Advice Please

[Solidis]

Hi guys,

I'm shipping out for the Navy as a Corpsman in Reserves in 2 months. I decided to go in as a Navy Corpsman, because my father was a Marine for 20 years, and in my opinion to quote Churchill: "there is smarter, handier, or more adaptable body of troops in the world." I've chosen to serve with, in my opinion, the best. I choose to serve as their "Doc," because I think that I can and will serve best in that way.

But, the reason for my writting this, is to ask for any advice or input that you gentlemen may have in reference to my shipping. My current ship date is May 30, 2006. I will be going through boot, HM school, and FMF. I'm currently considering potentially going active duty. I simply dont see why I should learn to fight to save lives, only to never be able to apply that ability to reality.

Any input would be great.

Thanx,

Solidis

[Paramedic8404]

Well brother I don't quite get what you are saying, maybe this will help you. To be an FMF "doc" is a term of respect,it isn't about learning to fight as you say but it is about learning to survive in any type of situation you and your Marines may be faced with. A Marine is taught how to kill and do all the other"ugly" things that others don't want to do. You are side by side with them...your training teaches you to move as one with them, how to notice things that may not be noticed,hear things that may not be heard. You are taught to treat the worst wounds ever seen, to save your brothers life. In becoming a "Doc" it is one of the highest honors anyone can have bestowed upon them...It isn't given it is earned. In my time with the grunts I did alot to earn my title and the respect of "MY" guys. Please remember this as you go off to defend the rights of not only your country but others as well......Do the best job you can and your men will do anything for you. You eat,sleep,train,sweat and bleed with these men so treat them just as a brother and you will get it back 10 fold. I hope this may have shined some light on you and gave you a basis for your deployment. I have become a Paramedic in an inner city/urban area and my training has helped me get through some hairy situations,take it from me it will help you someday. Good luck



Fair winds and following sea

HM3(FMF) Rob Jones

Indianapolis,IN

[crazycajun]

Solidis,

Hey brother, let me tell you! Since I've been a HM for almost 20 years. I've served on board two different ships, two shore commands, and have been FMF for the past 9 years from beating the bushes with 2nd Bn 6th Mar, while in Division, being stationed at II MEF and now swinging with the wing over in Cherry Point. The one thing I've learned most of all, the FMF is the place to be. Yes, the work is harder at times and the places you may sleep sometimes sucks. The Marines treat you like their brothers and protect you just the same! Plus, as you climb in the ranks you'll get treated better than you do on the Navy side the house. Life is good on the Green Side!

Being a weekend warrior isn't bad either, I did that for my first two years in the service, though I decided to go Active because I really wanted to see the world! And I have! Some places I truely enjoyed and others are what you make of them.

Good Luck,

Semper Fi,

crazycajun

[Solidis]

Thanx for the quick responces guys. My question was really, do you have any input on things that I should do to staybecome better prepared prior to shipping out for boot camp?

[crazycajun]

Brother,

You need to be able to do physical training. Running is a must, espically if you are heading to the FMSS. You need to be able to run at least three miles. Also for FMSS you'll need to do pull-ups the more the better, though 20 is the max. Sit-ups and push-ups are required for the Navy Physical Fitness Assessment. Prepare mentally to hear somewhat harsh butt chewings from time to time. It's all good, just keep your head up when you want to hang it down.

Semper Fi,

crazycajun

[Doc Chi]

I simply dont see why I should learn to fight to save lives, only to never be able to apply that ability to reality.


Bro when "The shit hits the fan" your another trigger puller out there till someone goes down. The Marines will do what ever they need to, to protect there "Doc" which also applies in non combat situations to :D. But trust me you need that training it will help you 10 fold out there. There has been quite a few times I fired my rifle or pistol to protect a patient and myself.

The more skills you have the more valuble you are to your Marines you will gain greater trust with them. The bond with a Marine and his Doc is one that can not be broken. But there trust and respect is earned not given.