Stuck in the Second O
This close encounter of the wrong kind taught me several lessons about interpersonal confrontation, and our responses to assault, at an early age.
Category: Life Lessons
Here are some few of the things I’ve learned in 6 decades of living, 4 of them as a warrior protector serving in the military and on the street. I don’t claim to be one of Odin’s ravens bearing wisdom from on high, but I do wish that we would all learn from the mistakes of the past.
A Case Study in Comorbidity
As we approached the 4th anniversary of George Floyd’s tragic and unnecessary death on 25 May 2020, pundits on opposite sides of what Lawrence Kasdan called “The Grand Canyon” still separating too many Americans of different colors rolled out the same diametrically opposed versions of the event. I was not there, but as both a law enforcement Use of Force instructor AND a 30+ year EMT, I think there are lessons here that can prevent repeating the mistakes of the past–IF we heed them.
Movement to Contact
This is about some very specific types of movement: specifically, those when contact with an armed adversary is anticipated or likely. While avoiding or breaking contact is preferred, there are times when neither of those are possible. Knowing proper movement techniques can keep you alive.
Norm the Navigator
I wish I’d gotten to know him better, while he was still around. But then, the same could be said for so many of “the greatest generation.” What I can tell you is how we met, and what little I …
Hypothermia: Lessons from SERE
This primer on cold-related illness lists both how, and how NOT, to treat hypothermia, based on some humorous experiences we had in SERE school.
What you don’t know about Domestic Violence
Domestic violence, or DV, may not seem like rocket science. An angry drunk gets off on hurting those closest to him. But our lack of understanding of the patterns and nuances of violence, particularly domestic violence, doesn’t make it go away. This article explains several aspects of DV, and legislation used to combat DV, that are little understood by most of us.
Worm was right there with us
This Desert Storm memoir outlines our relationship with our Saudi Amn counterpart, and offers both highlights and lessons learned from that tour.
Backing Up Beaker
This article is about the best moment of my law enforcement career. To understand why it was the best, you also have to know a little about the worst day of my career.
Bayonets
This posting, partially from notes I took during the Thunder Ranch Old Rifle course, briefly addresses the development of bayonets, my limited experience with them, the sad demise of bayonet training, and attempts to use the pistol as a substitute close quarters tool.
Impact vs Edged: Advantages and Disadvantages of Crenelated Flashlights
A small “tactical” flashlight can be a useful force multiplier for personal defense. It’s quicker to use and brighter than a cell phone light. It also hurts more when used for striking. Some flashlights come with crenelated bezels, essentially making them edged weapons. This article explores different use of force options, examining landmark court cases relating to the use of impact tools, and flashlights as impact tools. It also addresses some aspects of race relations as they pertain to the optics of using force.
Max and George’s Excellent Adventure: the Pros and Cons of Night Sights
This article shares lessons I’ve learned about night sights in the field. Do you need them? What are some of your options? Advantages and disadvantages of the different kinds? Read this to learn more.
What “fleeing” means–and what it doesn’t
This article clarifies a misleading statement by the media, discusses the Fleeing Felon doctrine, and ends with some advice for responsibly armed citizens.