I'm an active HM2. I've spent 5 out of 6.5 years with the Marines and I think it's about time I go to a ship. My HM1 mentioned LCCs but he's never been stationed on one so I'm asking here if anyone has been stationed on an LCC specifically the Blue Ridge.

If so, please answer the following questions:
1)What's it like on the ship (for Corpsmen)?
2)How often and how long are the deployments?
3)Will I be able to be SW/AW qual'd?
4)Will I have the opportunity to live off the ship?
5)How long are the billet tours (for single Sailors)?

I spent a tour on the USS Blue Ridge LCC-19, in the early 80's. For me, it was great! I did some of the typical stupid-youth things, but never got into any major trouble (which was very easy to do, on a flagship).

1) Duty varied as to where/when you were (geographically). As an e-%, you'll be a senior duty stander, in medical spaces. Normally, boring in port, but it can have its busy times.

2)As a flagship, you normally don't spend a ton of time at sea. Deployments can last 3-5 months, but you frog-hop from port to poort. Diplomatic missions, and all that......

3)SW/AW qual? Not likely. The only assigned aircraft is the Admiral's bird, and playing with that is a rae thing. SW has been done, but not normally by certain ratings.

4)As an E-5, you will be allowed to request shoer-side quarters. Floats are a pain, and, so is the value of the dollar! Be prepared.

5) Unaccompanied tours were 2 years, when I was there. If you were close to re-enlistment, they did thier best to re-enlist you, and "award" you with an additional year.

Any other questions, msg my profile!!