MEDIA CONTEST: 116th Security Forces Squadron offers self-defense classes

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  • Category Q Feature 7
ACC MEDIA CONTEST --  The sun has gone down, it's seems darker then normal as you notice a flickering light on its last leg. You see no trace of another human being in the cavernous parking garage. Walking to your car, keys in hand, you hit the unlock button. The car lights flash briefly accompanied by that familiar beeping sound. This catches the attention of a predator -- not a wild animal, but a predator far worse -- one that preys on the unprepared.

The predator could be a carjacker, a rapist, a robber or a deviant who gets their kicks from attacking the weak. Being prepared is the key in this situation, According to Mr. Toafa Tuionuu.

The 116th Air Control Wing Security Forces Squadron Training Administrator says it could happen anywhere - from mall and theatre parking lots to dance clubs. To stay in control, always "Be aware of your environment."

Mr. Tuionuu, known as "Tui" around the squadron, offers self-defense classes to anyone on base who wants to learn.

"We will set up classes for people based on their experience and what they want to get out of it," said the 3rd degree Shoto Kan black belt.

Living in a nation where more than 1,300,000 violent crimes occurred in 2004, it's easy to see why it's important to know self-defense - Especially military wives, whose better halves are serving overseas.

"Military spouses are now beginning to realize that deployments are part of their lives," Mr. Tui said. "Many times women have to take the role of mother, father and protector of the family."

The instructor teaches students a variety of holds, pressure points and joint manipulation in order to defend themselves.

"We teach basic defense techniques geared for the average person," he said "These techniques are used to get compliance from the attacker."

Eight available instructors in the security forces squadron have various martial arts backgrounds and are qualified to teach self-defense.

"Any instructor has to be qualified by the Department of Defense," said Mr. Tuionuu.

"All instructors in the military are trained the same way, as far as non-lethal weapons go.
With more than 30 years of experience, 26 of them as an Air Force cop, Mr. Tui doesn't take instructing lightly.

"If you ask anyone in the squadron, they'll tell you I'm serious about training," said Mr. Tui. "If you come to class and slack off, you get to be my partner - and you don't want to be my partner."

The once wannabe-veterinarian, devotes many unpaid hours teaching these classes, and for him, it's a thrill to help someone defend him or herself and their family.

"Through this class, I gained a lot of confidence," said Heather McCullough, wife of Lt. Col. Dan McCullough, 116th SFS commander. "I'll be better prepared to react [in a threatening situation]."

Wife of currently deployed Master Sgt. Bill Greenway, Leann, attended a self-defense class with her 10- and 14 year-old daughters, Kimberley and Elizabeth.

"An attack could happen in your driveway, "said Mrs. Greenway. "I want my daughters to have the 'edge' -- to never be victims."

Tech Sgt. Ken McKibben, a traditional Guardsman in the security forces squadron, says everyone should prepare for the real thing.

"Be prepared for what you may come in contact with," said Sergeant McKibben who works as information technology project manager in the civilian sector. "If you don't practice for the real thing, you won't know how to react."