From Navy Corpsman to MARSOC 3 | Eric Gilmet
In this gripping episode of the Stories of Service Podcast, host Theresa Carpenter examines a case that exposes cracks in the foundation of military justice. Eric Gilmet, a decorated Navy corpsman with 21 years of honorable service, found his career—and life—derailed by a four-year legal battle that began on a New Year’s Eve in Iraq.
A late-night altercation in Erbil left a civilian contractor unconscious. Acting on his medic’s instincts, Gilmet stayed with the man overnight, performing neurological checks and positioning him to keep his airway clear. Tragically, the contractor stopped breathing the next morning and later died.
Rather than treating the event as the accident confirmed by autopsy evidence, military authorities charged Gilmet and two Marine Raiders with homicide. What followed was a harrowing legal ordeal: a senior JAG officer’s threatening comments created a conflict of interest, COVID delays stretched proceedings to four years, and Gilmet was left unable to practice medicine or progress in his career.
Ultimately, the military’s highest court dismissed all charges, recognizing the due process violations. But the victory came at a heavy personal cost—financially, emotionally, and professionally.
GUEST BIO: WHO IS ERIC GILMET?
Eric Gilmet is a retired Navy corpsman who deployed multiple times with Marine infantry and special operations forces. Known for his dedication to saving lives in combat zones, he now lives in Michigan, pursuing a master’s degree and speaking publicly about the need for military justice reform. His story underscores how quickly lives can change and the courage it takes to stand firm when the system itself is flawed.
A Fight for Fairness
The case became about more than one night in Iraq—it became a test of fundamental fairness in military courts. In the end, the military’s highest court dismissed all charges, acknowledging the due process violations that tainted the proceedings.
Life After the Verdict
Now retired in Michigan, Gilmette is pursuing his master’s degree and advocating for reforms to military justice. His journey is both a warning and an inspiration: a reminder of how quickly lives can change, and of the courage it takes to stand firm when the institution you’ve served threatens to undo your life’s work.
🔑 Key Takeaways:
Even Decorated Careers Aren’t Immune – Military justice can fail those it is meant to protect.
Due Process Matters – When conflicts of interest or improper conduct surface, fairness can be compromised.
The Human Cost Is High – Years of uncertainty can devastate careers, families, and mental health.
Courage Beyond the Battlefield – Gilmet’s resilience shows strength isn’t only about combat—it’s about facing injustice head-on.
Change Requires Voices Like His – By speaking out, Gilmet is helping push for reforms that protect future service members.
WATCH FULL EPISODE HERE
The Stories of Service Podcast has never shied away from hard truths, and this episode is no exception. Eric Gilmet’s journey reminds us that injustice within the system cannot be ignored. By sharing his story and advocating for reform, he’s giving voice to the silent struggle many service members face.
More on the case - https://www.uap.org/post/task-purpose...
