECIALTIES."

= = = = =

NAVADMIN 041/08 :
"NARR/REF A IS NAVADMIN 065/07 RECRUITING ENLISTMENT, AFFILIATION BONUSES AND MONTGOMERY GI BILL KICKER ELIGIBILITY FOR SELECTED RESERVE ENLISTED PERSONNEL."

"EFFECTIVE 15 FEB 08, THIS NAVADMIN WILL SUPERSEDE REF A AND PROVIDE THE CURRENT BONUS LISTING OF ELIGIBLE SPECIALTIES FOR SELECTED RESERVE ENLISTMENT BONUS (EB), PRIOR SERVICE AFFILIATION BONUSES AND THE MONTGOMERY GI BILL - SELECTED RESERVE (SELRES) KICKER PROGRAM."

= = = = =

[0311_DoC]

Ok, thanks Chief. I will get on that. Im short on time so thats why I am asking all the questions.

VR

HM2

[HMC-FMF-PJ]

you can roll all of the bonus into your TSP account. Not for sure though. If you can, you defer ALL of the heavy hitting taxes, the government imposes on bonuses.

Yes, your entire bonus may be deposited into your TSP. The deposit will be pre-tax so you get an extra bang for your buck.

You may sign a bonus up to 12 months prior to EOS. Use this to try to time your enlistment to your advantage. If you sign the paperwork at anytime during a month you are entitled to tax free income (ie. combat zone exclusion) then the bonus is tax free too. You do not need to be deployed in a combat zone when the paperwork is signed, but it needs to be during the same month.

[HMC-FMF-PJ]

I just went here http://navyreserve.navy.mil/Public/Staff/Centers/Forces+Command/WelcomeAboard/Enlisted+Bonuses.htm

and saw this info do I need to include this stuff??? such as: Mobilized members

Your Career Counselor (or whomever is doing the paperwork) may contact Mr Dowd for guidance. Are you currently Mobilized or otherwise serving in an active duty status? If you are not on active duty orders, then that part does not apply.

[0311_DoC]

Chief, I am not currently Mobilized. I am possibly leaving in June for a deployment with a MLG unit. I wonder if I can extend a few months since my EOS is in April and then wait to re enlist when I am supposed to deploy? would that work? who is Mr. Dowd and where is he located?

[HMC-FMF-PJ]

It has worked in the past, but if not done properly it may backfire. Since it creates more work for admin, typically they don't like to do it. However, with a $15k bonus it could mean a savings of around $3,000 in taxes you won't have to pay Uncle Sam so it is worth the effort to try.

Try finding Mr Dowd's name in the NAVADMIN's and then you can tell me who he is and where he works. (PS: before his "retirement" to the CivDiv he wore anchors)

Visit this site too:
http://navyreserve.navy.mil/Private/Staff/Centers/Forces+Command/ManpowerAndPersonnel/Enlisted+Bonuses.htm

[0311_DoC]

It has worked in the past, but if not done properly it may backfire. Since it creates more work for admin, typically they don't like to do it. However, with a $15k bonus it could mean a savings of around $3,000 in taxes you won't have to pay Uncle Sam so it is worth the effort to try.

Try finding Mr Dowd's name in the NAVADMIN's and then you can tell me who he is and where he works. (PS: before his "retirement" to the CivDiv he wore anchors)

Visit this site too:
http://navyreserve.navy.mil/Private/Staff/Centers/Forces+Command/ManpowerAndPersonnel/Enlisted+Bonuses.htm

As requested. I should have kept reading all the way to the end :)

8. POINT OF CONTACT FOR THIS MATTER IS MR. PAUL DOWD, CNRFC N1C21 AT (817) 782-5040/DSN 739 OR EMAIL AT PAUL.DOWD(AT)NAVY.MIL.

[8404]

Looks like a Joint Reserve Base, TX phone number to me.

[Da-Chief]

Well this took all of 10 sec's to find.. go to this page..
http://navyreserve.navy.mil/NR/rdonlyres/E4FB06C6-A1B8-4670-92B7-6AD9064E581B/0/NAVADMIN142_07.pdf

http://navyreserve.navy.mil/Public/HQ/WelcomeAboard/Enlisted+Bonuses.htm?LGUID=21AD5593-1FA1-49DE-B483-7E56F6347B59

it is the current message for Bonus's for re-enlistment. Yup your eligible for one..
IF you have any questions call the number on the message.
;-)
Darrell
P.s tell your Reserve Center this was brought to them by Corpsman.com. If they would not like to pull their heads out of their asses I can work for them for a nominal fee.
;-)
Darrell

I have not yet checked the CREO groups.
Im on my first enlistment, but I extended to go to Germany.
I will have 9 years in counting my extension.
8404 is my only NEC


Ok so what you want to know is if there is a re-enlistment bonus.

