Monday, October 1, 2012

Striking without bullets: Frank Kearney and military combatives

Frank Kearney Image Credit: airforcetimes.com


In order to accomplish their duty as the country’s protectors, soldiers like Lt. Gen. Frank Kearney are trained in various aspects of combat. They are conditioned to become efficient killing machines, and are trained in using a large array of weapons that includes their own bodies.


In combat, there are instances when weapons are nowhere close. In cases like this, soldiers defend themselves or launch a counterattack by using the only arsenal they have left. They make good use of their bodies, converting their fists, elbows, knees, feet, and even their heads into instruments of pain and submission, with the intention of disarming or crippling the enemy. At times, hitting the right spot with the right technique can even result to a kill.

 
Frank Kearney Image Credit: aerotechnews.com


Like Lt. Gen. Frank Kearney, anyone looking to pass military school must undergo a rigorous training in combatives or hand-to-hand combat techniques. For practical reasons, the U.S. military places greater emphasis on weapon use, but learning weaponless combat remains an essential aspect of any soldier’s training.


Currently, the military uses modern combatives developed by Matt Larsen, who in 2001 established the United States Army Combatives School at Fort Benning. New soldiers typically begin their hand-to-hand combat training during the first few parts of their Initial Military Training, around the time they receive their rifle. They are taught basic options upon encountering a resisting opponent, and are expected to be able to take part in competitive bouts using the basic rules upon their graduation.

 
Frank Kearney Image Credit: tpc.dodlive.mil


The gun remains as one of the best self-defense measures. Even Bruce Lee carries one. But when the going gets tough, it doesn’t hurt to be prepared for a brawl, especially if your job puts you on the battlefield.


For more information about Lt. Gen. Frank Kearney, go to this Facebook page.

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