On August 17, 2024, Major General Anthony Woods, Commanding General of the Texas State Guard, made a surprise visit to the soldiers of the 6th Brigade during their water survival training in Austin, Texas. The training was conducted by the 3rd Battalion, 6th Brigade, as part of their August drill weekend. Throughout the exercise, rescue divers from the 2nd Battalion, 6th Brigade’s Search and Rescue-Recovery (SARR) unit provided water safety and support, ensuring the soldiers were able to train under safe and realistic conditions. Major General Woods’ unexpected visit emphasized the significance of such training, which is crucial for preparing the Guard members to respond effectively to emergencies across Texas.

All Texas State Guard soldiers receive extensive training in search and rescue skills, including water survival techniques, to ensure they can survive and operate in flooded environments. This preparation enables them to serve and rescue the people of Texas, regardless of the severity of weather conditions they face. The instructors for this training come from the specialized Search and Rescue-Recovery (SARR) unit, which performs search and rescue operations in flooded areas when severe weather or hurricanes impact the state. These soldiers are experts in maritime rescue operations and are capable of conducting underwater salvage and extraction missions. They frequently collaborate with local and state police and other agencies to recover vehicles and items from the seabed. Notably, the SARR unit’s expertise was demonstrated in their long-standing efforts to patch and maintain the USS Texas, a historic U.S. Naval ship, ensuring its preservation for years. Their dedication to both historical preservation and public safety showcases the Texas State Guard’s commitment to serving the state and its residents.

Austin Tx – Aug 17, 2024. Maj. Gen. Anthony Woods, Commander, Texas State Guard visited soldiers from 3rd Battalion 6th Brigade during their water survival training this past drill weekend.

2nd Battalion 6th Brigade, Search and Rescue-Recovery (SARR), rescue divers provided water safety and support during the training exercises.

(Photos by Corp Ronnie Macek, 3BN 6BDE UPAR)

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Here is a video clip of some of the training:

Check out this video from the 6th Brigade’s July training session, where soldiers from their sister unit, the 3rd Battalion, learned the fundamentals of water survival:

Source: Texas State Guard