Water Survival Training

Images of military personnel engaged in water survival training sessions. Scenes depict individuals in water, practicing skills for special operations and emergency situations.

Sgt. Tyler Holloway of the 115th Field Artillery Brigade in the Wyoming Army National Guard executes one of the swim survival events at the National Best Warrior Competition held at Middle Tennessee State University in Murfreesboro, Tenn., July 25, 2022. Fourteen competitors from around the nation came together to compete July 22-29. The National Best Warrior Competition has the best of the best Soldiers in the Army National Guard.

Sgt. Tyler Holloway of the 115th Field Artillery Brigade in the Wyoming Army National Guard executes one of the swim survival events at the National Best Warrior Competition held at Middle Tennessee State University in Murfreesboro, Tenn., July 25, 2022. Fourteen competitors from around the nation came together to compete July 22-29. The National Best Warrior Competition has the best of the best Soldiers in the Army National Guard.

Navy personnel perform High Risk Water Training in preparation for selection for special operations career fields. Medical Deep Sea Diving Technician, Search and Rescue Medical Technician or Special Amphibious Reconnaissance Corpsman training held October, 24, 2022 at Joint Base San Antonio- Fort Sam Houston.

Navy personnel perform High Risk Water Training in preparation for selection for special operations career fields. Medical Deep Sea Diving Technician, Search and Rescue Medical Technician or Special Amphibious Reconnaissance Corpsman training held October, 27, 2022 at Joint Base San Antonio- Fort Sam Houston.

U.S. Army Soldiers compete for the German Armed Forces Proficiency Badge at Camp Shelby Joint Forces Training Center, Mississippi, July 30, 2022.

Illinois Army National Guard Soldiers assigned to Company B, 1st Battalion, 106th Aviation Regiment conduct Combat Water Survival Training May 22, 2022 at Olivet Nazarene University in Bourbonnais, IL. This training allows for a simulated environment, meant to assist Soldiers in developing survival skills to help prepare for situations such as helicopter crashes near large masses of water. Its good to have these experiences with one another, said 1st Lt. Jonathan Mercado. Being able to conduct this training successfully is going to identify who may need additional support and ensure success for follow on missions.

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Michael Brantley, Special Tactics Training Squadron student, watches as classmates are evaluated during water confidence training, Hurlburt Field, Fla., Sept. 30, 2011. Water confidence training provides STTS Airmen with essential water survival skills.

220615-N-ZW825-0361 GREAT LAKES, Ill. (June 15, 2022) NROTC New Student Indoctrination (NSI) Cycle 1 midshipman candidates participate in their second class swim qualification at Recruit Training Command (RTC), June 15. Upon completion of NSI, the candidates will start their freshman year of the NROTC program at colleges and universities nationwide this fall. NSI is an indoctrination program hosted at RTC, and provides midshipmen with a common military training orientation. NSI provides basic training in five warfighting fundamentals - firefighting, damage control, seamanship, watchstanding and small arms handling and marksmanship - to begin creating basically trained and smartly disciplined future Navy and Marine Corps officers. NROTC is overseen by Commander, Naval Service Training Command (NSTC), Rear Adm. Jennifer S. Couture, which supports naval accessions training for 98 percent of the Navys new officers and enlisted Sailors.

Soldiers conduct the Army Water Survival Assessment at the Lt. Gen. Thomas S. Vandal Training Complex on Camp Humphreys, South Korea, May 7, 2022 as part of the 2022 Eighth Army Best Warrior and Best Squad Competition. Competitors performed various tasks during the assessment and were judged on basic survival swimming techniques.

Soldiers conduct the Army Water Survival Assessment at the Lt. Gen. Thomas S. Vandal Training Complex on Camp Humphreys, South Korea, May 7, 2022 as part of the 2022 Eighth Army Best Warrior and Best Squad Competition. Competitors performed various tasks during the assessment and were judged on basic survival swimming techniques.

061031-N-6439C-058. Base: Norfolk State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: ATLANTIC FLEET NAVAL SURFACE FOR

Sgt. Anthony Welby, a truck driver with 1st Squadron, 6th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, emerges from the water as 1st Lt. Luis Broady, an assistant operations officer with 1st Battalion, 35th Armored Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, assists during the Holistic Health and Fitness led swim training conducted at the Fort Bliss Aquatics Training Center Sept. 19-23, 2022. Jeff Utsch, a tactical swim instructor, was brought in to train 29 Soldiers on the proper techniques of swimming and how it can be used to enhance overall Soldier health and performance.

