Nine conscripts face ordeal during amphibious landing exercise at Uudenmaan Brigade in Dragsvik, Finland

On October 10, 2023, nine conscripts nearly drowned during an amphibious landing exercise at the Uudenmaan Brigade’s coastal jaeger course in Dragsvik, Tammisaari. Known as the Barettimarssi, the exercise had concluded, but the participants faced unexpected challenges while disembarking from a boat. Edith Brännbacka, one of the conscripts, was hospitalized for 16 days after being resuscitated.

Reflecting on the incident, Brännbacka stated, “I am grateful. The accident turned my life upside down, forcing me to find new ways to move forward.” Although she faced significant challenges, including a moment of chaotic confusion when conscripts jumped into water deeper than anticipated, she emphasized the importance of safety in future exercises.

The mishap occurred after the boat struck an underwater obstacle, leading to the conscripts jumping into water that was at least 1.8 meters deep, with a muddy bottom. Many had little sleep prior to the incident, resulting in fatigue that may have contributed to the challenges faced during the exercise.

Brännbacka lost consciousness underwater and was “out” for about ten minutes. She described the moment of disorientation before being rescued and taken by helicopter to Meilahti Hospital in Helsinki, where she remained in a medically induced coma for precautionary reasons against brain injuries.

Having recovered over the year, she recently began studying to become a fitness instructor in Helsinki. While she initially considered a career in policing or peacekeeping, she acknowledges her stance on the military as one of gratitude. Despite the harrowing experience, she said she would likely participate in the Barettimarssi again if asked, highlighting her positive memories of the Uudenmaan Brigade.