I'm a mom. My son has prior service with AF. He re-enlisted in Army - Hoping to make a long term career as a Special Forces Medic. Just got married. He is currently in school, but between duties,school,pt, and studying - he's totally exhausted. I'm concerned for his mental health and well being. It may be affecting his ability to perform in school.
It looks like he is choosing the Ranger route. Will this take him to a lasting career that he can advance in the medic area? He does not have a degree. Are there any programs available -he should look at to further himself within the Army beside Ranger? I think he is driven by wanting to be in special forces.

I honor the military and am proud of his duty, loyalty and commitment. Yes, he is a grown man -- But I'm really concerned about his career path, lack of sleep and future. Any direction for my thoughts would be helpful.

Lack of sleep, unfortunately, goes hand-in-hand with most Army training, regardless of what the training is for. As you've no doubt figured out, being in the Army is not 9-5, Mon-Fri - even in peacetime, which this definitely is not.

Fortunately, the Army has done considerable research on sleep-deprivation, and does take measures to ameliorate its effects (non-pharmaceutical, I might add). Whenever possible, down time when REALLY on the job, is just that: down time. Bad guys don't always cooperate, and missions can go on for days with little rest, or sleep can get interrupted by somebody lobbing hostile fire in your direction.

People adapt. Your son will learn new rhythms, new ways of snatching some restorative rest/sleep in unlikely places and times (like on the toilet).

After time as a medic, your son can apply for PA school through the Army, though he may have to take pre-requisite courses on his own time. That's really the only "upward mobility" for medics, unless they get into the "Green to Gold" program that can lead to a nursing degree and commission, or get out altogether to attend medical school - provided he already has a college degree and gets accepted into a med school.

Others may have some additional thoughts ...

Thanks! It's amazing what a few words of direction and encouragement can do. I'll try not to worry so much. I hope he keeps his eye on the future -- in case the Army isn't the final career.