Sgt. Anthony Welby, a truck driver with 1st Squadron, 6th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, emerges from the water as 1st Lt. Luis Broady, an assistant operations officer with 1st Battalion, 35th Armored Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, assists during the Holistic Health and Fitness led swim training conducted at the Fort Bliss Aquatics Training Center Sept. 19-23, 2022. Jeff Utsch, a tactical swim instructor, was brought in to train 29 Soldiers on the proper techniques of swimming and how it can be used to enhance overall Soldier health and performance.

Illinois Army National Guard Soldiers assigned to Company B, 1st Battalion, 106th Aviation Regiment conduct Combat Water Survival Training May 22, 2022 at Olivet Nazarene University in Bourbonnais, IL. This training allows for a simulated environment, meant to assist Soldiers in developing survival skills to help prepare for situations such as helicopter crashes near large masses of water. Its good to have these experiences with one another, said 1st Lt. Jonathan Mercado. Being able to conduct this training successfully is going to identify who may need additional support and ensure success for follow on missions.

220615-N-ZW825-0439 GREAT LAKES, Ill. (June 15, 2022) NROTC New Student Indoctrination (NSI) Cycle 1 midshipman candidates participate in their second class swim qualification at Recruit Training Command (RTC), June 15. Upon completion of NSI, the candidates will start their freshman year of the NROTC program at colleges and universities nationwide this fall. NSI is an indoctrination program hosted at RTC, and provides midshipmen with a common military training orientation. NSI provides basic training in five warfighting fundamentals - firefighting, damage control, seamanship, watchstanding and small arms handling and marksmanship - to begin creating basically trained and smartly disciplined future Navy and Marine Corps officers. NROTC is overseen by Commander, Naval Service Training Command (NSTC), Rear Adm. Jennifer S. Couture, which supports naval accessions training for 98 percent of the Navys new officers and enlisted Sailors.

U.S. Marines with Marine Corps Base Quantico, swim during a physical training session during a command sponsored Corporals Course on Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, Feb. 6, 2023. Corporal's course provides the Marine Corporal with the education and leadership skills necessary to lead Marines. This Corporals Course was organized through an interagency effort by MCBQ units to include Headquarters Battalion, Training and Education Command, and Security Battalion.

Sgt. 1st Class Cory Fowler from Madigan Army Medical Center, steps off the diving board during the Combat Water Survival Test in the 2022 Medical Readiness Command, Pacific Best Medic Competition Wednesday, October 26th 2022 at Joint Base Lewis-McChord.221026-A-OZ010-2019

A Soldier from the 12th Combat Aviation Brigade resurfaces after being submerged as part of dunker training (helicopter over-water survival training) from October 18-19, Bremerhaven, Germany. The training was conducted at the RelyOn Nutec training center and is designed to teach anyone traveling on or over water, how to react before, during, and after a helicopter becomes submerged in water. 12CAB is a team of disciplined warfighting professionals trusted to execute precision aviation operations. Ensuring Soldiers successfully complete dunker training is one of the many ways the Griffin Brigade constantly improves their readiness to support missions across the European Command area of operations.

110420-N-JR159-139CORONADO, Calif. (April 20, 2011) Students from Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL (BUD/s) Class 287 participate in night gear exchange during the second phase of training at Naval Amphibious Base Coronado. During this evolution, two students will enter the water and exchange dive gear with masks that have been completely blackened. The Navy SEALs are the maritime component of U.S. Special Operations Forces and are trained to conduct a variety of operations from the sea, air and land.

130313-N-PB383-225 SAN DIEGO (March 13, 2013) A student at the Search and Rescue Swimmer School at Naval Base San Diego observes an instructor perform basic rescue techniques. The students are participating in a four-week course where instructors teach various rescue techniques and swimming exercises.

Soldiers throughout the 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division practice inflating life vests during swim confidence training at the Chatham County Aquatic Center in Savannah, Georgia, June 28th, 2022. The training ultimately prepares pilots and crew members for Shallow Water Egress Training, which builds skills in evacuating a helicopter that is submerged in water.

Staff Sgt. Keith Estes from Medical Department Activity, Camp Humphreys, South Korea, treads water with his M4 during the Combat Water Survival Test in the 2022 Medical Readiness Command, Pacific Best Medic Competition Wednesday, October 26th 2022 at Joint Base Lewis-McChord.

Navy personnel perform High Risk Water Training in preparation for selection for special operations career fields. Medical Deep Sea Diving Technician, Search and Rescue Medical Technician or Special Amphibious Reconnaissance Corpsman training held October, 27, 2022 at Joint Base San Antonio- Fort Sam Houston.

