Corpsman Questions
 

Are HMs really the most decorated Navy rating? I read that somewhere and it would sort of make sense since there are more of them than SEALS and they are one of the only (technically) combat ratings.

What is advancement like for one attached to a FMF?

Is getting to C School the same process as picking your first duty station? Based on the needs of the Navy (whatever is available) after A school as well as class rank?

Most Corpsman don't go FMF but it's a huge rate so there are a lot of people. Advancement is the same for all HM's no matter what field they are in. HM has pretty bad advancement even right now when advancment is good for most rates.

Ouch, so advancement to E-4 while in A or C school is a bit out of the question?

Unless Corpsman has an auto advance thing say if you are first in the class. I don't know if they do that though.

To take the test you have to be eligible so if you are an E3 by the time you graduate A school you have to wait 6 months to take the test.

I gotcha. I'm going in as an E-3 does that mean I still have to wait the 6 months?

Yes so 6 months after A school you'll be able to take it.

My friends daughter has been in now for almost a year..she took the test for E4, passed the test, but didnt promote...many others ahead of her had more "points" and time in..just understand, just because you pass the test does NOT mean you get the promotion.... there are MANY other factors that come into play on getting promoted.

That makes sense. It would be pretty silly to advance someone who simply tests well and the US Navy would not be the power that it is. I was more leaning toward what I could do while in A school to boost my chances of promotion. A friend said volunteering often helps.

Actually testing well is how most people advance in the Navy especially in rates that don't advance well at all. I've seen really crappy sailors get average evals but advance because they test well and do well on advancement exams. This can make up for lack of points easily.

As far as doing volunteer work to gain points, it has to be approved by your command on the type of volunteer work and it takes MANY MANY hours to get the pin for it to count towards points. As far as getting points in A school, you need to be the very top of your class.

Does anyone know what corpsman specialties are eligible for security clearances?

Anyone? Or can you direct me to a list?