Frequently Asked Questions

Q - How can I help SUDS?

A - Spread the word about our program & consider making a tax deductible donation.

Q - I'm a diver, can I volunteer?

A - Currently we are fully staffed. If a position becomes available you must first become a volunteer through the American Red Cross at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. In addition you need to be an SDI Instructor & carry professional dive instructor liability insurance.

Q - How is SUDS funded?

A - We are a 501 c 3 not-for-profit organization. We are only able to operate through donations, fundraisers & grants.

Q - How do wounded warriors with these type of injuries dive?

A - Some simply use their prosthetics while others use webbed gloves for propulsion. For soldiers with lower limb injuries we use motorized underwater scooters. Weight intergrated BCD's are beneficial because we can shift the weight around to help with balance.

Q - How many injured veterans have gone through the program?

A - Over 150 wounded warriors have received scuba training at Walter Reed since February 2007.

Q - Are their any dive organizations that teach you how to train divers with disabilities?

A - Scuba Diving International (SDI) has a adaptive program called "Scubility"

Q - What is the relationship between SUDS & Disabled Sports USA / Wounded Warrior Project?

A - SUDS is a chapter of Disabled Sports USA. The Wounded Warrior Disabled Sports Project is a partnership between DSUSA, its chapters & the WWP.

Q - How much does a complete set of scuba equipment cost?

A - You can be outfitted with good quality gear for $1,500 to $2,000.

Q - What is required for an injured service member to be eligible for scuba training at Walter Reed?

A - They must be OIF/OEF under physical or occupational therapy care & medically cleared by their physician.

Q - Does it cost the Soldiers/Marines anything to be trained by SUDS?

A - No, their training is provided by volunteers & the certification trips are covered by donations to SUDS.