Which platform has first priority for manning?

The platform that has first priority for manning is the Marine Forces. This prioritization is rooted in the operational structure and mission requirements of the U.S. military. Marine Forces are often engaged in rapid deployment scenarios and are critical in executing national defense strategies. Given their role in ground combat and expeditionary operations, ensuring sufficient medical personnel, including hospital corpsmen, is essential for combat readiness and the immediate medical care of Marines in the field.

In contrast, while Forward Deployed Preventive Medicine Units, Casualty Receiving and Treatment Ships, and Anesthesia Teams are important for specific medical roles, they support broader operations and can have a more flexible deployment based on the current needs of active missions. Therefore, the primary focus on manning is allocated to Marine Forces to ensure they are prepared for immediate engagement and to effectively support combat operations.