The ATW Program

The Anti-Terrorist Watch Program will have two parallel tracks to attract as many members as possible. Plans are under way to offer both programs in March and April 2009. For more information, click here.

• The first track is the counter-terrorism track.

1. Geared to information, intelligence gathering, and instruction for combating terrorism.
2. The track consists of six modules or classes that stand alone but more useful if taken together and/or in sequence.
3. Emphasis is on issues of law enforcement, terrorist activity, and self-protection.
4. Self-protection aspects will focus on unarmed self-defense and armed self-defense.
5. One module will include live-fire and explosives training at a range.
6. Family and community counter-terrorism training will focus in the safety of the neighborhood in a terrorist attack.
7. Emphasis is upon completing all modules and all within six months (one module per month).
8. ATW members successfully completing all six modules will be designated "Anti-Terrorist Warriors".
9. Anti-Terrorist Warriors will receive a certificate and identification card signifying completion of ATW course.
10. ATW members will receive a monthly newsletter, invitations to special events, and program discounts.
11. Membership in ATW will carry a nominal membership subscription.
12. ATW is designed for the mature student within USSD, but outside individuals may be accepted if approved.

• The second track of ATW is Disaster Preparedness Watch (DPW).

1. Enrollees trained to prepare self, family, neighborhood, and community for disasters.
2. Disasters can be natural, explosion, chemical, or terrorist in origin.
3. Disaster preparedness emphasizes self-reliance and anticipates no outside help for up to 72 hours.
4. DPW originates within USSD but anticipates a much broader community appeal.
5. