Why must a Corpsman be adept in both leadership and follower skills?

A Corpsman must be adept in both leadership and follower skills because adaptability in different roles during emergencies is crucial for effective medical response. Emergencies often present unpredictable situations where the Corpsman might need to take charge, make quick decisions, and lead a team in providing care. Conversely, there will be times when the Corpsman must follow directions or support others, particularly in a multi-disciplinary team environment where clear chain-of-command and collaboration are vital.

Being skilled in both areas ensures that a Corpsman can seamlessly transition between leading a response, coordinating with other medical personnel, and taking instructions when required. This dual capability enhances the overall effectiveness of the medical response team, allowing them to adapt quickly to the demands of various scenarios they may encounter in the field.