The Department of Defense has finally released a policy on the use of social media (Directive-Type Memorandum 09-026). Previously it was up to the individual services and sometimes units as to which, if any websites they would allow their personnel access to. Since Soldier Systems Daily uses a blog style, it was blocked on many military networks. So, for all of our brothers and sisters who couldn’t keep up with the latest in tactical news, we welcome you.
Recently, my friends at Protect The Force told me that they wanted to show me an extraordinary technology that was initially designed to protect women from sexual assaults but that could be used for a variety of personal protection tasks. I must admit that in my mind’s eye I formed a picture of some sort of chastity belt-like contraption. Fortunately, my imagination run wild was nowhere near the truth of the matter. Instead, I was shown the video below and it brought everything into focus.
I immediately “got it” and began running scenarios in my head where I could apply the technology. I mean who couldn’t see the potential here? It’s phenomenal. No-Contact’s technology was developed by Adam Whiton, a researcher at Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Yolita Nugent, an apparel designer. Named Conducted Energy Clothing, the concept is simple; bad guy grabs you, much to his chagrin he gets shocked, he unhands you, you fight or flight.
Now I can imagine that some of you are skeptical but they’ve been working on this for awhile. No, it won’t shock you. The wearer is insulated from the effects of the charged outer layer. Additionally, the garment features a Teflon coated waterproof layer to protect the wearer in the rain. Concerned about power requirements? Currently, the system is powered by a single 9v battery.
Remember, the system was initially designed to protect women from sexual assault. It had to be simple to use, so you wear it. Unlike firearms or blade weapons, it requires no training. Once armed, the system is passive. In fact, they are working on a variant that will allow security personnel to remotely activate someone’s CEC in the event they are unable to themselves. This would be great for VIPs and others who risk kidnapping or assault. Even in its current configuration the CEC technology is well suited for Law Enforcement, Corrections, and Security officers.
Some statistics to consider:
“Close-quarters assault from aggressors using fists and hands account for more than 80% of all total assaults faced by law enforcement officers.” Federal Bureau of Investigation 2008 Uniform Crime Report
“No Weapons were used in 74% of all violent crime incidents on civilian victims, just fists and hands. In addition offenders used a weapon in only 1% of all rapes/sexual assaults. Most often fists and hands are used to overpower and restrain the victim.” U.S. Department of Justice – Bureau of Justice Statistics, 2008
The Wounded EOD Warrior Foundation is sponsoring all you can eat wings at Lendy’s in Va Beach on March 26th from 1400-1800. In addition to the good eats, there will be a raffle with prizes awarded all through the afternoon. See below for details. Looking forward to seeing you there.
Mr. William “Bill” Ervin has just joined Protect the Force LLC as one of the organization’s Business Development Directors for CBRNE services and equipment within the First Responder market.
Mr Ervin recently retired from the US Army after 34 years of service at the rank of Master Sergeant. During the last 4 years of service Mr. Ervin, was assigned to the US Army Reserve Command, G-3, Homeland Defense Section, in Atlanta, GA, as the Logistic NCOIC. There he was responsible for accountability, purchasing, and contracting of all Homeland Defense, Commercial of the Shelf equipment. He has also served as a Logistical Instructor for the US Army Reserve and is a Vietnam and Operation Iraqi Freedom veteran.
Mr Ervin brings substantial knowledge of the military logistic system and CBRNE commercial off-the-shelf equipment. “Bill will be a great asset to our team as we expand further into the CBRNE market”, said Gary Hess, Protect the Force’s CEO.
