For Soldiers in the 3rd Battalion, 85th Infantry Regiment, Warrior Transition Unit, not only is it important to heal their bodies but also their minds and souls.
Fort Drum's WTU leaders believe in this complete package of healing, and they are always looking for ways to aid Soldiers. Staff Sgt. Juan Carrasco, squad leader with 3-85 Infantry, had an idea about getting Soldiers involved with scuba diving.
"I have wanted to put together a program for a while, and I contacted the National Aquatic Service in Syracuse," Carrasco said. "With their help we set up an introduction session Sept. 23 at the Pine Plains Physical fitness Center Pool."
Some Soldiers from the WTU and around post have already participated in classes in Syracuse with Mike Druce, NSA. director of education. Druce has wanted to get the word out to more Soldiers on Fort Drum about the benefits of scuba diving.
"Scuba diving is a really therapeutic way to help wounded Soldiers," Druce said. "It is a very calming activity (because) it is silent and peaceful under water.
"Carrasco called me, and I was so excited about the idea. I jumped right in and started planning."
"Druce and other NAS employees brought tanks of air and all the scuba equipment for Soldiers to use. For four hours Soldiers got a feel for scuba diving and talked with the instructors about how to take up scuba diving as a hobby.
Sgt. Vandy Thon, 3-85 Infantry, took part in the session for various reasons.
"I have never scuba dived before," Thon said. "This allows me to be more active than other sports, and there are very few limitations in the water. Activities like this heal our mind, body and soul and help to boost morale. With scuba, no matter the injury, all of us can participate and bond."
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