Have you chcked the newest CREO groups?
Let me find you some phone numbers but also..
What enlistment are you on? 1st 2nd 3rd what?
How many years in?
NEC's?
Prior Active etc..
Let me know so I can work for you.
D/C
Well Im sure you have read the posts and my questions. My end of service or contract is 22 APR 08. I am more than likely going to be deploying with a MLG unit in June. They called me and asked. Either my NOSC admin aren't up to date or aren't really doing their homework. My first enlistment ended in APR 07 I extended to go to Landstuhl Germany for 365 days. So I assume my EOS is APR 08. I need to make a fast decision on what im going to do. I want to stay in because my goal is to get my anchors. But if I can get a bonus why not try for it.

[Da-Chief]

Hey HM2,
I can generally say though that they won't let you go unless you are "OBLISERVED" through the deployment. IF you can get someone to pull some strings for ya.. then go for it.
Later
D/C

[0311_DoC]

Thats why I am asking all the questions :) That is also why I asked if I extend for a few months and then re enlist if that would fly or not.....

[0311_DoC]

Ok I just called my NOSC, now they are asking me what zone im in???? I don't see anything on the NAVADMIN about zones, just Tier 1,2 or 3. Anybody have any input on this????

[0311_DoC]

OK straight from the horses mouth:

They are incorrect. NAVADMIN 142/07 is the message for members
currently in the drilling reserve that are reenlisting. HM-8404 is
bonus eligible providing you are in an 8404 billet. Just having the NEC
does not qualify you.


V/R
Mr. Paul Dowd (NCC, Ret)
Director, Education and Incentive Programs
Commander, Navy Reserve Forces Command
(817) 782-5040 DSN: 739
Fax: (817) 782-1688

[Da-Chief]

I then ask you this.. What is your Mob billet? Just becuase your drill with a hospital unit does not mean your mob billet is a hospital billet..

IF it is a 8404 billet.. Then your set..
;-)

Later
D/C

[0311_DoC]

Oh my chit is already going up the chain for going back green :)

[Hog Wild]

Everything, is dependent on the needs of the Navy.

What are the needs of the navy right now, in 2008, in its present circumstances? I keep hearing this, but I never hear anybody expand on what those needs happen to be at this time. Not a gripe, but I just would like to know if deploying with the FMF (something that I want to do) is prevalent to the present needs. Thanks.

[8404]

What are the needs of the navy right now, in 2008, in its present circumstances? I keep hearing this, but I never hear anybody expand on what those needs happen to be at this time. Not a gripe, but I just would like to know if deploying with the FMF (something that I want to do) is prevalent to the present needs. Thanks.

We apologize if you haven't heard anybody expand on what those needs happen to be at this time for 2008.

I have personally posted throughout various threads, that nobody can guarantee you a billet with a Marine unit, deploying or otherwise, for any given year!

Read more here: http://www.corpsman.com/forum/showthread.php?p=29729#post29729

"You only have the 'choice' for Corpsman or any Navy Enlistment Classification Code, NEC that you may qualify for.

Currently, all males attend FMTB, which upon graduation gives you the Navy Enlistment Classification code of HM-8404. This school teaches the necessary skills for you, as a FMF Corpsman, to operate within the Fleet Marine Force, FMF and the Marines.

What it does not do, is guarantee you a billet with the Marines. All of your military assignments will be based upon the needs of the Navy, or whatever branch you are a member of.

Anything can happen, once you graduate Hospital Corps school. You could be stationed at a hospital, a clinic or Battalion Aid Station, on a Marine Corps base and still not be stationed with a Marine unit! You could be stationed at a hospital on a Naval base and never see a Marine. Any of these assignments could be anywhere in the world.

However, because we are at war and HM-8404's are very much needed, I don't think you will have an issue getting orders with a Marine unit. Make sure you tell your instructors at RTC, (boot camp) and at Hospital Corps school of your wishes. They can help you out with that endeavor."

There is a host of information readily available regarding, recruiting, FMF, Marines, Hospitals throughout the site.

Please feel free to post any questions you may have and don't wait so long next time. Chime in. That is what we are here for.

[HMC-FMF-PJ]

What are the needs of the navy right now, in 2008, in its present circumstances? ... I just would like to know if deploying with the FMF ... is prevalent to the present needs.

The needs of the Navy can be seen as a catch all phrase which describes the continually changing known and unknown variables that may become the controlling factor when determining opportunities and possibilities.

Some "needs" are virtually carved in stone through various legislative mandates, while other "needs" will appear, disappear, change, or reverse at the mere whim of almost anyone in the chain of command above you; from your immediate CO to the Commander-In-Chief.

One could look at OIF, OEF, and HOA and safely assume that operating forces are going to need Doc's serving next to the troops, Doc's at the BAS, Doc's on board CASEVAC's, and Doc's at the STP, FRSS, Fleet Hosp, etc. I do not expect these needs to disappear any time soon, even with the election in November.

[8404]

Yep......what HMC-FMF-PJ said!

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1359/1185127086_0cd6d82af8.jpg?v=0

.....I'm just a silly wabbit...and getting tired of these carrots....

