What It Actually Takes To Be a Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer

I went through Coast Guard Search and Rescue training in hopes to learn as much as I can before rescuing someone from the ocean...

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MASSIVE Thanks to the United States Coast Guard for making this happen!

In this video I’m stepping into the shoes of a Coast Guard Search and Rescue (SAR) team member, ready to experience firsthand what it takes to save lives from the skies. Coast Guard SAR isn’t just any rescue operation—it’s a highly trained, military-level response team prepared for the most intense and unpredictable situations imaginable. From hovering over rough seas to winching down into dangerous waters, these heroes respond to emergencies with speed, precision, and a commitment to saving lives. My goal? To get a taste of their world, face the same physical and mental demands, and understand the skills that keep these teams ready for anything. Follow along as I discover the grit, bravery, and teamwork that defines Coast Guard SAR and see if I’m up for the challenge!

00:00 Introduction
00:49 Aviation Survival Technician (AST) training at The Coast Guard Training Center in Petaluma, CA
12:05 Safety Test & Prep
12:50 Emergency Training
16:50 Final Mission

[AustenAlexander]

please LIKE this video if you want me to do more videos like this one!

[shadinz]

The coast guards are really crazy, in terms of dealing with fear, their physical conditions and on top of that, they face THE mother nature. They're definitely some of the top 1% in shape compared to any branch of the military and paramilitary combined.

Huge respect for those. 💪

[Userasksarcasm]

The Coast Guard has my utmost respect. I’m glad to see a light shining on this area of our Armed Forces.

[trob]

Guys train for months to pass the 'rescue swimmer' course so even though Austen's in pretty good shape AST skills are above and beyond, KUDOS Austen!!

[uscg_grace]

dude tysm for doing this!! I'm active duty CG and we don't get enough appreciation

[knoise]

People don't think of the coast guard having special forces but I know the people of pacific northwest apreaciate the dedication.

[DarkMessiahh]

As someone who is going with a rescue swimmer contract next month, you have no idea how much I appreciate this video.

[Adventuregirl]

Thank you for working with our Rescue Swimmers (AST) they are an amazing bunch, and it is heartwarming to see them get a chance to shine for the public.

[micmars]

I'm a 20 year veteran of the CG and went to EMT school with the AST's. They were great bunch of guys, a different breed for sure. Great to see them highlighted as they should be,

[HealingHeartstherapy]

I think Austen’s fans are all well aware of how strong you are! This looks incredibly challenging mentally and physically and inspiring with the camaraderie and support. Incredible display of self discipline and endurance and how strong our military is! Freaking fire 🎉Much respect

[EasterEdwards]

Can't believe how good this turned out!

[anchoredsoul]

Active Duty Coast Guard here. The collaboration was great!

[tysonstraga]

I have worked with land based SAR. Water SAR is a phenomenon i cant comprehend. Cheers to the US Coast Guard.

[paigeawin]

As someone who almost drowned (I figured out how to save myself with my last seconds of consciousness underwater), I watch these coast guard videos with appreciation and trepidation. I fight the flashbacks as I'm watching all these underwater-struggling scenes. Knowing that the coast guards are excellent at their jobs is the only way I'm able to watch these videos until the very end. Thank you USCG!

[ashleyt]

First as a Coastie I appreciate you for being more awareness to the CG Austen. A second our ASTs don’t get enough credit for the hard work they put in to train, some train for 2+ years to make it to show and train harder to graduate school. I commend you for taking on this challenge. (I’ve worked out with some of them and it’s not joke 😂) BZ

[loganball]

Out of all these videos I've watched that you've made, THIS is the one I wanted to see. Favorite movie as a kid was The Guardian so it's cool to know that our actual service men use a reference from that movie. Also, it shows how hard it truly is when someone who is in as good a shape as you are is still really struggling in some areas. Gives an even greater appreciation for this job. Excellent work from idea, training and video. Keep 'em comin!

[richs]

Great video on a group that few people know about. These Rescue Swimmers are unbelievable fit, courageous and under appreciated! Austen is one brave guy to undertake this challenge.

[seanconnolly]

Thank you from myself and my fellow Coasties for the great video and representation, Semper P!

[wildraptor]

"if you don't do it no one will" damn

[Debbie]

Much respect for posting this. You always do well in other challenges and this just shows how badass Rescue Swimmers are.