Hand2Hand combative training course toughens Airmen Published Feb. 11, 2011 By Airman David Owsianka 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. -- A Hand2Hand Combative Training Course began Jan. 18 to teach Airmen how to fight without a weapon at the Combat PT Center. It lasts four weeks. "When I used to be a CrossFit instructor, I would teach martial arts during the cool down sessions," said Pernell Stoney, Luke Fitness Center director. Hand-to-hand began after Mr. Stoney introduced it to CrossFit participants. "After incorporating it, I was asked to begin a martial arts program," he said. "I was able to get several Marines to train Airmen to become trainers." Instructors have a specific way of teaching participants hand-to-hand combat. "During this course, participants are taught in a bit of a crawl, walk, run way," said Airman 1st Class Eric Gentry, 56th Component Maintenance Squadron avionics journeyman. "First they learn the basic movements, then how to defend and then how to attack from a defensive position." One goal of the course is to enhance the physical readiness of Airmen for combat. "I signed up because two of my Airmen who are involved pushed me into it," said Tech. Sgt. George Oakley, 56th CMS jet engine mechanic. "I expected the worst on the first day, but now I think the worst is yet to come. "I think people should participate in this course to put themselves through the rigors of the training," he said. "Not only will this course be gratifying to complete, it gives them more training in how to defend themselves." While taking part in this course, the Airmen who are involved will become prepared for hand-to-hand combat. "Airmen should not be afraid to try this course," Mr. Stoney said. "It will give Airmen a better knowledge of what to do if, while in the field, they are involved in hand-to-hand combat."