PC divers resurface from deep training

PANAMA CITY, Fla. – Six divers from the Navy Experimental Diving Unit at Panama City resurfaced from a 500-foot, 11-day saturation dive Feb. 9 for training purposes, and to test dive suits, helmets, and a new communication system. Due to safety concerns, every 100 feet down, requires one full day to decompress and rise back up. Dive Team Leader and Navy Master Diver Eric Wilson said it was a lot of hard work, but he couldn't have done it without the team in the control room topside. "The qualifications, the knowledge level and the commitment of the guys outside actually plays a bigger role," said Wilson. "We just were a little bit deeper." Even though the dive is complete, there are other training tests and standards to meet before they become qualified divers. The divers were glad to be back on land and are excited to enjoy things they can do above sea level. "I can't wait to drink an ice cold beer," said Wilson. (Source: WHJG 02/09/17)