What military jobs are all about saving lives? I'm interested in roles that involve medical or rescue operations. What kind of education or background would I need for these positions?
Several military careers focus primarily on preserving and saving lives. Here are a few roles you might want to consider:
1. Combat Medic: Combat medics, also known as 68W Health Care Specialists in the U.S. Army, are responsible for providing emergency medical treatment at the point of injury on the battlefield. Training usually requires a high school diploma and 16 weeks of Advanced Individual Training, including practice in healthcare.
2. Military Doctor or Nurse: Military physicians and nurses provide healthcare to servicemen and women and their families. To become a military doctor, you'll need to go to medical school, just like a civilian doctor, and then complete a military-specific residency. Nurses will need to complete a nursing program and then attend a military-specific nursing program.
3. Search and Rescue Swimmer: In the U.S. Navy, these individuals rescue people from dangerous or hostile situations. They need to complete Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL(BUD/S) training or a Rescue Swimmer School.
4. Pararescue (PJ): In the U.S. Air Force, these individuals are tasked with recovery and medical treatment of personnel in humanitarian and combat environments. They undergo extensive training in emergency medical care, parachuting, scuba diving, and other skills.
5. Medical Service Corps Officers: These individuals lead healthcare teams in treating military personnel and their families. They would need a degree relating to healthcare or hospital administration, healthcare sciences, public health, or similar fields.
Remember, education and backgrounds will vary depending on the specific branch and role you're interested in. You'll often need qualifications similar to those for civilian careers in healthcare, plus additional military training. It's recommended to reach out to a recruiter from the military branch you're interested in to get the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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