Controversy seems to follow the Navy SEALs, the most recent of which is that of the combat utility associated with training in Mixed Martial Arts verses Close Quarter Defense. And aside from the merits of these two skill sets is the question of impropriety associated with those on active service or recently retired from active service who may profit from the choice between MMA or CQD. I have worked with Duane Dieter, the founder and owner of the CQD system. His training as served SEALs well for several decades; it’s cost effective, efficient, and provides a special operator a useful behind-the-gun skill set that can be mastered in a short period of time. But is it outdated, as MMA proponents like Tim Kennedy (see the link below) contend? Is it worth the cost in training time and money associated with more expensive and intricate training in MMA? I met Tim Kennedy when he was going through the Army Special Forces Q-Course at Fort Bragg; he is veteran Army Special Forces operator and a ranked UFC fighter. His opinion is a valued one.
As for this (dated) veteran’s take on one or the other, I would like to see our special operators as focused and passionate on foreign-language training as they are on this ancillary, supportive, but important combat skill.
