Krav Maga self-defense class open for Laughlin community Published Aug. 8, 2011 By Gaby Jimenez 47th Flying Training Wing public affairs LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Krav Maga, a self-defense class, will be taught Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7 p.m. in the Losano Fitness Center aerobics room by 2nd Lt. Benjamin Skee, 47th Operations Support Squadron. Krav Maga is an Israeli self-defense system that utilizes what U.S. Special Forces and Israeli Commandos use in combat. The class will consist of teaching hand-to-hand defense, blunt and edged weapon defense, firearm defense, situational awareness and more. "What I will be teaching concentrates mostly on self-defense against blunt weapons and the quickest way to get out of any conflict or combat situation," said Skee. The class is open to anybody ages six and up. Skee said the youngest that he has taught was a nine-year-old girl and the oldest was a 65-year-old woman. Skee has four years experience in Krav Maga and has a black belt in it. His instructor was from Israel. "Anybody that wants to learn is welcome to attend. Laughlin's mission is to train, and Krav Maga is the easiest way to learn to defend one's self. For civilians, this class would help them learn basic fighting techniques which would make them less likely victims of an assault," said Skee. Even though the classes are just beginning, Skee said there has been a good turnout rate and new people show up each week. "I didn't really know what it was at first, but I decided to try it since it was something new and it actually worked out really well for me. It is definitely a good experience," said 1st Lt. Josh Radford, 47th OSS. Skee said Krav Maga can be beneficial for both boys and girls. So far the class has about an even number of both. "I've never done anything like this before and it was great! The instructor was very thorough and explained really well, and it's definitely a class I'm going to continue attending," said 2nd Lt. Amanda Thorsen, 47th OSS. For additional information on Krav Maga, contact the Losano Fitness Center at (830) 298-5251.