In HS I started with the martial arts. I guess however it really started when I certified as a (NAUI) "Basic SCUBA Diver" at 13 years old (yes it was awhile ago). It turned out that my instructor held credentials that I will just say were/are quite impressive. (For his privacy I won't give exact details). Lets just say it includes federal agent status as well a 'former' SEAL (not they are ever "former"). It turns out that he also taught for an Explorer Post (the division of scouting from 14-18 years old). I became interested in the Post and got CPR/ First Aid/ Canoeing/ Lifeguard (then known as ALS) (back when WSI still existed)....I also certified in advanced SCUBA. I think it was "Advanced Open Water" but I don't remember exactly. Advanced SCUBA continued....Night Diver/ Deep Diver/ Swift Water Diver/ Wreck Diver/ Hunting and Collecting/ Search and Recovery......All of the instructors were 'brutal' to us....and it made us excellent 'students'. Their instruction has literally saved my rear end on more than one occassion. I never stop thanking them (I'm not in touch with them anymore but it doesn't stop me from thanking them...) They were the start of my always having what I needed on hand...of being prepared (no I wasn't a boyscout and the post was not run as a troop--it was run the way a post should be run...the 'kids' ran it) That also taught me to be a better person.

From there I went to College in Long Island and certified as an Ocean Water Lifeguard (Atlantic Ocean). At the same time I became a certified NYS EMT. After College I returned home and Certified as NYC Paramedic. Through all of it.....I was always prepared to take care of myself. While back home in the 'city' I certified as a firearms instructor. Again from a 'ruthless' instructor who demanded you give the best. Home firearms safety, Pistol, rifle and Shotgun/high power disciplines. I help to teach JROTC and did some instruction at several military ranges (Ft. Dix, NYS Armory, Navy Weapons Depot).