I am currently a 68W combat medic in the Army Reserves. When I go Navy, does my training transfer over or do I still need to attend A school?

Navy medics can specialize in a variety of medical skills from diving, aviation and clinical to Special Operations. Navy Corpsmen can serve aboard ships, clinics, and also go into the Marine Corps as a unit medic or as Spec Ops medic.

The Special Amphibious RECON Corpsman (SARC) attends the Special Operations Combat Medic (SARC) course which is the “short course” of the 18D training — 22 weeks. Later in their careers, many SARC and SEAL and SWCC medics will attend the second half of the 18D training.

Just as a SEAL would be sniper trained or communications trained, SEALs will also get extra training to become a medic. However, when a unit does not have a combat medic, an 18D from Army Special Forces or Air Force PJs will be added to the group and perform mission essential tasks as the unit’s medic when needed.

Speak with your Navy recruiter regarding all of your enlistment matters. They will know best. I'm saying this as a current Army recruiter. Do them a favor and take your questions to them and allow them to help you through your process.

As a regular Corpsman you probably can. I did it, but it was over 20 years ago. But if you want to serve as a Fleet Marine Force Corpsman, (aka field medic) you'll probably have to go to the FMF course. I was granted an exception back in the late 90's because I had gotten the EFMB as a medic, and the Combat Medic Badge in Desert Storm. Your best bet is talking with a recruiter and see what hoops you might have to jump through.