Rarest military jobs you’ve never heard of
By Bethaney Phillips
Posted On Jul 17, 2024 7:35 AM PDT
When it comes to the U.S. military, most of us know to never be surprised at what you might find, even if it’s a decade after an event took place. However, that doesn’t mean events are any less interesting to learn about … or jobs that are no longer in existence. From pigeon couriers to ice tunnel planners to titles so strange you would only think to see them in the movies, these were real positions created by the American government. Even though some no longer exist today, it’s an interesting look at how they came to be and how they molded departments into what they are today.
Take a look at these rare, often unheard-of military gigs.
1. Combat Weathermen
Army soldiers prepare to release a weather balloon while out in the field. Image via DoD.
Imagine a weatherman, but if he were at war. If you think about it, weather conditions are an important part of carrying out military missions. And you can’t just rely on the local news to give you the stats, especially if you’re in a remote location. Thus, the need for the Combat Weatherman. This job is usually aligned with Special Forces. The Weatherman carries tech that allows them to set up and pinpoint key weather factors. Their data is then passed on so others can plan out assignments like attacks, air and fire support, and other military operations.
2. Instrument Repair Technician
Billy Turner, a musical instrument repair technician with the Musical Instrument Repair Facility (MIRF) inspects a french horn after repairing dents to the instrument on Sembach Kaserne, Germany, Oct. 18, 2019. The music education program is made available to thousands of children with the help from the MIRF. Instruments are made ready for use by children of service members, free of charge, as part of the school system music programs. (US Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Evan Parker)
The military is known for its impressive bands, which are present at graduation ceremonies, retirements, and more. But when something goes wrong with those important instruments, someone has to fix them. Enter the Instrument Repair Technician. These highly skilled soldiers are able to fix a number of issues with brass, string, and woodwind instruments. Thankfully, it’s up to them to keep the music alive and sounding like it should.
https://www.wearethemighty.com/military-life/the-rarest-military-jobs/
