Navy vs Air Force

[sebioac]

I talked to recruiters from the Army, Air Force, and the Navy. I know that I don't want to join the Army, but I am very torn between the other two. I was told by the Navy recruiter that nurses don't generally spend time on the ship. Is this true? I'm interested in being stationed outside the U.S. Both branches sound similar, so I'd like to hear from those who have experience in either the Navy or AF. Thanks!

[USNRN309]

I am going Navy nursing because my fiance is a Navy submariner and will be stationed in the united states somewhere so I want to have more of a chance to be with him QUOTE]

Marriage and dual active duty: co-location.

I'm not sure of the exact nuts and bolts, since I'm single, but dual active duty members are typically co-located, which means you are both stationed within 50 miles of each other. Your respective detailers (the person who cuts your orders) should work with you to have you stationed with your husband. Once you are married, and there may be a time requirement (I think it's a year, but again, I'm single, so I'm not positive) you can request co-location. Double check with your recruiter about specifics.

[wtc1976]

As a prior Navy Corpsman. Navy Nurses have very few seagoing billets. 1 per aircraft carrier and many on two hospital ships. Also now less and less overseas assignments with base closures. You are better off with Air force for overseas part. I will say working with both Navy and Air Force Nurses, both have the same experiences to help post service. That is due to the Corpsman and Med Techs. I was last stationed at Scott AFB, AF independent med-techs and Navy Corpsman are equivalent to Physician assistants (hence the creation of that job by Duke University in '70's). I personally looking at going back Navy soon with my dual B.S in Health Care Management / Nursing and that is because of my prior services achievements will transfer over to officer and will help me a little over those with no prior service.