Tactical Mental Training
In past “Tactical Mental Training (TMT)” posts we review real-world preparedness situations that demands situational awareness, mental conditioning, and the ability to respond under stress.
The tragedy involving Iryna Zarutska underscores this. She was attacked in a public space, surrounded by others, yet the suspect—who had 14 prior arrests and a documented history of mental illness—was able to carry out the assault without interference. This raises questions not just about transit security, but about how everyday citizens can be better equipped to recognize and respond to danger.
First spotting a threat before that treat becomes a reality. One of the best articles on this is from Greg Ellifritz called “How To Spot a Bad Guy – A Comprehensive Look at Body Language and Pre-Assault Indicators”
In this article, Ellifritz breaks down how to recognize potential threats by observing:
-Body language cues such as nervous movements, scanning behavior, and unnatural posture.
-Pre-assault indicators like target glancing, clenching fists, or adjusting clothing (often to access a weapon).
-Facial expressions and how changing your own demeanor (e.g., from fear to anger) can deter a predator.
You can read the full article HERE
Seat Selection:
If Iryna had taken a few moments to scan the inside of the car, she may have been able to pick up on some of these pre assault indicators. By picking the seat directly behind the attacker instead of in front of him, she may have been able to not only see the attack coming, but also use her feet to fend off the attack long enough for others to help.
Final Thoughts
Iryna Zarutska’s story is a painful reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of preparedness. At Boondocks FTA™, we honor her memory by continuing to educate, train, and empower individuals to be ready—not just with a firearm, but with the mindset and skills to protect themselves and others.
