Dunker

Jareth has been busy everyday taking a multitude of Army classes, getting familiar with post, getting introduced to helicopters and what is to come over the course of flight school and being tested mentally and physically.  This week is the Dunker or Helicopter Overwater Survival Training (HOST). 

What is Dunker training?

Army dunker survival training consists of a series of underwater exercises to familiarize or refresh crew with the steps necessary to extricate themselves from a submerged helicopter (also known as "ditching"). Training takes place at several locations within the United States, including military bases and commercial sites.

Why Water Training?


Since most Army aviation assets are rotary wing--and helicopters are notoriously top-heavy due to the operating gear positioned above the fuselage--they roll over almost immediately when submerged.
 
Gear
 
Trainees are required to wear flight duty gear, including flight suits, boots and helmets. Training centers provide clothing
 
Screening
 
Those who are training need to suit up and tread water for five minutes, swim the length of an Olympic-size pool and swim under water across the dunker pool

Exercises

If one passes the screening, he then prepares for a free fall drop and roll-over in the dunker. He grabs a reference point for orientation. He stays in position until the dunker completely rolls, releases himself and exits.

Discomfort and Hazards


Dunker training isn't without discomfort. A trainee must hold his breath as water floods his nasal cavities. Chaos on exiting means enduring kicks and flailing limbs from seven or eight others as he quickly runs out of air. Straps and seatbelts can prohibit exiting; if this occurs, he is to fold his arms across his chest and wait for help. Black goggles increase disorientation; he should relax and float to the top of the pool.

source: http://www.ehow.com/facts_6062614_army-dunker-training.html