[DeeDee]

I just love that phrase "needs of the Navy", "needs of the Air Force", "needs of the Army", "needs of the Marines", "needs of the Coast Guard"

All it boils down to is that you will go where you are NEEDED.
It may or may not be where you WANT to go but GO you will :D
Your needs are not a priority with any branch of the military - you think I WANTED to go to UTAH after completing my training? HECK NO, I wanted to go somewhere interesting like GERMANY (of course, several people I know ended up in exotic GUAM - see it could have been worse) ROFL ;)
Basically you roll with the punches and hope that sooner or later you end up on a base or with a unit that is where you really WANT to be.

[HMC-FMF-PJ]

In my humble opinion, it is not all that different in the civilian sector for millions of employees.

Businesses will have you relocate, travel, change shifts, transfer offices, etc. and otherwise make you do things you may or may not want to do in order to meet the "needs of the company."

[Hog Wild]

I appreciate it. Yeah, I can see now that the "needs of the Navy" is an ever-evolving enigma that you just can't really put a finger on until you've been at its mercy. Thanks everybody.

[0311_DoC]

So if I read this correctly, if I volunteer to get mobilized I loose the bonus?


WRITTEN AGREEMENT FOR THE NAVAL RESERVE REENLISTMENT/EXTENSION BONUS
(Chapter 5, Title 37, U.S. Code, Section 308b)
a. Name (LAST, First, Middle Initial) b. Social Security Number: c. Bonus RATING / NEC d. Bonus Award Level: (From message )

1. In connection with my reenlistment/extension in the Naval Reserve, I hereby acknowledge that I must fully meet the eligibility criteria listed in this section to be
considered for bonus entitlement under the Reserve Component Incentives Program. I further acknowledge that final determination of bonus entitlement resides with
Commander, Naval Reserve Forces Command upon adjudication of my application for bonus approval.
a. I am reenlisting or voluntarily extending my enlistment in a permanent rating or specialty that is approved for bonus entitlement by Commander, Naval Reserve
Forces Command.
b. I have not more than 16 years of total military service as calculated from my Pay Entry Base Date (PEBD) upon the date of this reenlistment/extension.
c. I have not previously received a Drilling Reserve reenlistment/extension bonus except as provided in paragraph d. below
d. If I am entering into a 3-year bonus agreement, I understand that I may qualify for an additional bonus if I reenlist or extend my enlistment for a second 3-year term
on or before the date upon which my initial 3-year reenlistment/extension would expire. I also understand that to be eligible, my rating or specialty must continue to
qualify for bonus entitlement.
e. I am a member of the Naval Reserve in an Inactive Duty Training (IDT) status and I am a satisfactory drill participant per current Naval Reserve directives.

1. I shall incur the obligations of this agreement as follows:
a. I am reenlisting/extending for a period of 3 or 6 years and I shall serve satisfactorily as prescribed by regulations for the entire period of my reenlistment/extension.
b. I further obligate to serve in the same Military Department and in the same rating or specialty for which the bonus is approved, unless excused for the convenience of
the Government.
If I am not able to continue to serve in the Drilling Reserve for a valid reason approved by the Commander, Naval Reserve Forces Command, following a period of
satisfactory Reserve participation, I may be authorized up to one year of non-availability. I understand that if approved, I shall be suspended from this incentive and not
receive payments during the period of suspension. To regain eligibility for further payments I must return to a Drilling Reserve status prior to the expiration of the
approved non-availability and extend my commitment for the duration of the approved non-availability to serve the full qualifying period in the Drilling Reserve.
Entitlement to subsequent payments shall resume on the adjusted anniversary date of satisfactory, creditable Drilling Reserve service (i.e., the date shall be adjusted for the
period of non-availability). Failure to meet reinstatement criteria shall result in termination of the incentiv e and recoupment, as appropriate. Only one period of release is
permitted during the qualifying contractual agreement.

1. Based upon the bonus award level of my qualifying rating or specialty listed above in block 1d, I shall receive my enlistment bonus payments as follows:
a. Six-year contract:
T1A = Total bonus of $15,000, T2A = Total bonus of $10,000 and T3A = Total bonus of $7,500. I will receive an initial payment equal to one half of the total
bonus amount and five equal annual payments that will be paid upon satisfactory completion of service for the preceding year.
b. Three-year contract (first):
T1B = Total bonus of $7,500, T2B = Total bonus of $5,000 and T3B = Total bonus of $3,000 I will receive an initial payment equal to one half of the total
bonus amount and five equal annual payments that will be paid upon satisfactory completion of service for the preceding year..
c. Three-year contract (second):
T1C = Total bonus of $6,000, T2C = Total bonus of $4,000 and T3C = Total bonus of $2,000. I will receive an initial payment equal to one half of the total
bonus amount and five equal annual payments that will be paid upon satisfactory completion of service for the preceding year..
d. I understand that all applicable individual federal, state and local taxes are deducted prior to actual payments being made.

1. I shall be t terminated from eligibility as follows:
a. If I fail to participate satisfactorily in training with the Drilling Reserve per current directives that includes maintaining medical and dental readiness.
b. If I separate from the Drilling Reserve for any reason (including High Year Tenure (HYT), voluntary recall to Active Duty or order to Active Duty for Special Work,
or Active Duty Training, for more than 179 consecutive days); other than by death, injury, illness or other impairment not the result of my own willful misconduct.
c. If I voluntarily change to a non bonus-eligible rating without the express direction of Commander, Naval Reserve Forces Command.
d. If I fail to extend the contracted term of service for a period of authorized non-availability.

