Marines Take Very Painful Course

[unhappycamper]

Marines Take Very Painful Course
February 18, 2009
Marine Corps News|by Cpl. Jacob H. Harrer

WASHINGTON — On a crisp day, Marines laughed as they practiced takedowns and holds on each other on the athletic field of Marine Barracks in preparation for a training exercise. One hour later, laughter would turn to tears as the Marines were sprayed with one of the most potent non-lethal chemical agents used by law enforcement.

Marines from Marine Barracks Washington and Marine Security Guard School qualified as instructors for the use of OC spray, or oleoresin capsicum.

“The purpose of this training is to teach us how to employ OC in an effective manner,” said Cpl. Flynn Dillard, corporal of the guard. “It’s important that we realize the consequences of using it on somebody, and we have an idea of how that person will react.”

While OC spray training is mandatory for Marines who serve in any of the three security companies of the Barracks, ceremonial marchers also participated in the qualification.

Bravo Company sent five Marines to become instructors in order to qualify the entire company for the use of OC spray, said Staff Sgt. Samuel Bass, 1st platoon sergeant, Bravo Company. As a secondary mission, ceremonial marchers must be prepared to conduct riot control. Bravo Company plans to become the first of the ceremonial marching companies to become proficient in the use of OC spray.


Rest of article at: http://www.military.com/news/article/marine-corps-news/marines-take-very-painful-course.html

[nykym]

1. Sounds like a good idea

It should be mandatory for law enforcement also. It just might temper their judgment in a situation.