I think it is important for everyone to know how to swim.
I can’t imagine not knowing that. It’s more basic than driving.
There is a 4H group of kids in my area that I’m fond of. They brought some gifts for a bunch of veterans recently that really touched my heart. I just sent an email to the group leader about teaching them the basics of drownproofing. We learned drownproofing in boot camp as Marines. I swam for 45 minutes with my clothes on and used a couple of the techniques.
I was on my lunch break from work many years ago and while crossing a little creek bridge saw some officer pulling a little girl out of the water. She was blue and that memory still haunts me.
Even knowing how to swim often produces over-confidence that can get you into trouble. I remember swimming across a large pond as a kid and that was so stupid of me.
It was a required course for me in high school. Mandatory for graduation. Probably a good idea for those growing up on the great lakes.
CC
My College had a Degree requirement to pass a swim test.
Three laps and then tread water for one minute.
Many classmates had to work hard to learn to swim.
I’m sure it saved lives.
Hobart College, Geneva, New York. 1962