Hampton Roads Naval Museum

Corpsman Up!

Hospital corpsmen served with Navy personnel in hospitals, on ships, on bases, and attached to Marine units. They provided routine medical care for cases of tropical ulcers known as “jungle rot” and heat exhaustion. Armed with a medical kit (and often a weapon) while on patrol with rifle companies, the “Docs” treated combat wounds caused by small arms, explosives, and booby traps. Acting quickly under fire, they worked to stop bleeding, keep airways open, dress wounds, and prevent shock. Aided by helicopter evacuations, corpsmen saved countless lives during the war.