As part of the annual SAF training, the Marines were certified in the use of level 1 OC spray.

During level 1 OC spray qualification, SAF Marines are required to defend themselves and apprehend enemy assailants after being sprayed with the irritant.

SAF is an auxiliary force of Marines trained for events requiring heightened security on base, said Lance Cpl. Paul Muñoz-Cook, an intelligence specialist with Headquarters Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. The Marines temporarily assigned to SAF train for several months and may be activated for future needs.

The training helps the Marines develop entry-level law enforcement skills, such as securing a crime scene, properly restraining individuals, and crowd control, said Sgt. Patrick F. Rice, the staff noncommissioned officer-in-charge of the mobile training team, a part of the Provost Marshal’s Office, Marine Corps Base Camp Butler.

“We’ve taken classes on what to expect and how to react to out-of-control crowds,” said Muñoz-Cook. “The OC spray training helps us learn how to handle ourselves if we become pepper sprayed while trying to control a situation.”

After the Marines were sprayed in the eyes, they were sent through a course where they were required to apprehend individuals. In some situations, they used a baton and OC spray.

OC spray, which can induce pain, causes the Marines to focus on the discomfort they feel. The Marines had to overcome this and focus on the mission at hand.

“This is good training because we learn how to take people down in a stressful and painful situation, which is really good when it comes to protecting things like national security,” said Pfc. Julian E. James, an administrative specialist with the III MEF Adjutant’s office. “It also makes us more aware of our surroundings and the people who don’t necessarily belong.”

This training teaches Marines to have a different mindset than they would while in combat, said Rice. They become aware of the different rules they are governed by and learn how to apprehend assailants without the use of deadly force.

“SAF broadens the spectrum of controlling techniques by teaching how to restrain an individual without causing them harm,” said Rice. “They gain a lot of tools for de-escalating situations, verbal and physical restraining techniques and good communications skills.”

The Marines are taught multiple ways to approach high-stress situations and are reminded that yelling almost always worsens it, said Rice.

Each Marine Corps installation trains members of the SAF every several months, said James. They are activated if major incidents occur that require an intensified or larger security force.

“Overall, it’s a great course,” said Rice. “I wish more could have the opportunity because this gives Marines extra tools for their toolboxes.”