2. If I am my eligibility is terminated for any of the reasons stated in subsection 1, above, an amount to be recouped or reimbursed shall be computed, as follows:
The number of months I have served satisfactorily during the term for which my bonus has been paid shall be multiplied by the monthly rate authorized by the particular
bonus. That amount shall be subtracted from the total amount of bonus paid to me to date. If the calculation indicates overpayment to me, I will refund that amount to the
Government of the United States. If the calculation indicates that I have earned more than I have been paid, I shall receive a final payment in that amount.

3. Termination from bonus entitlement and/or any refund made by me shall not affect my period of obligation to serve in the Ready Reserve.

4. Recoupment of a bonus payment as calculated under subsection 2, above, shall be waived if termination was for any of the following reasons:
a. I am accepting an immediate appointment as an officer in the Ready Reserve, and have completed more than 1 year of the incentive contract term.
b. I am involuntarily separated from the Drilling Reserve as result of unit inactivation, relocation, reorganization, or a directed reduction in the Drilling Reserve force.
c. I am not recommended for retention in the Naval Reserve as determined by a medical review board, and that my medical condition was not caused by my own
willful misconduct.

5. I have read and understand each of the statements above, and understand that they are intended to constitute all promises or agreements whatsoever concerning my
reenlistment or extension of enlistment. No other promises, representations, or commitments have been made to me in connection with my reenlistment/extension bonus.
a. TYPED OR PRINTED NAME (LAST, First, Middle Initial) b. Rank c. Signature d. Date
a. TYPED OR PRINTED NAME (LAST, First, Middle Initial) b. Grade c. Signature d. Date
NAVRES Incentive Agreement 1-3, MAR 05
PRIVACY ACT STATEMENT
AUTHORITY: Chapter 5, Title 37, U.S. Code, Section 308b.
PRINCIPLE PURPOSE: To establish eligibility for the Reserve Component Incentive Bonus Program.
ROUTINE USES: Information will be used as a resource document indicating participation status of each servicemember in the Reserve Components Incentive benefits program. Determination of participation status
or eligibility will involve computer matching between Department of the Navy and the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) using information from this document.
DISCLOSURE: Voluntary; however, failure to provide the Social Security Number may delay processing of this agreement and may result in the respondents eligibility not being established.

[HMC-FMF-PJ]

You are reading it incorrectly.


But here too is another example of fine print and a legal play on words depending on the context in which the words are used. In this context, voluntary and involuntary do not mean what you think and have nothing to do with your willingness to mobilize.

In Sep 2001, President Bush declared a national emergency and issued an order for "Partial Mobilization" of the Reserve Component for the Global War on Terrorism (GWOT). All reserve orders for ONE, OEF, OIF, HOA, and several other GWOT operations have all been issued under that authority (with few exceptions). Those orders are legally "involuntary orders" even if you voluntarily put your name on the list to be issued the order to mobilize.

Basicly you have volunteered to be issued involuntary orders for mobilization to active duty.

Remember we are not speaking english here; we are speaking legalese. Its a magical language where words and phrases take on new meanings. It is quite common in legislation, contracts, anything involving lawyers and most things involving salesmen.

[0311_DoC]

Ok, good to know. heres the part that confused me :

1. I shall be terminated from eligibility as follows:

b. If I separate from the Drilling Reserve for any reason (including High Year Tenure (HYT), voluntary recall to Active Duty or order to Active Duty for Special Work,
or Active Duty Training, for more than 179 consecutive days); other than by death, injury, illness or other impairment not the result of my own willful misconduct.


You are reading it incorrectly.


But here too is another example of fine print and a legal play on words depending on the context in which the words are used. In this context, voluntary and involuntary do not mean what you think and have nothing to do with your willingness to mobilize.

In Sep 2001, President Bush declared a national emergency and issued an order for "Partial Mobilization" of the Reserve Component for the Global War on Terrorism (GWOT). All reserve orders for ONE, OEF, OIF, HOA, and several other GWOT operations have all been issued under that authority (with few exceptions). Those orders are legally "involuntary orders" even if you voluntarily put your name on the list to be issued the order to mobilize.

Basicly you have volunteered to be issued involuntary orders for mobilization to active duty.

Remember we are not speaking english here; we are speaking legalese. Its a magical language where words and phrases take on new meanings. It is quite common in legislation, contracts, anything involving lawyers and most things involving salesmen.

[HMC-FMF-PJ]

That is what I had assumed, which is why I tried to explain that in a legal sense of the word in this context, the law does not view your actions as "volunteering" for active duty. You are merely expressing your exceptional williness to receive "involuntary" orders for mobilization to active duty.

