Blow Bubbles

While stationed at Naval Air Station, Pensacola, we trained aviators and flight crew. It is important all were sufficient in their job to minimize mishaps. Mishaps can cause damage to equipment and or loss of life.

However, working in a job such as this, mishaps can and will happen. This is why training was given to help save a life when equipment failed. One such training was, the Underwater Egress Trainer. This was a helicopter on rails that would hit the water in a pool and flip upside down. The sailors and Marines would be strapped in and the simulator would be released. It would hit the water violently and flip upside down.

The trainees would have to remain seated underwater until the green light came on. At this time they would unbuckle and exit the simulated crash. This was difficult in many ways. First, you have to remain strapped in upside down until you get the green light.

This taught patience, not panicking, and assessing the situation first. Being underwater, upside down in the dark can cause a crewman to lose their way and drown. In addition, all were taught a technique of blowing bubbles. By blowing bubbles it would show you which way was up, leading to life-saving air. Bubbles were your friend.

Have you ever had a time in life when your world was upside down? When situational darkness was all around you and you didn’t know which way to go? First, we must face the truth to have a starting point. We all want to better ourselves, but you must face the facts as to where you are and why you are there before you can find your way out.

When this happens don’t panic and lose your way. Remain calm in the darkness, wait patiently for the green light to come on in your life. Then blow bubbles and follow them out of the drowning darkness.

REFUSE 2B FEEBLE