MARINE CORPS AIR STATION MIRAMAR, Calif. – -- The modern day battlefield has evolved over the years, and inserting Marines via helicopter into hot spots is a key element of a battle plan. Preparing for the unexpected is how we as Marines survive. As talented and safe as our mechanics are, there is always the possibility of a mechanical malfunction or enemy fire, especially when traveling over water.
Training to egress from a downed helicopter in water is essential for survival. Various reserve Marines from Marine Aircraft Group 46 Headquarters were fortunate enough to go through this training.
Navy divers and instructors from the Aviation Survival Training Center volunteered their time over a weekend to come in and train the 12 Marines.
Starting with classroom instruction, Petty Officer 1st Class Ralph Nay went over basic underwater egress and ditching principles and procedures. Prior to entering the water, the Marines had to take a series of written tests and verbal quizzes, ensuring they knew what was covered.
“Everyone must get 100 percent on the tests in order to move to the next stage of training,” said Nay. “Your survival in the water is contingent upon what you have learned in the classroom.”
Understanding how to use the flotation devices and preparing for the worst case scenario will help in surviving. There are several styles of vests and breathing devices. Understanding the basics and checking your gear prior to flying is a must.
The next step was jumping off a low tower into a pool, simulating jumping from a helicopter. The Marines then had to swim several laps using several different stroke techniques.
“Depending on how long you will be in the water will determine what stroke to use,” explained Nay. “Simply treading water for a sustained period of time can wear you out. You can also use the drown-proof method to lower your heart rate and conserve energy.”
The drown-proof method consists of taking a slow breath, relaxing your body and putting your face in the water counting for three to five seconds. Then take another controlled breath and repeat the steps. This lowers your heart rate over time and helps to conserve energy.
After a few other training stations, the Marines moved into the Helo-Dunk Tank. This is where a two-ton hydraulic crane lifts a helicopter shell over the water and drops it into the pool. The water quickly consumes the shell. Once the shell hits the water, it immediately turns upside down, just as a real helicopter would. The upside down Marines must then remember where their reference point is, unbuckle their seatbelt, and make their way towards a hatch without using their feet so they don’t kick someone behind them. This all takes place in approximately 10 seconds.
“The confidence this training builds will be something the Marines can take with them for the rest of their careers,” explained Lt. Cmdr. Becky Bates, Aviation Survival Training Center director.
“This was an incredible opportunity for us to get some very useful training,” said Lance Cpl. Ethan Cook, Marine Corps Property, MAG-46. “Evacuating a helicopter in the water is not an easy thing to do, but with this training now, I will be able to do so without hesitation.”