"voluntary" orders for recall +179 days
"voluntary" orders for ADT +179 days
"voluntary" orders for ADSW +179 days

compared to:

"involuntary" orders for mobilization up to 2 years ISO Presidential declared national emergency

= not the same thing

[depcobleigh]

Im a DEP recruit who is shipping to basic in August and i'm currently on contract as a Hospital Corpman. I am more than happy with this job but i would really like to become a field medic and join with a group of marines who are serving overseas. I would like to get deployed and do tours in Iraq or Afganistan. Now i am curious how i would go about most likely securing a spot as a field medic.
I would also like someone to in depth explain to me what a 8404 is and how to guarentee myself a spot in the FMTB...
I would really appriciate someone to answer my questions.

[8404]

Welcome Aboard Bleigh:

Were glad you're here.

Active Duty: Your contract states you are guaranteed a 'seat' at the Corpsman school. It is not a guarantee that you will be a Corpsman. One must successfully graduate the school in order to gain the Corpsman Navy Enlistment Classification Code of HM Hospital Corpsman. As active duty, the Navy usually doesn't write in a guarantee for a seat at FMTB. Additionally, depending on the time of year, seat availability you may or may not attend FMTB right after Corpsman school. You may have to wait a few months or so, until a seat opens up. During that waiting time, you may be stationed at a Marine Corps base, helping out at a clinic or a hospital.

Currently there is a push for all "male" Corpsman to attend Field Medical Training Battalion, FMTB. Successfully graduating this school will give you the HM-8404 designation. This school teaches you Field Medicine and how to interact with a Marine unit. Graduating this school does not guarantee you going with the Marines or serving with a Marine unit, it only provides you the necessary knowledge should you receive orders to a Marine unit. However, with the current state of affairs, you should not have much difficulty getting orders to a Marine unit. Make your desires of attending FMTB known to your Corpsman school instructors and they may be able to help you with your endeavors.

You can read more about Field Medical Training Battalion at the FMTB East (http://www.lejeune.usmc.mil/fmtb/index.shtml) website.

Your question of what is an HM-8404. Chief Mark A. Wright, HMC(SS) USN says it better than anyone can. Read
I Am A Navy Corpsman (http://www.usmemorialday.org/poetry/navycorpsman.htm)


http://www.usmemorialday.org/poetry/navycorpsman.htm

[Doc Hickman]

I agree with 8404 on this one, you must do your time to be considered FMF, I knew several sailors that went to FMSS only to go to Hospitals for the rest of their enlistment. I'm sure putting all of that training to rest. The true FMFers are the ones that went to the green side and paid their dues by living in the suck, and putting forth even more to go Marine regs, or getting at that time, the FMF ribbon. I ran into several sailors that had gone to Field Med School and still had no clue as to how I was wearing Alphas. "Did you join the Marines?" No "Did you have to go to Marine Bootcamp?" No, I followed my NEC and went FMF! OOO-RAH DEVIL DOCS & DOGS!!!

[8404]

...The true FMFers are the ones that went to the green side and paid their dues by living in the suck...

I haven't heard that term for over 34 years, ha ha ha.

[8404]

...The true FMFers are the ones that went to the green side and paid their dues by living in the suck...

I haven't heard that term for over 33 years, ha ha ha.

[raider_doc_C]

I agree with 8404 on this one, you must do your time to be considered FMF, I knew several sailors that went to FMSS only to go to Hospitals for the rest of their enlistment. I'm sure putting all of that training to rest. The true FMFers are the ones that went to the green side and paid their dues by living in the suck, and putting forth even more to go Marine regs, or getting at that time, the FMF ribbon. I ran into several sailors that had gone to Field Med School and still had no clue as to how I was wearing Alphas. "Did you join the Marines?" No "Did you have to go to Marine Bootcamp?" No, I followed my NEC and went FMF! OOO-RAH DEVIL DOCS & DOGS!!!

^^^^word to that^^^^
I say they give those corpsmen who never deployed with the marines or not attached to a green side unit a diff NEC...esp the ones who never leave the hospital....I've done my tour with 1/4 alpha (raiders) co. and it blows that my cousin is at balboa chillin never to see a green side unit...
i always call his NEC 84P.O.G's

[Doc Hickman]

^^^^word to that^^^^
I say they give those corpsmen who never deployed with the marines or not attached to a green side unit a diff NEC...esp the ones who never leave the hospital....I've done my tour with 1/4 alpha (raiders) co. and it blows that my cousin is at balboa chillin never to see a green side unit...
i always call his NEC 84P.O.G's Awesome!!! Alpha 1/4 was my first company I showed up as an E-1 fresh out of Corps School, and FMSS in 92! High Speed Low Drag the Raiders were. Gotta Love it! In 94 I was attatched to Weapons as the SR. Co Corpsman Dragons Platoon.

[HMC-FMF-PJ]

fresh out of Corps School, and FMSS in 92!

When & where did you graduate A-School?

I think it was about 1994/95 during a trench clearing live fire at 29 Palms when an attached Dragon gunner failed to properly check his back blast area. Let's just say that was a very interesting experience. Even with hearing protection our ears rang for a long time but at least we were able to walk away from it.

Stunts like that make you real religious about personal protective equipment and pretty intolerant when Marines fail to wear their gear.

