Whats the life expectancy of a combat medic?

Answer 1

The lifespan of a comat medic is difficult to measure because medics are set apart in many ways. In WWII medics in Europe were expected to die of indirect fire (mortars, rockets, etc.) because both Allied and Nazi soldiers had a sort of unwritten code of conduct not to target these soldiers on the battlefield. When you watch the War Movies you may see medics in the middle of a firefight exposed to enemy fire but apparently untouchable, this is not an exageration. On the flip side, WWII medics in the Pacific theater were targeted above officers by Japanese troops because of their effect both on the battlefield and on morale. For this reason the white cross and red background were eventually removed from soldiers and marines in the Pacific theater. The lessons of the Pacific theater were applied in the Vietnam War as medics were often the first targets in a firefight (if seen). Most units try to keep the medic to the rear so 'Doc' can save casualties rather than become one. In Iraq and Afghanistan, medics serve in multiple roles, but are often shielded from harm by experienced units so they may save the lives of wounded soldiers. Medics are prohibited by the Geneva convention from doing many of the things their infantry brothers are expected to do in combat because medics are considered non-combatants. This terminology is not respected by most enemies. Even non-combatants, however, are allowed to defend themselves from enemy fire. The life expectancy of a soldier fighting in Iraq, wether medic or infantry, is measured in terms of years, however, because of the low number of deaths in Iraq (3,000 + in a 5 year war is unheard of in modern warfare).

Answer 2

The length of the battle. If the medic is doing his job, he's moving from casualty to casualty...all the while exposing himself to enemy fire. While the grunts are ducking for cover, the medics crawling from wounded man to wounded man (or dead man to dead man, to varify his status).

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Medics are no longer trained to expose themselves during combat. The reason behind this is the medic is an extremely vital part of any mission. We will usually send out a litter bearer team to collect and retrieve any casualties and bring the casualty to us in a secure location.

Answer 3

Retaking the city of Hue in '68...one day. Patrolling in Con Thien (US Army terms were A4 and C2 for those firebases); two or three patrols.