U.S. Marines with 2d Reconnaissance Battalion, 2d Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, and explosive ordnance disposal technicians with 7th Engineer Support Battalion, I Marine Expeditionary Force, wait to enter the pool prior to conducting joint combat diver training during Archipelago Endeavor 22 (AE22) at Berga Naval Base, Sweden, September 6, 2022. AE22 is an integrated field training exercise that increases operational capability and enhances strategic cooperation between the U.S. Marines and Swedish forces.

U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. , camp commandant, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, conducts Basic Swim Qualification on Camp Johnson, North Carolina, April 21, 2022. Basic Swim Qualification is designed to instill the self-confidence needed to overcome mental and physical adversity that could arise during actual combat water survival scenarios.

130313-N-TW634-126SAN DIEGO (March 13, 2013) An instructor leads students at the Search and Rescue Swimmer School at Naval Base San Diego through a training exercise. The students are participating in a four-week course where instructors teach various rescue techniques and swimming exercises.

Pennsylvania National Guard Soldiers attending the Ranger Sapper Assessment Program at Fort Indiantown Gap, Pa., complete the Combat Water Survival Assessment at Marquette Lake on Oct. 28, 2022. The RSAP is designed to assess whether the Soldiers are prepared to attend the U.S. Army's Ranger or Sapper schools and to further prepare them for the schools. (Pennsylvania National Guard photo by Brad Rhen)

Police underwater diving unit searching a river for evidence.

Soldiers conduct a survival float, also called a dead mans float, exercise during the Holistic Health and Fitness led swim training conducted at the Fort Bliss Aquatics Training Center Sept. 19-23, 2022. Twenty-nine Soldiers received instruction from veteran swimmer Jeff Utsch to enhance not only their swimming capabilities, but also teach them about the benefits of swimming activities.

030814-F-6911G-010. Base: Nellis Air Force Base State: Nevada (NV) Country: United States Of America (USA)

010513-F-6470D-020. Subject Operation/Series: COMBINED ENDEAVOR 01 Base: Lager Aulenbach State: Rheinland-Pfalz Country: Deutschland / Germany (DEU)

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Louis Newton, a reconnaissance Marine with the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), swims to shore during helocast rehearsals in Skogby, Finland, Aug. 9, 2022. The Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and 22nd MEU, under the command and control of Task Force 61/2, is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

030315-M-5455N-008. Base: Mcas, Cherry Point State: North Carolina (NC) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: 2 MAW

030722-M-9124R-033. Base: Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: 1ST MARDIV

France, Brittany, Coetquidan, Guer on 2021-03-24. Report on the training of the Inter-Arms Military School in Saint-Cyr Coetquidan in Morbihan. The EMIA recruits its students from among active non-commissioned officers and non-commissioned soldiers selected by competition. The cadets follow a two-year training course. At the end of the first year, they are appointed to the rank of second lieutenant, then lieutenant at the end of the second year. Photograph by Martin Bertrand. France, Bretagne, Coetquidan, Guer le 2021-03-24. Reportage sur la formation de l' Ecole militaire interarmes à Saint-Cyr Coetquidan dans le Morbihan. L'EMIA recrute ses eleves parmi les sous-officiers d'active et les militaires du rang selectionnes par concours. Les eleves-officiers suivent une formation de deux ans. A l'issue de la première annee, ils sont nommés au grade de sous-lieutenant, puis de lieutenant a la fin de la seconde annee. Photographie de Martin Bertrand.

U.S. Marine Corps recruit with Hotel Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, participates in a water survival class at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Feb. 5, 2024. The Marine Corps Basic Swim Qualification teaches recruits on how to execute basic water maneuvers, and promotes combat readiness. Marine Corps

220620-A-EQ028-1287 ARABIAN GULF (June 20, 2022) Electricians Mate Fireman Quinn Anderson, assigned to the expeditionary sea base USS Lewis B. Puller (ESB 3), participates in search and rescue training during exercise Iron Defender in the Arabian Gulf, June 20. Iron Defender is an annual bilateral training event between U.S. Naval Forces Central Command and forces from the United Arab Emirates. The exercise focuses on maritime security operations, mine countermeasures, and harbor defense.

110202-N-2013O-152YOKOSUKA, Japan (Feb. 2, 2011) Chief Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician Daniel Martin, left, from Houston, observes special programs candidates perform a water competency evolution during a special programs physical training session at Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka. The candidates are hoping to join the ranks of Naval Special Warfare and Naval Expeditionary Combat Command as Navy special warfare operators, special warfare boat operators, explosive ordnance disposal technicians, and Navy divers.

Navy students take part in High Risk Training to prepare them for Special Operations training on October, 25, 2022 at Joint Base San Antonio- Fort Sam Houston. Naval operations often require aggressive training programs to prepare personnel to perform mission essential high-risk tasks in a variety of environments. All basic or advanced, individual or collective training in a traditional or non-traditional environment exposes the crew, staff, students, and assets to the potential risks one might encounter out in the field.

