I think this guy should have been declined from enlisting. He had to have had some sort of psychological issue. No one in their right mind would turn down a job that would allow them to do more for their country only to do less. He would seriously have been better off serving as an EP. 18-D's do not do surgery, or any other form of non Echelon -I care. As an EP he would have been entirely more valuable. It does not take anything close to a physician to do the 18-D job, but it does take someone with dedication and motivation.
As for the medicine in the service DK and Ninja, the medical side of all 3 services that actively utilize medical services professionals, is the most laxed portion of the military. It is entirely up to the individual medic, nurse, technician, and physician as to what they get from the military. And FYI, undoubtedly the BEST treated medical people are the Air Force medical teams. They have the best facilities, are furthest from danger, and routinely have hot meals and television. But I can see where NCO status in the Chair Force would not be ideal, as even the brass there don't get much special treatment until the LTC rank. Air Force is too much UNLIKE a real military experience that if you really want to feel like you are making a difference as a physician, I would recommend Navy 1st, Army close 2nd.