FORT HUNTER LIGGETT, Calif. – Engineer soldiers participating in Castle Installation Related Construction for their annual training honed their water survival skills with a drownproofing class at Fort Hunter Liggett, Calif., Aug. 6.
The classes took place in the base swimming pool to teach soldiers to keep calm when faced with the threat of drowning. Soldiers were taught various swimming strokes and ways to keep themselves afloat in the water.
“I didn’t think the pants would inflate very well,” said Pfc. Rosemarie Seguin, engineer, 486th Engineer Company. During the class, soldiers learned methods of filling Army Combat Uniform trousers with air to act as a flotation device.
The most important lesson the soldiers can take away from the training is don’t panic, whether it’s a simulation or real scenario said Spc. Meagan Dennis, supply specialist, 983rd Headquarters and Headquarters Company and drown proofing instructor.
But that doesn’t mean the soldiers can’t enjoy themselves.
“It’s important to get people laughing and relaxed. The class goes easier,” said Dennis.