SWAT Team:Getting Ready for a Rescue

Lt. Thomas Hamilton, Lexington SWAT

The Lexington County SWAT team is sharpening their skills in a way they never have before.

“We’re teaching our operators to get comfortable and learn the skills of how to jump out of a helicopter or a boat and into the water, and move up quickly and quietly without being noticed,” said Lexington County Lt. Thomas Hamilton.

SWAT team members could be seen dropping out of helicopters or jumping out of boats into the lake Wednesday. They spent 15 hours taking part in the waterborne operations training class.

“I’m a little winded, but the adrenaline rush has got me going pretty good,” said Christian Smith.

It’s all brand new to most everyone on the SWAT team.

“I was nervous about the helicopter at first, but jumping into the water was nothing,” said Smith.

Since Lake Murray is such a big part of the county, Smith says they’re making sure they’re prepared for any circumstance where they might have to get in the water.

Christian Smith, Lexington County SWAT

“The need for anything at any moment could arise, and we need to be ready. Twenty years ago we never had to worry about someone going into a high school and shooting it up, but now that’s something we have to worry about. Just like someone taking a hostage on an island,” said Smith.

Nothing like that has ever happened out on Lake Murray, but it’s not to say it never will. “We had a lot of fun. It’s training we needed to do. As a SWAT team and sheriff’s department we want to be ready for any and all chances that may arise,” said Smith.

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