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USS Boxer Conducts Non-Lethal Defense Training

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS070125-05
Release Date: 1/25/2007 3:13:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Joshua Valcarcel, USS Boxer Public Affairs

USS BOXER, At Sea (NNS) -- USS Boxer’s (LHD 4) Ship Self Defense Force (SSDF) conducted non-lethal self-defense training Jan. 18 while conducting maritime security operations (MSO) in the Persian Gulf.

SSDF members were required to complete an obstacle course after being sprayed in the eyes with pepper spray during the training evolution.

“The training was tougher than I expected,” said Aviation Ordnanceman Airman Ashley Rushworth. “But at least now I know how it feels in case I ever have to use it.”

The training is used to teach members how to use pepper spray responsibly and to give them a respect for the pain it causes. Common reactions to the powerful spray include swelling of the eyes and breathing restriction.

“I didn’t think I’d have a bad reaction, but after a few seconds my eyes and face were burning,” said Aviation Ordnanceman 3rd Class Jonathan D. Shelton, another SSDF member. “The training showed me how severe this level of force is, and it should definitely be used with caution.”

SSDF Sailors also learned ways to resist a threat in the event they are sprayed with an eye irritant themselves. After initially being sprayed, they were required to complete four obstacles. The obstacles required them to keep their eyes open while demonstrating an ability to resist an attacker and maintain control of their weapons.

“It’s important they become familiar with the effects of the spray,” said Chief Master-at-Arms Allen Andrews. “The obstacles were set up to teach them how to continue dealing with a threat.”

SSDF is Boxer’s first line of defense against threats in-port and while underway. While in-port, SSDF members provide security by patrolling the ship around-the-clock. While out to sea, they respond to internal threats and protect against shipboard seizure.

Boxer is the flagship for Boxer Expeditionary Strike Group (BOXESG) which is currently conducting MSO in support of U.S. 5th Fleet. MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. These operations deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material.

Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/Commander U.S. 5th Fleet’s area of responsibility encompasses about 7.5 million square miles and includes the Persian Gulf, Red Sea, Gulf of Oman and parts of the Indian Ocean. This expanse, comprised of 27 countries, includes three critical chokepoints at the Strait of Hormuz, the Suez Canal and the Strait of Bab al Mandeb at the southern tip of Yemen.