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The 435th Security Forces Squadron hosted a Krav Maga training course Aug. 1 through 8 on Ramstein. This is the third year they’ve organized the event.
The weeklong course was modified from a basic self-defense system of redirecting, controlling and attacking.
“When under attack, people tend to lose the ability to use cognitive reasoning,” said Michael Davis, Krav Maga instructor. “Not only will they learn these basic principles that turn into a life-saving system, but they will be learning the basic techniques under stress.”
Even though a majority of the 26 students who took part in the course were security forces members and are familiar with self-defense, many of them gained something from the course.
“I think it’s amazing to learn new tactics to be able to defend yourself against an attack,” said Master Sgt. Anthony Sanchez, 569th U.S. Forces Police Squadron NCO in charge of training. “It’s a useful tool to not only protect yourself, but it’s great to get this training so that we can pass it down to other members.”
Students spent the week pushing themselves even when exhaustion hit its peak, sweating through the exercises and learning the techniques. Not all the Airmen participating were defenders; other service members from different jobs attended as well.
“I think that we have a responsibility to provide our teammates with the tools to defend themselves physically and mentally,” said Master Sgt. Mark Tilsher, 86th Force Support Squadron Ramstein Airman Leadership School commandant. “If Airmen have the tools to defend themselves, they’re more likely to stand up when they see something they know isn’t right, which is ultimately what we ask them to do — be good bystanders.”
This type of training empowers the class to protect themselves and to be good wingmen. Once you take away that fear of being attacked, the Airman’s potential is unlimited, Tilsher said.
Airmen interested in participating in future courses should contact the 435 SFS.