[Doc Hickman]

I graduated Corps School (91235A)Great Lakes Dec. 20th? of 1991 then FMSS In Camp Johnson in Feb. Of 92.

[docmctee75]

Not necessarily. 8404 is the Navy Enlistment Classification, NEC code you receive when you graduate Field Medical Service Battalion, FMTB.

FMTB East:

http://www.lejeune.usmc.mil/fmtb/index.shtml

FMTB West:

http://www.cpp.usmc.mil/schools/fmtb/index.asp

Graduating this school, does not guarantee you going with the FMF Marine Corps Infantry. It does however, provide you the necessary skills in order to function with them, should you receive orders there. Everything, is dependent on the needs of the Navy.

You could graduate Corpsman school and because of budgeting, no open seats available at FMTB, end up delivering babies in a Naval Hospital.
...in How to Bend the Needle tip so that you can pull out strings with contentious marines (?) or are they taught that in Navy Med School?

SF,

Doc McTee :panda:

[Doc_Gill]

Little over three years ago I was involved in a focus group here on Guam. One of the observers was a Navy Captain in the Medical Corps. I approached him about this and this is what I told him. 8404 Corpsman who are currently serving with the Marines, who re-enlist with the Marines and stays with the Marines should get a re-enlistment bonus. I am not talking about a corpsman who is 8404 and is working at a hospital but a corpsman who is physically attached to the Marines. My argument was this. We have specialty NEC's that get bonuses and alot of them get to stay in nice air conditioned facilities and may or may not ever deploy. It is alot easier to give someone a bonus and cheaper than it is to train someone from scratch, not to mention trying to compete with the civilian sector. 8404 Corpsman work and train under extreme conditions and are on the front lines in combat and what do they get, hey great job here is a pat on the back for you. Certain NEC's that are in Iraq, Kuwait, Horn of Africa, or Afghanistan can re-enlist and get a tax free bonus and never really see combat or work and train like 8404 do with the Marines. So it is time that we do get a little more recognition for the training that we do, and the work that we do.

[Sarc88]

Awesome!!! Alpha 1/4 was my first company I showed up as an E-1 fresh out of Corps School, and FMSS in 92! High Speed Low Drag the Raiders were. Gotta Love it! In 94 I was attatched to Weapons as the SR. Co Corpsman Dragons Platoon.

Doc Hickman, I bet we floated together in 93. Did you deploy with the Tarawa MEU May to Nov 93? I was onboard the Ogden with the Force Recon plt, we had one company from 1/4 aboard. Col Hagee was the MEU CO and went on to be the Commandant.

[tact.medic]

Little over three years ago I was involved in a focus group here on Guam. One of the observers was a Navy Captain in the Medical Corps. I approached him about this and this is what I told him. 8404 Corpsman who are currently serving with the Marines, who re-enlist with the Marines and stays with the Marines should get a re-enlistment bonus. I am not talking about a corpsman who is 8404 and is working at a hospital but a corpsman who is physically attached to the Marines. My argument was this. We have specialty NEC's that get bonuses and alot of them get to stay in nice air conditioned facilities and may or may not ever deploy. It is alot easier to give someone a bonus and cheaper than it is to train someone from scratch, not to mention trying to compete with the civilian sector. 8404 Corpsman work and train under extreme conditions and are on the front lines in combat and what do they get, hey great job here is a pat on the back for you. Certain NEC's that are in Iraq, Kuwait, Horn of Africa, or Afghanistan can re-enlist and get a tax free bonus and never really see combat or work and train like 8404 do with the Marines. So it is time that we do get a little more recognition for the training that we do, and the work that we do.


I got a 20,000 bonus to re-enlist as an 8404. That was back in Aug'07. Check with your career counselor ;)

[WarriorCorpsman]

I just read in Navy times that the marine corpes and the navy are working together to get Corpeman special pay for extending there deployments...something that marines have been getting but the corpseman have not been receiving before...the marines thought that it wasnt fair or equal that they were getting the extra money for longer deployments and the navy corpsman that are right there with them werent getting the same treatment..and we all know that marines are all about fairness...

[8404]

Yep, corpsman.com staff posted the article, August 18, 2008 under military information/Navy News on our main page:

Top enlisted Marines push corpsmen equal pay for deployments (http://www.corpsman.com/forum/../2008/08/top-enlisted-marines-push-corpsmen-equal-pay-for-deployments/)

[MedEDoc]

Things must have changed since I was in the service. I graduated from NSHS Balboa, was stationed at Perris Island, MCLB Barstow and Camp Pendleton. In the reserve I was assigned to 1st Mardiv Med evac 619. I wore the "green" most of the time I was in the Navy, was deployed on exercises with rifle companies and never went to FMSS or received an 8404 nec. I was on active duty from June 1974 to Aug 1976 then Reverves unil 1978 when I was discharged for medical reasons resulting from a back injury while on exercises in 29 Palms (as a corpsman with a rifle co.) Reason for discharge was I was no longer physically fit for service in FMF. Was I an FMF Corsman or not?

[YardDog]

WOW, Can I get BACK-PAY for my FMF duties? They can keep the interest, since I have been out a while.....but equal is equal......all I can say is that it is about time.