An Airman assigned to Barksdale Air Force Base, La., jumps into a pool during a survival, evasion, resistance and escape water survival class in Shreveport, La., March 15, 2016. The position reduces the chance of injury from any unseen obstacles underwater.

France, Brittany, Coetquidan, Guer on 2021-03-24. Report on the training of the Inter-Arms Military School in Saint-Cyr Coetquidan in Morbihan. The EMIA recruits its students from among active non-commissioned officers and non-commissioned soldiers selected by competition. The cadets follow a two-year training course. At the end of the first year, they are appointed to the rank of second lieutenant, then lieutenant at the end of the second year. Photograph by Martin Bertrand. France, Bretagne, Coetquidan, Guer le 2021-03-24. Reportage sur la formation de l' Ecole militaire interarmes à Saint-Cyr Coetquidan dans le Morbihan. L'EMIA recrute ses eleves parmi les sous-officiers d'active et les militaires du rang selectionnes par concours. Les eleves-officiers suivent une formation de deux ans. A l'issue de la première annee, ils sont nommés au grade de sous-lieutenant, puis de lieutenant a la fin de la seconde annee. Photographie de Martin Bertrand.

Navy personnel perform High Risk Water Training in preparation for selection for special operations career fields. Medical Deep Sea Diving Technician, Search and Rescue Medical Technician or Special Amphibious Reconnaissance Corpsman training held October, 27, 2022 at Joint Base San Antonio- Fort Sam Houston.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Christopher Estrada, a food service specialist with Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit performs a simulated rescue during a Water Survival Advanced course on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, April 13, 2022. WSA is the highest swim qualification Marines and sailors can obtain before moving onto the next echelon of becoming a Marine Corps Instructor of Water Survival.

U.S. Army Soldiers compete for the German Armed Forces Proficiency Badge at Camp Shelby Joint Forces Training Center, Mississippi, July 30, 2022.

050604-F-7232T-075. Base: Elbert State: Colorado (CO) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: COLORADO ARMY NATIONAL GUARD

220706-N-ZW825-0379 GREAT LAKES, Ill. (July 6, 2022) Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) New Student Indoctrination (NSI) midshipman candidates depart the life raft during a survival at sea training event at Recruit Training Command (RTC), July 6. Upon completion of NSI, the candidates will start their freshman year of the NROTC program at colleges and universities nationwide this fall. NSI is an indoctrination program hosted at RTC, and provides midshipmen with a common military training orientation. NSI provides basic training in five warfighting fundamentals - firefighting, damage control, seamanship, watchstanding and small arms handling and marksmanship - to begin creating basically trained and smartly disciplined future Navy and Marine Corps officers. NROTC is overseen by Commander, Naval Service Training Command (NSTC), Rear Adm. Jennifer S. Couture, which supports naval accessions training for 98 percent of the Navys new officers and enlisted Sailors.

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Patrick Killeen, an explosives ordnance disposal technician with Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit helps lift a tire out of the water during a Water Survival Advanced course on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, April 13, 2022. WSA is the highest swim qualification Marines and sailors can obtain before moving onto the next echelon of becoming a Marine Corps Instructor of Water Survival.

U.S. Air Force Airmen from the Special Tactics Training Squadron jump into their pool during water confidence training evaluation, Hurlburt Field, Fla., Sept. 30, 2011. To advance in training, STTS Airmen are required to successfully complete water confidence training.

A Green Beret with 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne) inspects underwater knots during a two week long pre-dive course on Jan. 10-19, 2024.Combat Divers go through multiple days of training while problem solving in oxygen deprived environments. They must face discomfort and overcome instinct gain confidence in the water. The pre-dive areas of emphasis include; weight belt training, equipment recovery, dive supervision pre-inspection, and U.S. Navy drown proofing techniques of hand bound, travel, bobbing, mask retrieval, and floating.

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Matthew OBrien, an 82nd Expeditionary Rescue Squadron survival, evasion, resistance and escape specialist, performs swimming drills during a pre-assessment to prepare them for the French Desert Commando Course (FDCC), Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, April 7, 2022. Since 2015, the French Forces stationed in Djibouti (FFDJ) have invited U.S. service members with Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa to participate in the course. During the FDCC, the members are evaluated on mountain confidence, knot tying, night obstacle courses, aquatic obstacle courses, and battle maneuver tactics as well as presented with physical challenges.

