CN Live | Live with Craig "Sawman" Sawyer - 2/21/17

Published on February 22, 2017
Duration: 12:56

Craig Sawyer, a former Navy SEAL and Devgru operator, discusses his extensive career in special operations, federal law enforcement, and protective services. He emphasizes the importance of situational awareness and threat recognition for personal safety, advocating for proactive avoidance over reactive engagement. Sawyer also highlights the development of his 'Hard Target Training' course, designed to empower civilians with practical self-defense skills.

Quick Summary

Craig Sawyer, a former Navy SEAL and Devgru operator, emphasizes that effective personal safety involves proactive measures like situational awareness and threat recognition. His 'Hard Target Training' course teaches civilians to identify and avoid potential dangers, advocating for early disengagement over confronting threats in a shootout.

Chapters

  1. 00:08Introduction of Craig Sawyer
  2. 00:16Houston Roots
  3. 01:10Military Career: Marine Corps to Navy SEALs
  4. 01:56Devgru and Counterterrorism Operations
  5. 02:08Federal Law Enforcement & Protective Work
  6. 02:22Counter Poaching in Africa
  7. 02:45Memorable Training Mission Incident
  8. 04:07Adapting to High-Risk Environments
  9. 05:49Original Air Marshal Experience
  10. 06:35Unforgiving Air Marshal Environment
  11. 07:21Pre vs. Post 9/11 Air Marshal Program
  12. 08:21High Threat Dignitary Protection
  13. 09:17The Importance of Family Time
  14. 10:10Teaching Family Savvy and Street Smarts
  15. 10:45Introduction to Hard Target Training
  16. 11:13Firearms vs. Situational Awareness in Defense
  17. 12:12Proactive Safety Strategies

Frequently Asked Questions

What was Craig Sawyer's career path in special operations?

Craig Sawyer began in the Marine Corps, aiming for Force Recon, but transitioned to the Navy to join the SEAL Teams. He became a sniper and instructor, served in Desert Shield and Storm, and was later selected for Devgru, focusing on counter-terrorist operations.

How did the Air Marshal program change after 9/11?

Post-9/11, the Air Marshal program expanded significantly. While initially a small, highly trained unit, it grew large and bureaucratic. Management changes and a need for rapid hiring led to lowered standards and a less effective operational environment for some.

What is 'Hard Target Training' and its purpose?

'Hard Target Training,' developed by Craig Sawyer, aims to make American citizens harder targets for criminals. It focuses on practical skills like situational awareness and threat recognition, empowering individuals to avoid dangerous situations rather than solely relying on firearms.

What is the best approach to personal safety according to Craig Sawyer?

Sawyer advocates for a proactive approach to personal safety. This involves using intelligence and surveillance to be aware of situations, identifying threats early, and then defusing or disengaging from conflict to ensure a safe return home, rather than expecting to win a shootout.

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