Now if they would only do something for us Veterans of Gulf I, I like my 20 % but with today's economy.....blah......so someone PLEASE do something to help Vet's like me and the others who are suffering with $$$$ issues due to the economy. Let's face it, many gave some, but some gave all!!!

[MexDoc]

All please share with your E5 Personnel!
"The current E-5 HM 0000/8404 Sea Shore rotation is 48 month Sea and 36 months Shore. The E-5 HM community has 300 unfilled Sea duty requirements at this time. We are asking any E-5 HM 0000/8404 that would like to terminate Shore early, please submit a 1306. If all 300 requirements are filled the Sea Shore rotation will progress to 36 months Sea and 36 months Shore. Please contact your Detailer if you have any question."

AND WE ARE OVER MANNED :elvis: shorter sea duty is not an incentive..sorry Navy try again

[DOC P]

Well gee.... :) Your disagreement is only based upon how, "you've always looked at it"?

I stand on my original post. 8404 = Field Medical Service Technician and is what you earn from graduating FMTB. It does not guarantee an individual a spot with the Marines. FMF = Fleet Marine Force! So, if you're not assigned with the Marines or stationed at a Marine Base, how can one be considered an FMF'er!

I do believe you can be assigned to a Marine Corps base, at the BAS or hospital, (not an actual division) and still be considered an FMF'er, in the eyes of others, as in my son's case at 29 Palms. However, nobody can place the FMF letters after their name until they have earned the FMF device!

I dont' want to give the impression to new enlistee's that if they graduate FMTB they are FMF Corpsman. Afterall, who are their patients? Marines or Sailors.

I fail to see your disagreement.

i completely agree with this opinion. and just because you went to field med doesnt mean u have the tools needed to go to combat with a victor unit. as a senior line and an infantry corpsman it has been my experiance with young HM's coming out of field med have a world of learning to do before they are able to operate effectively in an infantry platoon. remember its not just medicine we have to be proficient at but we also have to proficient in our tactics as well and field med gives u an idea of we do in a batallion but by no means is it all we need to know

[YardDog]

Doc P..........Back in the Day, FMF'rs did go thru hard training at F.M.F.
We learned tactics, combat operations, we even got placed in a location (lost in other words) and told to find our way home with a Compass.

I like a choice few went thru "Combat Training" and I must agree, to be a "TRUE" (FMF) you earn the warfare pin, I worked studied and tested to oearn mine. However, others gained theirs by being deployed with a Marine Company during Desert Shield/Storm. (I thought that was wrong!)

To be a TRUE (FMF) one must not only earn the pin (by being proficient as you said) but also by EARNING the RESPECT of YOUR MARINES (and you know this by them calling you 'Doc or Devil Doc')......I agree with you, it is more than a device or test.....but the measurement of "PROFICIENCY", well there is no true test and that is what needs to happen before more countless HM's get out and become "GUN HO" and get injured (which is 1/2 of the problem to begin with).

But, I agree with you!

[MexDoc]

I believe once you go through fmtb you are FMF. I did my first 5 years FMF and my 2nd 3 years shore. These young HN's who havent been to greenside and came shore first have done 2 to 3 MAP deployments to iraq and afghanistan with division. If they werent FMF they wouldve never been pulled. being FMF greenside is hard, but being FMF on shore sucks also because you can be unaware of being deployed and receive an email that you are leaving in 2 weeks with MARDIV or ARMY. atleast on green side you know your unit is going next october, march what not. Not to downgrade anyone but I have also been FSSG and DIV. DIV is a whole different beast.. no comparison. I would call a shore duty HM that was mapped out with DIV an FMF'er way before I called someone greenside with FSSG one.

[ThomasPII]

Ok so I know I jumped in late but I have never heard an answer as to why we 8404 active duty don't ever seem to get a bonus. I mean I hear my Marines how they are re-enlisting and getting something like $80,000... yes that is an 8 with 5 zero's behind it and yes it is what they are getting. FFS I walk down the same streets, get shot at by the the same weapons, and blown up by the same IED's as these guys and if I were to re-enlist today would be a healthy pat on the back and possibly a 96 if my CO is fealing generous. So why is it that Big Navy deems these Marines worthy of some god awefull bonus but I am not? Did we Corpsman do something to offend Big Navy? I guess I'll just take my skills somewhere else when my current enlistment is up. I always assumed the grass was greener when I was on the blue side and now I see that the green side gets F'd just as much as the blue side.

[YardDog]

WOW.......first let me comment to MEXDOC......I am proud, I served, but I was FSSG.....I went on 3 deployments with DIV, and you are saying I am not (FMF).....how dare you!!!! Remember (if it was not for FSSG/SUP BN./MED LOG 'can kickers' as a HMC called us) most of DIV and MED BAT would not have known what went in those "CANS"....it was when the MED BAT HM's worked side by side with MED LOG HM's and Marines to learn about the "CANS" not to mention what medicine/IV/supplies was needed.

