the week is over for me today, on thursday 10 november 2005. my selection is just short of the last evolution, but i am taken out. after the interview, i was informed i could pack my stuff, shake hands, wish the rest well, and leave.
the armed forces do not need a medical officer that is a combatant as well. a combatant can only be medic-trained, and not at a higher level (doctor and above). that is the stand, and i have to accept it.
the boss said he would very much like a doctor in his force, but the higher echelons of command do not allow that. i do not understand why. for US/UK/other international special forces, their medics are so well trained they go operate, do things that doctors can do. they have doctors in their team to render any medical aid when necessary. of cos, first a SOF trooper, then a medic/doctor.
but looking back, it was hell of a experience. the first 2 weeks of preparation were tough, keeping up and all. the toll on the physical body was there, but nothing compared to the last week. in the final week, every evolution, you are being evaluated. you don't make the mark, you're out. from the intial 14, by the end of the 3rd day, only 7 are left. i was one of them.
i regret that i cannot reveal exactly what we do in each of evolutions, but it sure drains ur physical energy within the first 2 days. after which, no matter how prepared you came, how fit you were, you have to depend on your mental strength. we relied on each other's encouragement, and carried on.
most of all, a few of us, looked to the One above, who sustains us.
