Swimming?

[Anonymous]

I had read the post regarding water survival-combat. I got a little bit nervous. I am set to ship out on May 25, 2004. I DO NOT KNOW HOW TO SWIM! Is this going to be a problem?

Thanks

Eva227@aol.com

[Anonymous]

For basic? No. Swimming is not a requirement. Then again, you might work especially hard on your balancing skills, because some (3, I believe) of the obstacles on the confidence course are over water --- not a problem if you have normal kids' playground skills. There's a 2-rope 100 meter bridge, a rope to swing across a 10-15 yard water crossing, and a monkey-bar water crossing. They post lifeguard-type to assist anyone who should fall in and require help.

For your job? If you're a flyer, eventually you'll attend WST (Water Survival Training) because you'll need to be effective wherever you find yourself if you need to eggress an aircraft.

But look at this as an opportunity: You have 2 whole weeks here. Why not hook up with a local swimming coach/team, or YMCA, explain your situation, and ask them to help you develop a few basic skills, like treading water, or anything they might consider key to "waterproofing" you? These days, there are enough adults taking swimming lessons as they decide to compete in triathalons that you needn't feel self concious. You start wherever you are. Go to basic with at least 2 new skills that you feel confident about.

Then, after you pass basic and go to your first base, you can pick up where you left off in your new community. In no time, you'll be a swimmer. In short, don't worry...just work it out. Good luck; and remember, they won't let you drown; you're all on the same team. But wouldn't it be cool to be able to assist someone else, rather than needing help?

T_Pau@juno.com