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navigation  The Caduceus: Symbol of the United States Navy
Hospital Corps  The caduceus is worn by those who, because of
their education and training, are driven by a desire to help
others, to save lives, to reduce the effects of illness and
injury in others.  It is an ancient symbol, but in the last two
centuries it has taken on an exclusively medical connotation. 
United States Navy Hospital Corpsmen, who proudly wear the
caduceus, as a symbol of their rating, or specialty, in
conjunction with the symbols denoting their rank, work in a
variety of capacities and locations.  They serve in shore
assignments, such as naval hospitals and clinics, aboard ships,
where they are frequently the only medical care provider, or in
the battlefield while serving with various Marine Corps units. 
The common form of address for a Hospital Corpsman is "Doc".  
In the U.S. Marine Corps this term is generally used as a sign
of respect.  I was privileged to serv