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CES members receive hands-on training
VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Using training they received from the Army, select members of the 30th Civil Engineer Squadron have designed a program to teach their squadron, and hopefully the base, a hand-to-hand combatives training course.
The combat training resembles the Modern Army Combatives Program, which was founded by the Army's 2nd Ranger Battalion in 1995, and has now been incorporated into the Army's core tasks as a requirement for all Army platoons. Although, it is currently not a requirement for the Air Force, the 30th CES has found during recent deployment it is a necessity.
"Our squadron's Airmen deploy with the Army most of the time," said Staff Sgt. Marcos Silva, a MACP trainer and 30th CES member. "It's important to have the same training as the Army to ensure that we are on the same level."
The 30th CES members proficient in the MACP training have begun to share their knowledge with their squadron during morning physical training sessions. Members of the squadron attend the training four times a month in accordance with their deployment tempo band and training schedule.
"We have had a lot of positive feedback from the members that have attended the training," said Sergeant Silva. "It's fun, easy to learn and builds confidence in those who participate."
Now, with a training schedule devised for the squadron, Sergeant Silva has set his sights on getting the training approved to teach base-wide.
"Our number one issue right now, is that we don't have a facility large enough," said Sergeant Silva. "We are currently trying to get approval for a building to use for the training."
Once approved, the 30th CES will work on renovating the building and fundraising to support the need for purchasing the numerous items that will be needed. To ensure safety during the training, the facility will need to furnish wrestling mats; heavy weight and speed bags; and personal protective equipment, said Sergeant Silva.
"We have seen interest expressed from various squadrons around the base and we are hopeful that we will be able to get the program up and running," said Sergeant Silva. "We are so thankful to the leadership and everyone that has been backing this program; I hope they know how much we have appreciated it."