Army SCUBA Diving Training

Training is required to become an Army scuba diver.

The Army offers a wide variety of options for jobs, but not not all of them take place on land. Army Scuba divers have many responsibilities under water, but before they can perform any task under water, they will need the proper training. Swimming under water isn't the only task at hand for Army divers. These individuals will be responsible for repair, construction, patrolling, reconnaissance, demolition and salvage.

Training

The length of basic training for a diver in the Army is nine weeks. During these nine weeks, the diver will learn and become accustomed to basic soldiering skills and 29 other advanced skills learned from on-the-job training. Some training time will be spent in the classroom where essential skills will be taught that are implemented in field work. Skills learned from scuba diving trainers include the principles of scuba and surface-supplied diving, underwater welding and cutting, use and care of hand and power tools, maintenance of diving equipment, and explosives.

Types of Diving

Army divers specialize in either scuba diving that is located near the surface of water, or deep sea diving 190 feet below the surface. Deep sea divers will be required to stay longer periods under water compared to scuba divers near the surface of the water. Both deep sea and shallow diving require specific training to be certified to perform tasks and work in the Army.

Helpful Skills

A variety of helpful skills are learned in scuba diver training that will benefit the diver when working under water. Some of these helpful skills include: inspecting and cleaning water crafts; repairing water crafts; recovering sunken equipment; patrolling below waters; helping with construction of piers and harbor facilities; surveying rivers, beaches and harbors; and use of explosives to remove underwater obstacles.

Advanced Responsibilities

After completing basic training, divers will be able to perform more advanced tasks. Advanced responsibilities include: leading a dive during underwater jobs; preparing patching materials; preparing pumps and rigging; lifting for salvaging; preparing explosives; and assisting diving supervisors in preparing equipment.

Jobs Outside the Army

After receiving scuba diving training in the Army, the skills and experience learned may be used in jobs outside of the Army. Oil and salvage companies need divers to perform on-site job tasks underwater. Construction firms and police and fire rescue units need underwater assistance too. Former Army divers will also be able to operate and maintain merchant ships, tugboats, ferries and excursion vessels.

References

• Go Army: Careers and Jobs: Diver