Do infantrymen suffer from physical and mental health issues more than other military specialties?

2017-10-05T09:07:14-04:00

Response by SGT Dave Tracy made Oct 5 at 2017 9:31 AM

2017-10-05T09:31:51-04:00

From anecdotal evidence (take that for what it's worth), I'd be inclined to believe it.

Response by Sgt Martin Querin made Oct 5 at 2017 12:12 PM

2017-10-05T12:12:45-04:00

I would broaden the statement to say all direct soldier combatants; there are classifications that do not fall under "infantry" per se, but they are direct combatants for example Corpsmen, FO's etc. And physical, highly likely. Mental...well you had to be halfway there to be 03. I walked into the recruiters office, ASVAB Cat 1, and asked to sign as contract 0331; he almost got out of his chair and hugged me. I did get an Oorah! out of him. LOL

Response by Maj John Bell made Oct 6 at 2017 12:24 AM

2017-10-06T00:24:52-04:00

I am not disabled. But I do hear voices, they speak in series of pops and clicks that come from my ankles, knees, hips and lower back. The direct translation is "We told you so... Dumbass."

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 6 at 2017 1:31 PM

2017-10-06T13:31:43-04:00

No not necessarily. Its based on how strong an individual is mentally and physically. You could be a cook on a random foot patrol (id be surprised if that ever happened), get fired at and that could scar you for life.

Response by LCpl Chris Catich made Oct 6 at 2017 5:10 PM

2017-10-06T17:10:24-04:00

I think so. Mainly because infantrymen are on the front lines where as tankers, tracs and air support aren't in as close of a proximity to the enemy.

Response by Cpl Justin Goolsby made Oct 6 at 2017 6:02 PM

2017-10-06T18:02:32-04:00

I would honestly believe so. I mean sending rounds down range is a hell of a good time. But it's a completely different story when the rounds are coming back at you. I know every MOS has it's share of mishaps, but when you're infantry, I think the likelihood of an incident is increased... at least when you're forward deployed.

Response by Cpl Michael Wondoloski made Oct 7 at 2017 9:01 AM

2017-10-07T09:01:43-04:00

umm, yeah..

Response by SPC Erich Guenther made Sep 5 at 2018 10:36 PM

2018-09-05T22:36:10-04:00

I would say yes on the physical ailments but probably not on the mental health issues. Someone should do a study, I am surprised by how many former Infantryman over 50 or 60 have issues with severe arthritis after just one Enlistment in their youth. Though I guess it happens with old football injuries as well so I shouldn't be surprised.

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 5 at 2018 11:29 AM

2018-10-05T11:29:12-04:00

Nah man, bulk fuelers and water dogs have em beat