MCRP 7-20B.5 — Marine Corps Water Survival

MCRP 7-20B.5 governs Marine Corps water survival techniques, procedures, and training standards.

Search MCRP 7-20B.5

  • Publication number: MCRP 7-20B.5
  • Title: MARINE CORPS WATER SURVIVAL
  • Date: 2 May 2016
  • Proponent: 03000 Operations & Readiness
  • Status: Current

View MCRP 7-20B.5 on armypubs.army.mil


It covers survival in open water, abandoning ship, survival with a pack, life preservers, and avoiding heat loss in cold water. It teaches Marines to cross water obstacles and perform water rescues correctly and safely.

Topics covered

  • Open water survival
  • Abandoning ship
  • Survival with a pack
  • Life preservers
  • Heat loss in cold water
  • Drownproofing methods

Questions and answers

What does MCRP 7-20B.5 provide for Marine Corps water survival?

Marine Corps Reference Publication (MCRP) 8-10B.6, Marine Corps Water Survival, provides Marine Corps water survival techniques, procedures, and training standards. (paragraph 2)

When can MCRP 7-20B.5 be used as a refresher?

Once an individual or a unit has completed the MCWSPM, this publication can be used as a refresher course before water operations. (paragraph 2)

How can combat units use water in combat?

Combat units that are confident in their ability to work in and around water can use the water to their advantage in combat, and history is filled with examples of how the proper preparation or training for survival in water reduced or averted disaster. (paragraph 2)

What does MCRP 7-20B.5 say about water survival training and techniques?

LCpl Mayo’s survival is a testament not only to his incredible physical courage, but also to the soundness of the lifesaving training and techniques he received during combat water survival training. (paragraph 2)

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