MCB HAWAII -- In preparation of an upcoming deployment, 6th Platoon of 3rd Radio Battalion completed the Modular Amphibious Egress Trainer this week. The platoon will be attached to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit and need the training in case a helicopter crashes.
The training consists of multiple scenarios where the Marines go through a simulated helicopter crash and make their way out of the helicopter. This training gives the Marines who complete it confidence in themselves if ever they crash over water.
“It’s pretty intense,” said Cpl. Richard Schermerhorn, team leader, 6th Platoon, 3rd Rad. “It’s training that makes you feel like you’re going to drown and then you have to escape. It’s pretty awesome.”
During the training, Marines are able to familiarize themselves with using breathing regulators and emergency equipment. Also, they learn water survival techniques as a group and individual.
The Marines also have to escape from a simulated helicopter when wearing flack and helmet. After that, the first scenario requires they wear black out goggles to show even if they opened their eyes underwater, it would be pitch black. This helps them familiarize with the aircraft to know exactly where the exits are and how to get out in an emergency.
“You don’t really think about how to get out of a helicopter before it really happens,” Schermerhorn said.
The training also gave the Marines knowledge of how to survive when stranded in open water. They learned the most effective way to stay connected as a group and how to use the life raft. Also they learned how to survive when on their own including how to use a trash bag to stay warm in cold water.
“I think it is great training,” said Lance Cpl. Andrew Davis, linguist, 6th Platoon, 3rd Rad. “Only about four percent of the Marine Corps gets this training. It’s challenging but in a helicopter crash, after doing this training, we will be more confident and have a higher chance of survival.”
This training isn’t just for helicopter crashes. If you crash a car in water you will be able to use this training to escape. It helps you orient yourself when submerged so you can find the best exit, Davis said.
With the completion of this training, the Marines will be that much more prepared for their deployment with the MEU.
“We will take away confidence of being able to egress out of a downed helicopter in water,” Davis said. “And the skills aren’t just for aircraft but for anything underwater.”