The single-hand tow is the same technique, however, the Marine is only allowed to use one hand to swim back to land. We wanted to make sure they had enough comfort to swim in water at the same time maintaining their composure in arctic water conditions. Marine First Sgt. Rosendo Reyes, Co. C, 4th Marine Recon Bn., said the water may have been cold, but once he was in it, there was nothing unfamiliar about it. We got in the water and made sure our buddies were good to go and comfortable.
Safety remains our number one affair.
This training not only enhanced the abilities of the Marines to use unfamiliar gear and swim in unfamiliar waters, but also was practice for later missions during the exercise. The unit will assist the opposing forces during the exercise. Northern Edge is the state s largest annual joint training exercise. It began Mar. 19 and continues through Mar. 30. Approximately 10,000 active and reserve soldiers, sailors, Marines, airmen, Coast Guardsmen and Canadian Navy, will train at military installations, ranges, and in the city of Ketchikan during the multi-service exercise developed and hosted by Alaskan Command.