What was the hardest thing you did in the pipeline?
Indoc was really draining physically, and watching people I got to know really well quit was hard. Sadly it was such a huge accomplishment also. People who were way physically stronger than myself quit. Mentally the most difficult part of the pipeline after Indoc was Paramedic, it was like drinking from a fire hose, but also rewarding because medicine is the foundation of a PJ and I knew I would be learning how to make people survive otherwise unsurvivable wounds.
Has anyone applied for officer while in the pipeline as active duty?
Not that I know of. I highly doubt you would be accepted if you are in the pipeline already and then want to start down the CRO path.
My question has to do with the pipeline, and living with your family. It would be ten months of training before they get moved along with me?
It wouldn't be exactly 10 months but you will have to go through:
6wks of BMT
8 wks of SW prep
4 wks A&S
4 wks Predive
6 wks of Dive school
Then you are able to PCS to Kirtland NM where your family can move in with you. For more info about family in the pipeline/operational see my youtube video here.
Do you have to be incredibly book smart to graduate the medical portion?
You do not have to be extremely intelligent, just be dedicated and put in the time to study. It’s doable.
I’m most worried about the paramedic portion of the pipeline. Any words of wisdom or advice you might have?
Only 1% of those who get to the paramedic portion don't make it through. My advice for you is grind hard! It is six months and very doable, but it is a lot, STAY FOCUSED!
Can the schooling in the pipeline be transferred over into college credits?
Yes, you will get college credits through the community College of the Air Force where you can attribute those credits to an associates degree in Personnel Recovery.
A friend who is in the Air Force told me it normally takes 5 years from the time a guy enlists to the time he is a functional and operational PJ. Is that true?
Nope, from the time you get to basic to the time you are operational is about 2.5 years. Which is when you get to your first unit and complete your mission qual training. There are lots of people who have deployed within months of getting to their first duty station.
During the pipeline, what opportunities do you have to see family?
During the pipeline you will be able to take leave in between schools to see family pretty much every other month until you get in to paramedic/apprentice course.
If you are married mil to mil and I start paramedic school in the pipeline, would they cut my wife new orders to come live with me or will she have to finish her tour out to come see me?
She would have to meet her time on station or deros requirements... Depending on where she is. You wouldn't get joined together immediately. I would speak with your personnel section to get a more definite answer.
What would you say was more mentally challenging Indoc or SERE?
Indoc is the most difficult in all aspects. SERE Is not really difficult it just is cold and less sleep.