1 War Office,
London, S.W. 7 th November, 1915. Sir, An impression appears to have obtained credence
among medical students in their 4th and 5th years that it
is unnecessary for them to undergo any military training
while engaged in the study of their profession. This
view has doubtless arisen because, owing to the great
demand for medical men and the shortage of supply, many
who have received no military training have been given
commissions in the Royal Army Medical Corps. From the experience of the past it has been
clearly shown that men who have had previous military
training are of infinitely greater value as Officers of
the Royal Army Medical Corps than those who have had no
military experience. Students in their 4th and 5th years have been
advised that it is best for them to continue their
medical studies in order to qualify for commissions in the
Royal Army Medical Corps but this does not in the least
exempt 'them from using all the means available for
obtaining military instruction. The Medical Units of the various Officers
Training Corps are organised so that men may obtain this
instruction without disturbance of their medical studies
and The President,
Royal College of Physicians of Ireland. 2 and all senior students, who have not already done so,
are strongly encouraged to become cadets in the Medical Units of
their University Officers Training Corps. I am,
Sir,
Your obedient Servant, Mmm Russell
Surgeon General
for Director General,
Army Medical Service. MacG
12.X1.15