Navy students take part in High Risk Training to prepare them for Special Operations training on November, 01, 2022 at Joint Base San Antonio- Fort Sam Houston, Tx. Naval operations often require aggressive training programs to prepare personnel to perform mission essential high-risk tasks in a variety of environments. All basic or advanced, individual or collective training in a traditional or non-traditional environment exposes the crew, staff, students, and assets to the potential risks one might encounter out in the field.

Illinois Army National Guard Soldiers assigned to Company B, 1st Battalion, 106th Aviation Regiment conduct Combat Water Survival Training May 22, 2022 at Olivet Nazarene University in Bourbonnais, IL. This training allows for a simulated environment, meant to assist Soldiers in developing survival skills to help prepare for situations such as helicopter crashes near large masses of water. Its good to have these experiences with one another, said 1st Lt. Jonathan Mercado. Being able to conduct this training successfully is going to identify who may need additional support and ensure success for follow on missions.

Spc. Kyle Bohl, supply specialist, 1st Theater Sustainment Command, participates in the HHC, 1st TSC survival swimming training at Fort Knox, Kentucky, July 21, 2022. The 1st TSC holds regular training events in order to ensure mission readiness throughout the unit.

U.S. Army Soldiers from around the United States Army Pacific and 25th Infantry Division perform a Combat Water Survival Assessment during Jungle School at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, Oct. 11, 2022. The Combat Water Survival Assessment includes soldiers performing dawn and ditch, a 5m platform jump with a weapon, a 5-minute tread, and a 50m swim.

U.S. Marine Corps Recruits with Delta Company, First Recruit Training Battalion, float during the first day of swim training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, June 6, 2022. The Marine Corps Instructors of Water Survival are responsible to maintain safety through the entirety of swim week.

Paratroopers assigned to Charlie Troop, 1-73 Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division take part in the Combat Water Survival Test for the XVIII Airborne Corps Best Squad Competition on Fort Stewart, GA, July 27, 2022. The Best Squad Competition tests squads' physical, technical and tactical abilities under stress and fatigue to determine which squad from the XVIII Airborne Corps will advance to the Forces Command Best Squad Competition in the coming months.

Students in a second class diver course tread water during a training session. Base: Naval Amphibious Base, Coronado State: California(CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S Air Force Senior Airman Fernando Marquez, 10th Air Support Operations Squadron tactical air control party specialist, participates in a 1500 meter swim during Wraith Challenge 22 in Burnet, Texas, Oct. 5, 2022. TACPs swam in full uniform with fins, mask and an optional snorkel. Wraith Challenge 22 brought seven teams of tactical air control party Airmen from the 3rd ASOG together to compete in tests of physical and mental challenges.

060725-N-8148A-107. Base: Naval Amphib Base, Little Creek State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Members of the 334th Training Squadron combat controllers and the 335th Training Squadron special operations weather team prepare to enter the triangle pool as they participate in a memorial physical training session Sept. 26, 2014, at Keesler Air Force Base, Miss. The session included a ruck march along the Ocean Springs Beach and over the Biloxi-Ocean Springs Bridge. The PT event was in memory of combat controllers Senior Airman Mark Forester, who was killed in action Sept. 29, 2010, and Senior Airman Daniel Sanchez, who was KIA Sept. 16, 2010.

U.S. Marines with 3d Reconnaissance Battalion conduct wet silk training on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan April 24, 2022. This specialized training provided Marines with enhanced skills and confidence for deliberate water parachute operations, ensuring they are prepared to execute a diverse set of waterborne reconnaissance and surveillance missions in order to maintain regional security in the Indo-Pacific.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Nickolas Ronquillo, an administrative clerk with 5th Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, III Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group performs a simulated rescue during a Water Survival Advanced course on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, April 13, 2022. WSA is the highest swim qualification Marines and sailors can obtain before moving onto the next echelon of becoming a Marine Corps Instructor of Water Survival. III MIG functions as the vanguard of III MEF, operating in the Indo-Pacific regions information environment, and supports Marine Air Ground Task Force operations with communications, intelligence, and supporting arms liaison capabilities.

GREAT LAKES, Ill. (July 19, 2021) Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) New Student Indoctrination (NSI) midshipman candidates participate in swimming qualifications inside the USS Indianapolis (CG 35) Combat Training Pool at Recruit Training Command (RTC), July 19, 2021. Upon completion of NSI, the candidates will start their freshman year of the NROTC program at colleges and universities nationwide this fall.

Petty Officer 1st Class Westley Gorman, a Navy hospital corpsman assigned to the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, tests his mask seal and breathing apparatus in the pool at Naval Station Everett, Washington, during the Joint Hyperbaric Medical Officer and Technician Course, April 26, 2022.

