US Navy Corpsmen: Roles and History! The United States Navy Corpsmen are a vital component of the Navy’s medical team. They are responsible for providing medical care to sailors and Marines, both on land and at sea. The term “Corpsman” comes from the word “corps,” which means “body of men organized for a specific purpose.” The US Navy Corpsmen are organized into two groups: the “Blue Side” and the “Green Side.”
The Blue Side Corpsmen
The Blue Side Corpsmen are assigned to Navy ships, shore-based medical facilities, and administrative positions. They work in clinics and hospitals, providing medical care to sailors, their families, and retirees. They are responsible for ensuring the health and wellness of the Navy’s personnel, including physical exams, vaccinations, and routine medical care.
The Green Side Corpsmen
The Green Side Corpsmen are assigned to Marine units and are often deployed with them on combat missions. They work closely with Marines to provide medical care in the field, including emergency care, trauma care, and preventative medicine. They are responsible for the health and wellness of the Marines they serve, as well as other members of the Joint Forces.
Roles and Responsibilities
Both Blue Side and Green Side Corpsmen are responsible for providing medical care to their assigned personnel. However, their roles and responsibilities differ significantly.
Blue Side Corpsmen
Blue Side Corpsmen are responsible for providing medical care to Navy personnel. They work in hospitals, clinics, and administrative positions, providing routine medical care, physical exams, and vaccinations. They also provide medical support during training exercises and deployments. Some of the responsibilities of Blue Side Corpsmen include:
- Providing routine medical care to Navy personnel
- Administering vaccinations and performing physical exams
- Providing medical support during training exercises and deployments
- Conducting medical research and development
- Participating in disaster relief efforts
Green Side Corpsmen
Green Side Corpsmen are responsible for providing medical care to Marine units. They work in the field, providing emergency medical care, trauma care, and preventative medicine. They are responsible for the health and wellness of the Marines they serve, as well as other members of the Joint Forces. Some of the responsibilities of Green Side Corpsmen include:
- Providing emergency medical care and trauma care in combat situations
- Providing preventative medicine to prevent illness and injury
- Conducting medical research and development
- Participating in disaster relief efforts
Stations and Commands
Blue Side Corpsmen are stationed at Navy bases and hospitals around the world. They work in clinics, hospitals, and administrative positions, providing medical care to sailors, their families, and retirees. Some of the Navy commands where Blue Side Corpsmen are stationed include:
- Naval Medical Center San Diego
- Naval Hospital Pensacola
- Naval Medical Center Portsmouth
- Naval Hospital Camp Lejeune
Green Side Corpsmen are stationed with Marine units and are often deployed with them on combat missions. They work closely with Marines to provide medical care in the field. Some of the Marine commands where Green Side Corpsmen are stationed include:
- 1st Marine Division
- 2nd Marine Division
- 3rd Marine Division
- Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF)
History
The US Navy Corpsmen have a long and proud history. They have served in every conflict since the Civil War, providing medical care to Navy and Marine personnel. Corpsmen have earned numerous medals and commendations for their bravery and dedication to duty.
During World War II, Corpsmen served with Marine units in the Pacific Theater. They were often the first medical personnel to reach wounded Marines, and their bravery under fire earned them the nickname “Angels of Mercy.”
In Korea, Corpsmen continued to serve with Marine units, providing medical care in some of the most challenging conditions imaginable. During the Korean War, Corpsmen earned numerous medals, including the Medal of Honor, for their heroism on the battlefield.
In Vietnam, Corpsmen served with both Navy and Marine units, providing medical care in some of the most dangerous and difficult situations imaginable. They were often under fire, and their bravery and dedication saved countless lives.
Today, the US Navy Corpsmen continue to play a vital role in the Navy’s medical team. Blue Side and Green Side Corpsmen work together to provide medical care to Navy and Marine personnel around the world. They are highly trained professionals who are dedicated to the health and wellness of the men and women they serve.
In conclusion, the US Navy Corpsmen are a critical component of the Navy’s medical team. The Blue Side and Green Side Corpsmen play different but equally important roles in providing medical care to Navy and Marine personnel. Their bravery, dedication, and professionalism are a testament to the proud history of the US Navy Corpsmen.
For more information about US Navy Corpsmen: Roles, Responsibilities, and History please contact us at hq@navycrow.com.
