Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C. -- Volunteers with the Navy Marine Corps Relief Society practiced self-defense techniques during a class hosted by representatives from Premier Martial Arts here, June 10.

During the class, volunteers were taught how to execute self-defense techniques, the importance of being able to defend themselves and which techniques would be most useful in an unexpected challenge that may arise.

“The purpose of self-defense classes is to spread awareness and provide knowledge on ways people can protect themselves when a situation arises, when all they have is themselves,” said Ryuji.

Williams, the manager and chief instructor of Premier Martial Arts, a local martial arts organization that incorporates Krav Maga, kickboxing, submission grappling and kali into a realistic personal protection and fitness system. “Knowing how to protect yourself and being confident no matter what situation you’re in is vital when it comes to protecting you or family members.”

The volunteers learned potential life-saving moves during the period of instruction like counter defense techniques for a bear hug, rear choke and choke from the front.

“One of those techniques are effective in basic situations and I feel like anyone, particularly women, would be able to use the self-defense moves and be able to successfully get away and get help,” said Williams.

Kendra K. Colon, a participant in the self-defense class and volunteer for the NMCRS said this is the first time the volunteers have engaged in an activity of this sort.

“It was great,” said Colon. “I think it was a good opportunity to learn so that we are prepared for whatever might happen.”

Although Colon has not been put in a situation where she has needed to use self-defense techniques she feels this is a good opportunity for women to learn how to get out of tough situations.

“You never know when you are going to be put in that type of situation so it’s always good to know basic self-defense,” said Colon.