A U.S. Marine Corps recruit with Echo Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, conducts a tower jump during the first day of swim week at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Aug. 22, 2022. The basic swim qualification consists of a 25-meter swim, tower jump into the water, four-minute tread, 25-meter pack swim, and an underwater gear shed.

On the last day of March, the Bronco Battalion reported to the Boise State University pool for their annual water training exercises. The exercise required cadets to tread water, swim while keeping the muzzle of a rifle above the water line and jumping off the high dive board.The cadets of the Boise State ROTC Program, the Bronco Battalion, crossed the midway point through the semester in March. Their last field training exercise in the foothills overlooking the City of Boise took place in March. They travelled to Utahs National Guard Camp Williams for the actual application of their cumulative knowledge of tactics for the semester. Their focus on fitness training has been in preparation for the Army Combat Fitness Test in April. The Spring 2022 Semester is rapidly coming to an end April 29 with graduating cadets scheduled for commissioning on May 6 and graduation on May 7.

061031-N-5307M-102. Base: Norfolk State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Sgt. Fred Lino of the 29th Brigade Support Battalion in the Hawaii Army National Guard executes one of the swim survival events at the National Best Warrior Competition held at Middle Tennessee State University in Murfreesboro, Tenn., July 25, 2022. Fourteen competitors from around the nation came together to compete July 22-29. The National Best Warrior Competition has the best of the best Soldiers in the Army National Guard.

U.S. Army Paratroopers assigned to the 173rd Airborne Brigade, perform wet silk training in the Vicenza swimming pool, Italy, April 12, 2023. In this part of the training the Paratroopers tread water for 10 minutes. This exercise is part of deliberate water airborne operation familiarization training before an upcoming jump at Lake Garda, Italy. The 173rd Airborne Brigade is the U.S. Army Contingency Response Force in Europe, capable of projecting ready forces anywhere in the U.S. European, Africa or Central Commands' areas of responsibility.

The 100th Battalion, 442nd Infantry Regiment, U.S. Army Hawaii Reserve and French soldiers work together to complete a water obstacle course on Camp Papeari Tahiti, French Polynesia, May 11, 2022. Our bilateral exercises strengthen our relationships and increase interoperability with allies and partners through shared experiences and tough, realistic training.

Submarine diver.

A Fort Meade Medical Department Activity Soldier executes combat water survival during the Fort Meade MEDDAC 3rd Quarter Best Leader Competition, Fort Meade, Maryland, July 8. Eight Soldiers competed in a variety of events over the course of 96 hours. The Fort Meade MEDDAC includes a number of U.S. Army health clinics at several other locations in Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania and the District of Columbia.

220706-N-ZW825-0955 GREAT LAKES, Ill. (July 6, 2022) Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) New Student Indoctrination (NSI) midshipman candidates swim during a survival at sea training event at Recruit Training Command (RTC), July 6. Upon completion of NSI, the candidates will start their freshman year of the NROTC program at colleges and universities nationwide this fall. NSI is an indoctrination program hosted at RTC, and provides midshipmen with a common military training orientation. NSI provides basic training in five warfighting fundamentals - firefighting, damage control, seamanship, watchstanding and small arms handling and marksmanship - to begin creating basically trained and smartly disciplined future Navy and Marine Corps officers. NROTC is overseen by Commander, Naval Service Training Command (NSTC), Rear Adm. Jennifer S. Couture, which supports naval accessions training for 98 percent of the Navys new officers and enlisted Sailors.

U.S. Marines prepare to patrol in shallow waters during a dive sustainment training on Camp Schwab, Okinawa, Japan, Feb. 8, 2024. The training is designed to enhance the Marines proficiency and capabilities for specialized insert and extract operations. The Marines are with 3d Reconnaissance Battalion, 3d Marine Division Marine Corps

Cpl. Denise Houston, a Ridgeland, S.C., native, hangs on to a Zodiac boat as she, along with fellow Soldiers, try to get the watercraft turned back over Aug. 14 at Fort Leonard Wood's Training Area 250 Lake. Troops from the Forward Support Company, 94th Engineer Battalion, part of the 4th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, 1st Infantry Division, were challenged with various tasks, including boat drills and swimming with waterproofed gear.

U.S. Army Paratroopers assigned to the 173rd Airborne Brigade, swim under a parachute in the Vicenza swimming pool, Italy, April 12, 2023. This exercise is part of deliberate water airborne operation familiarization training before an upcoming jump at Lake Garda, Italy. The 173rd Airborne Brigade is the U.S. Army Contingency Response Force in Europe, capable of projecting ready forces anywhere in the U.S. European, Africa or Central Commands' areas of responsibility.

