 The U.S. military medical community is made up of more than 120,000 service members. The majority of them had their medical training paid for completely by the military. They work in dozens of medical specialties, in top-rate facilities around the world, treating a unique, diverse patient population. The Military Health Care Network is one of the largest in the world and operates based solely on the needs of patients, not financial considerations. Military medical practices and research have contributed significantly to the development of civilian health care. Life-saving opportunities abound, with the opportunity to work in trauma care, disaster relief, and humanitarian operations. Most importantly, the work of members of the military medical community preserve the nation's fighting strength and serves those who serve.