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.

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As we approach 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 are rolling 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.

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Posted on By Posted in Life Lessons

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.

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