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First Lt. Aaron Whitman demonstrates how to swim across the pool while carrying a rifle. (Ben Hillyer / The Natchez Democrat)

Natasha Stamps plunges into the pool. (Ben Hillyer / The Natchez Democrat)

Kaitlyn Jackson, above, closed her eyes before her attempt to jump in the pool while holding onto her rifle. (Ben Hillyer / The Natchez Democrat)

(Ben Hillyer / The Natchez Democrat)

Cadets offered words of encouragement to their fellow ROTC members who have trouble swimming. Spotters in the pool were on hand to assist if any swimmers needed help. (Ben Hillyer / The Natchez Democrat)

(Ben Hillyer / The Natchez Democrat)

First Lt. Aaron Whitman demonstrates how to swim across the pool while carrying a rifle. (Ben Hillyer / The Natchez Democrat)

Alcorn State University ROTC cadets spent Friday morning getting their feet wet when they took the combat water survival test at the Natchez Aquatic Center.

The survival test consists of three exercises — jump in a deep pool of water carrying a rifle and equipment without losing the equipment, jumping in a deep pool of water and being able to remove equipment under water and swimming across the length of a pool carrying a rifle and other equipment on their backs.

Cadets must pass the tests to become a lieutenant in the Army.

Friday was the first day the recruits were introduced to the test. Some of the cadets had little swimming experience and overcame their fear of the water.  If cadets do not pass the test the first time, the group will have other opportunities to take the test, including another opportunity at the Natchez Aquatics Center in the spring.

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