Search and rescue (SAR) swimmers from the "Golden Falcons" of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) 2 completed SAR jumps Feb. 8, during their annual required training in the San Diego Bay.

The SAR jumps are part of an annual training exercise to ensure SAR swimmers are current on their qualifications.

The swimmers are required to successfully complete four day-jumps and two night-hoists. SAR swimmers enter the water from a safety boat, Higgin's Landing Craft Utility (LCU), and are hoisted safely into the helicopter by a mechanical driven cable. Then, they jump from a helicopter hovering 10 feet above the water at 12 mph. After completing all requirements the swimmers are recovered by the LCU.

“Being a SAR swimmer is a very demanding job,” said Cmdr. Ritchard R. Thompson, commanding officer of HS-2.

“The training exercises give them a realistic experience so they’ll be ready for any situation and know how to react.”

The training helps swimmers prepare for real life rescues and ensures they know proper safety procedures, explained Aviation Warfare Systems Operator 1st Class (AW) Paul David Noriega, training lead petty officer for the squadron.

“It takes a lot of drive, motivation and training to become a SAR swimmer,” said Aviation Warfare Systems Operator 2nd Class (AW) Patrick Sullivan, aircrew tactics petty officer for the squadron. “The training is very fast paced because there’s a lot to learn. It took me two years to finish all of my training and get into the fleet with just a basic understanding of SAR."

“We have to be in great physical shape,” said Noriega. “We work out everyday mainly for endurance. In our job it doesn’t mean anything to be a world-class swimmer if you can’t swim in the gear.”

SAR swimmers wear a wet suit, snorkel mask, utility harness, floatation device, and fins during rescue missions.

“Although many crew members play a role in the squadrons mission, SAR swimmers are the heroes of the operation,” said Sullivan. “The swimmers help save lives by ensuring the survivors don’t drown, have proper floatation, and are away from any hazards.”

“The best part of my job is going out to sea and employing the skills I’ve learned through school and training,” said Sullivan. “It’s awesome to be able to help out in such terrible times and make an positive impact on someone else’s life.” [ANN Salutes Journalist Seaman Jennifer S. Kimball, Fleet Public Affairs Center, Pacific]

FMI: www.navy.mil