Special Tactics Airmen learn to breathe underwater Published June 30, 2016 By by Senior Airman Ryan Conroy 24th Special Operations Wing HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. -- Special Tactics Training Squadron students underwent pre-scuba training at Hurlburt Field, June 29, 2016.The training familiarizes trainees with the basics of water operations. The trainees perform tasks such as tying knots underwater, learning how to stay afloat without their arms and hands, and how to use snorkeling gear. Special Tactics students later apply this knowledge to combat dive training. This training also reproduces physiological effects similar those experienced on the battlefield, and thus builds the necessary mental resiliency for ground special operations force.