I mean DANG IT DUDE we all worked together to insure that the "FRONT LINE" had the material needed. FSSG and DIV are unified when it comes to field work. We both pounded the ground (at least I did with DIV) and we ate, breathed, washed (when we could), and we even took care of the USMC as if they were our brothers, we did this together and you say "DIV is a whole different beast.. no comparison. I would call a shore duty HM that was mapped out with DIV an FMF'er way before I called someone greenside with FSSG one." WOW dude, and you call yourself a fellow HM....feels more like a slap in the face to me.

Like I said above, I AM PROUD, I SERVED, I VOLUNTEERED to FIGHT and TRAVEL. I took care of the sick and injured during war time, I ran out under the cover of fire to retrieve wounded. I was injured, and I recieved the BRONZE STAR for my action, and you say that since I was FSSG, I am not a (FMF)....WOW, you have some BIG (well not to be nasty I left this out but read between the lines)....

ThomasP, I feel your pain.....I went 1stCIVDIV after 10 years....and it was spoken of in 1992, it is now 2008 and still NOTHING for HM's.....

[DocMiniMe]

i definatley feel more like a "mother" than a "brother" to my platoon. no, seriously.

kiss the owie? here's a straw...

[MexDoc]

WOW.......first let me comment to MEXDOC......I am proud, I served, but I was FSSG.....I went on 3 deployments with DIV, and you are saying I am not (FMF).....how dare you!!!! Remember (if it was not for FSSG/SUP BN./MED LOG 'can kickers' as a HMC called us) most of DIV and MED BAT would not have known what went in those "CANS"....it was when the MED BAT HM's worked side by side with MED LOG HM's and Marines to learn about the "CANS" not to mention what medicine/IV/supplies was needed.

I mean DANG IT DUDE we all worked together to insure that the "FRONT LINE" had the material needed. FSSG and DIV are unified when it comes to field work. We both pounded the ground (at least I did with DIV) and we ate, breathed, washed (when we could), and we even took care of the USMC as if they were our brothers, we did this together and you say "DIV is a whole different beast.. no comparison. I would call a shore duty HM that was mapped out with DIV an FMF'er way before I called someone greenside with FSSG one." WOW dude, and you call yourself a fellow HM....feels more like a slap in the face to me.

Like I said above, I AM PROUD, I SERVED, I VOLUNTEERED to FIGHT and TRAVEL. I took care of the sick and injured during war time, I ran out under the cover of fire to retrieve wounded. I was injured, and I recieved the BRONZE STAR for my action, and you say that since I was FSSG, I am not a (FMF)....WOW, you have some BIG (well not to be nasty I left this out but read between the lines)....

ThomasP, I feel your pain.....I went 1stCIVDIV after 10 years....and it was spoken of in 1992, it is now 2008 and still NOTHING for HM's.....

I never said you are not FMF, FSSG, DIV, MAW are all part of one team, without one the other cannot function, My point was there is a difference with someone in TQ Iraq going to salsa night every friday but is stationed greenside to a brand new shore duty HN who gets mapped out and is now dodging bullets to get to his Marine after an IED blast. They didn't make a movie about John Bradley for him beng in MEDLOG right? just because he is shore duty doesnt make him not FMF....especially if he gets augmented...just like im tired of my "higher ups" throwing in my face how many times they deployed to Bagram and TQ..then I ask them how many people did they have to kill...they just give me this dumb im sick for asking PTSD look..FSSG have deployments while Division usually have combat deployments....FSSG goes on convoys and tries to avoid contact and make it to the next place...Division is out for contact....but yes i never said you were not FMF :) woosahh! I am a Bronzestar and purple heart recipient also so I will say thank you for your service.

[DOC P]

i posted on this thread last december while i was on the 31st MEU. i got back home in January of 2009. i left back to iraq JULY OF 2009. and what kinda re-enlistment bonuse do infantry corpsman get.......... zero, squat. this is why so many of us dont re-enlist. dont get me wrong serving with my marines has been the most rewarding oportunity in my life and i would do it again...for my marines. but as for big navy...well you can guess how i feel. i get out as soon as i get back next year after 7yrs great years with marines...ooohrah

[docmatt]

I think because the rating is so overmanned.. If you want to get out there are 1000's of people that will take your place. Including myself. :)

[tact.medic]

I think because the rating is so overmanned.. If you want to get out there are 1000's of people that will take your place. Including myself. :)


Your 100% correct... I knew 2 Paramedics from my FD who wanted to come in my unit (reserves) as Docs, but the recruiter had to turn them away because our rate is overmanned- I think the recruiter said something we were like 108% reserve Docs...

Fot the record, there was a bonus for reserve program 9 Docs ($20,000) back in late '07/'08.

I know that early in the fight many Quad 0's had been sent to the fight, some even earned their FMF pin before even getting 8404 NEC!

[dvldocjoe]

its good to see you back with us Tact.medic....

[tact.medic]

its good to see you back with us Tact.medic....


Thank you, I've been super busy and haven't been online for a while. Now that I'm a 1st class selectee, I feel that I need to keep up with what the rest of the Fleet is doing so I can be a better leader for my Sailors and Marines :panda: