IWAKUNI, Japan - The Provost Marshal’s Office finished part of its ongoing training for Auxiliary Security Forces at the IronWorks Gym sports courts here Jan. 27, 2012.
The purpose of the training was to introduce and instruct Marines in Mechanical Advantage Control Holds and take down techniques to deescalate situations.
“Hopefully, they take away the techniques they learned,” said Sgt. Kyle C. Hill, Special Reaction Team team leader.
The ASF acts as reinforcements to bolster numbers for PMO military police and the Special Reaction Team; they assist in situations when the regular numbers of PMO are not sufficient, such as in a threat con change or special event. An example of this is during Exercise Active Shield or Friendship Day in May.
Approximately 34 Marines took part in the training, which is done once every three months and involves Marines from different sections within Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron. They learn a variety of holds and techniques, including single takedowns to double takedowns. The Marines spent the morning learning the different takedowns and mechanics of the MACH training before returning to the classroom to finish for the day.
These techniques don’t only work in a official capacity during events, they can also be used in everyday life to defend one’s self.
“It’s good for Marines to have this additional training to protect themselves and de-escalate situations on their own,” said Hill.
The training the Marines received was only a fraction of what they must go through in order to be certified as ASF Marines. Along with the takedown techniques, the Marines also are scheduled to learn about riot control techniques, deadly force procedures, security procedures and searching procedures later in the month.
The Marines are also scheduled to take part in a crucial aspect of the training, being sprayed with Oleoresin Capsicum spray. This painful riot control deterrent is the one aspect of the training many Marines are reluctant to take part, but it is necessary to be qualified as an ASF Marine. Some Marines were curious as to the reputation associated with the spray.
“I wanted to see what the big deal about it was,” said Lance Cpl. Jamie L. Mateo, an H&HS maintenance air traffic controller. “I was looking forward to that part of training. I wanted to experience it for myself, say I did it and tell others about it.”
For some Marines, this was their first interaction with this particular type of training, and they were somewhat surprised at the additional responsibilities they may have. However, once it was explained to them, they were open to learning not only their respective jobs within the Marine Corps, but also the other duties the Corps may give them.
“It definitely makes sense why we need to do this type of training,” said Mateo. “You never know what you need to be prepared for.”
With Exercise Total Shield on the horizon and Friendship Day a few months away, the need for Marines to be able to handle unexpected situations is paramount to mission readiness and accomplishment.