Members of the 117th Air Refueling Wing participate in water survival training at a local YMCA near Sumpter Smith Joint National Guard Base, Alabama, Aug. 14, 2022. The class is a three year renewal course to keep pilots and aircrew updated on surviving in the event of a crash over water.

Special warfare candidates perform swim tactics and team building exercises during the Special Warfare Training Wing Assessment & Selection Course at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland on March 14, 2023. Trainees in every course in the pipeline are provided hostic support to prepare each candidate physically, mentally, emotionally and cognitively for demanding careers as special warfare operators.

U.S. Army Paratroopers assigned to the 173rd Airborne Brigade, perform wet silk training in the Vicenza swimming pool, Italy, April 12, 2023. In this part of the training the Paratroopers tread water for 10 minutes. This exercise is part of deliberate water airborne operation familiarization training before an upcoming jump at Lake Garda, Italy. The 173rd Airborne Brigade is the U.S. Army Contingency Response Force in Europe, capable of projecting ready forces anywhere in the U.S. European, Africa or Central Commands' areas of responsibility.

Recruits with Hotel Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, receive coaching during swim week on Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C., Jan. 2, 2024. Following coaching, recruits must demonstrate their proficiency in the water in order to progress to the next phase of recruit training.

On a tour of Lackland Air Force Base (AFB), Texas, United States Air Force (USAF), CHIEF of STAFF (CS), General (GEN) John P. Jumper, second from left, watches a water survival demonstration by a 342nd Training Squadron (TS) pararescue trainee. With the CS are left to right, MASTER Sergeant (MSGT) Bryan Winder, a Combat Training Flight Superintendent, Major (MAJ) Michael P. Buonaugurio, the 342nd TS Commander, GEN Donald G. Cook, the Air Education and Training Command (AETC) Commander, Major General (MGEN) John F. Regni, the 2nd Air Force Commander and Brigadier General (BGEN) Fred D. Van Valkenburg, Commander, 37th Training Wing (TW). Accompanying the tour are Mrs. Ellen Jumper, Mrs..... Complete Scene Caption: On a tour of Lackland Air Force Base (AFB), Texas, United States Air Force (USAF), CHIEF of STAFF (CS), General (GEN) John P. Jumper, second from left, watches a water survival demonstration by a 342nd Training Squadron (TS) pararescue trainee. With the CS are left to right,

Recruits with Kilo Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, conduct basic swim qualification aboard Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C., Dec. 12, 2022. Basic swim qualification consists of a 25 meter swim, tower jump into the water, four minute tread, 25 meter pack swim, and an under water gear shed.

Swedish Marine Private First Class Ellinor Beyronsdotter, a combat swim boat diver, with 2d Swedish Marine Battalion, gives a period of instruction on procedures for an abandoned ship drill to U.S. Marines with II Marine Expeditionary Force, prior to a Swedish swim assessment on Berga Naval Base, Sweden, September 5, 2022 during exercise Archipelago Endeavor. AE22 is an integrated field training exercise that increases operational capability and enhances strategic cooperation between the U.S. Marines and Swedish forces. (U.S. Marine Corps photos by Cpl. Timothy Fowler)

JACKSONVILLE, Florida (JAN. 11, 2023) - Educators from schools throughout the Ohio River Valley, tour one of America's Navy's surface rescue swimmer schools, onboard Naval Air Station Jacksonville, during an educator orientation visit hosted by Navy Talent Acquisition Group Ohio River Valley NTAG ORV covers Ohio, West Virginia Kentucky and parts of Indiana for recruiting and Navy outreach for non-fleet concentration areas.

U.S. Airmen assigned to the 48th Fighter Wing and Royal Air Force Mildenhall help each other board a life raft during a Survival, Evasion, Resistance and Escape water survival training course at Lowestoft, England, Jan. 7, 2022. During the course, Airmen from the 48th Fighter Wing participated in the training as part of a requirement all flight personnel must complete every three years.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Brandon Tran, a ground electronics transmission systems maintainer with Headquarters and Support Battalion, Marine Corps Installations Pacific, swims during a Martial Arts Instructor course at Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, April 26, 2022. The Marines participated in the 15-day MAI course to become instructors and gain the ability to train and advance Marines in the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program.

Paratroopers assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion, 82nd Airborne Division participate in the HHBn swim progression program on 24 Aug., 2022. The program is an eight week course designed to improve a Paratroopers confidence in the water and overall physical fitness.

