Techniques for Signal Communication Taught in SERE School?

Signaling with Mirrors

In SERE School, students learn the art of mirror signaling to communicate their location to potential rescuers. This involves holding a mirror at a 45-degree angle to reflect sunlight towards any aircraft within a 360-degree radius. With a mirror, students can signal their location for up to 6 miles, making it an effective way to get help. The Army’s standard procedure for mirror signaling is to reflect sunlight at 5-second intervals, repeating the signal for 30 minutes.

Radio Communication

Students in SERE School also learn the basics of radio communication, including how to operate a radio and send Morse code messages. This involves using a radio to listen for incoming transmissions and sending out distress signals using Morse code. In a typical scenario, a student might send a distress signal using the Morse code sequence “SOS” (three dots, three dashes, three dots), which is internationally recognized as a distress signal. SERE students learn to use both voice and Morse code transmissions to communicate with potential rescuers.

Whistle Signals

Another method of signaling taught in SERE School is whistle signals. Students learn to use a whistle to signal for help in a loud, sustained tone. The Army recommends using a whistle that produces a clear, high-pitched sound, such as a pea-less whistle. In a survival situation, a student might use a whistle to signal for help at 10-second intervals, repeating the signal for 30 minutes to ensure they are seen or heard. Whistle signals are a reliable way to get attention, especially in situations where visibility is poor.