Target-hardening class teaches self-defense, empowerment Published March 21, 2012 By Joe B. Wiles 71st Flying Training Wing Public Affairs VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Thirteen women here are no longer weak targets, thanks to instruction received during a Target Hardening Self-Defense class March 12 in the gym. Sponsored by the Sexual Assault Response Coordinator office, the class was taught by Maj. Christine Tolbert and 1st Lt. Gusty Holmberg. "The goal is to be able to respond if attacked, and to survive," said Tolbert, with the 71st Medical Support Squadron. Both instructors emphasized that the most important thing is to survive. This is the third female class they have led. "During the class, we show them how to defend themselves so they are not weak targets," said Holmberg, who is assigned to the 71st Force Support Squadron. Using a combination of pads and two realistic upper-torso training dummies, the instructors led the class through basic strikes and a variety of escape moves. "We can't make them martial artists," said Holmberg. "But we can teach them some moves so they feel more empowered, so they can show they are not afraid." Among the 13 class members were three mother-daughter teams. The SARC plans to host another self-defense class April 17. Space is limited. For more information and to RSVP, call 213-5598.