Getting stationed aboard a Navy ship?

Question

Hello everybody. I was originally going to enlist in the Army as a 68W - Medic. But my parents didn't like the idea of me going to Iraq and I wanted to travel as much as possible so I figured becoming a Hospital Corpsman in the Navy would be a better option. I have other friends in the Navy that got stationed on ships and have seen most of the world. That is something I would really love.

I understand that it is the military and they will put me wherever they want. But I would like it a lot better if out of A school I got put on a ship instead of a stateside hospital. Any former Sailors or HM's have any info for me?

Answer 1

as a Quad Zero first term HM: slim to none.   you will be stationed at a hospital facility.  Only IDCs are aboard ships..and you can't be one of them until your second or third enlistment.  

and as an HM..you will go to Iraq just about as easily as if you were in the Army.  

Answer 2

If you fit the billet requirements, you will go from boot camp to Corpsman school in Great Lakes Ill. After Corpsman school, you will be sent to either the fleet or a hospital. Remember, you must finish school, otherwise you'll be sent to the fleet as an undesignated seaman and wind up in the Deck department. Do well, serve with honor!

Answer 3

When you are in your class A school you will be required to submit an enlisted duty preference sheet (dream sheet) it asked for 3 types of duty and 3 locations and which is more important. Type duty ot location ? Just put down 2 differ ant ship types. Best chances for a corpsman to get sea duty is by requesting a CV or CG. There are also 2 hospital ships that have many corpsmen assigned. Another option would be to put in for overseas duty.

Yes they can put you where needed, but they really do try these days to take into account your preferences. Trust me, most corpsmen don't want sea duty and that's already in your favor.