U.S. Soldiers deployed in Iraq taking scuba lessons

There are not many similarities between a hot dry war zone in the desert and the peace and tranquility of scuba diving. But a local retired soldier is helping troops make that connection every day, and is making sure soldiers have something to look forward to when they come home It’s been said that there’s nothing more peaceful than what lies below the water’s surface. But members of the Indiana National Guard Cavalry Division, based out of New Albany, find themselves spending their days baking in the desert sun and dodging enemy fire.

Crowley opened a new business in New Albany called “Diving with Chuck” this spring. Among his most loyal and dedicated diving students are those studying online, thousands of miles away in Iraq. Every week, Crowley sends new study materials, including books, magazines and DVDs. Then the soldiers discuss diving, through instant messaging.

Crowley has already taken about half-dozen men from his former unit on diving trips, between deployments and when they’re home on leave. A diving trip to Belize is being planned for when everyone makes it home next year...[WHAS11.com]