A U.S. Marine participating in the 3d Reconnaissance Battalion Screening Team Hawaii Roadshow conducts a 25-meter underwater swim, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, March 23, 2023. The physical screening test evaluated, assessed and selected Marines potentially capable of earning the reconnaissance military occupational specialty.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Ryan Switon, a rifleman with 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, uprights a life raft during a Swedish swim assessment with guidance from Swedish swim instructor Private First Class Ragno Arvid during exercise Archipelago Endeavor 22 at Berga Naval Base, Sweden, Sept. 5, 2022. AE22 is an integrated field training exercise that increases operational capability and enhances strategic cooperation between the U.S. Marines and Swedish forces.

U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific(MARFORPAC), Marines conduct water survival training at Camp H.M. Smith, Hawaii, Feb. 27, 2024.MARFORPAC Marine Corps Instructors of Water Survival (MCIWS) trained Marines from units around the island, including the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency, through basic and intermediate swim qualifications to fulfill their swim qualification requirements during this multiple-hour exercise. The course is designed to train Marines in water survival through intense aquatic training events such as victim rescues, distance swims, and underwater endurance exercises. Air Force

U.S. Marines with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit participate in Underwater Egress Training (UET) on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, July 6, 2022. UET is a course providing service members with the skills and confidence to successfully and safely escape from aircraft submerged in water.

Navy students take part in High Risk Training to prepare them for Special Operations training on November, 01, 2022 at Joint Base San Antonio- Fort Sam Houston, Tx. Naval operations often require aggressive training programs to prepare personnel to perform mission essential high-risk tasks in a variety of environments. All basic or advanced, individual or collective training in a traditional or non-traditional environment exposes the crew, staff, students, and assets to the potential risks one might encounter out in the field.

Paratroopers assigned to Charlie Troop, 1-73 Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division take part in the Combat Water Survival Test for the XVIII Airborne Corps Best Squad Competition on Fort Stewart, GA, July 27, 2022. The Best Squad Competition tests squads' physical, technical and tactical abilities under stress and fatigue to determine which squad from the XVIII Airborne Corps will advance to the Forces Command Best Squad Competition in the coming months.

U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Daniel W. Chow, left, company commander, Headquarters Company, Headquarters and Service Battalion (HQSVCBN), U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific (MARFORPAC), and French Army Soldat de Premiere Classe Theo Cassin, combat medic, Marine Infantry Regiment in French Polynesia, French Armed Forces, emerge from the water during a run-swim-run training exercise in Arue, Tahiti, French Polynesia, Sept. 2, 2022. The event provided a bilateral training opportunity between the French Armed Forces and Marines with MARFORPAC. The nine Marines and Sailor from HQSVCBN participated in the bilateral training with the French Armed Forces in order to strengthen relationships with the region.

U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Daniel W. Chow, left, company commander, Headquarters Company, Headquarters and Service Battalion (HQSVCBN), U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific (MARFORPAC), and French Army Soldat de Premiere Classe Theo Cassin, combat medic, Marine Infantry Regiment in French Polynesia, French Armed Forces, emerge from the water during a run-swim-run training exercise in Arue, Tahiti, French Polynesia, Sept. 2, 2022. The event provided a bilateral training opportunity between the French Armed Forces and Marines with MARFORPAC. The nine Marines and Sailor from HQSVCBN participated in the bilateral training with the French Armed Forces in order to strengthen relationships with the region.

U.S. Marine Corps recruits with Golf Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, receive instruction during swim week at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Feb. 13, 2023. Recruits are required to pass all swim events in the water survival course in order to graduate as a basically trained Marine.

011127-M-2427M-002. Base: Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe State: Hawaii (HI) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Sailors in the Hospital Corpsman Basic program at the Medical Education and Training Campus, JBSA-Fort Sam Houston, Texas tread water during High Risk Training on October 25, 2022. The training is designed to prepare them for Special Operations training, where the sailors will execute high-risk tasks in a variety of environments.

Lt. Col. Ronald Pieri inflates his blouse during Marine combat water survival training at an air base in Southwest Asia. Members of the fire department there participated in this training to receive a combat water survival certification. Pieri is the 386th Expeditionary Civil Engineer Squadron commander.

U.S. Marine Corps recruits with Hotel Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, participate in a water survival class at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Feb. 5, 2024. The Marine Corps Basic Swim Qualification teaches recruits on how to execute basic water maneuvers, and promotes combat readiness. Marine Corps

Service members with the Task Force Red Dragon and Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa, perform a swimming obstacle course assessment during a French Desert Commando Course (FDCC) pre-assessment at 5th Overseas Interarms Regiment, Djibouti, April 19, 2022. Since 2015, the French Forces stationed in Djibouti (FFDJ) have invited U.S. service members with Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa to participate in the course. During the FDCC, the members are evaluated on mountain confidence, knot tying, night obstacle courses, aquatic obstacle courses, and battle maneuver tactics as well as presented with physical challenges.

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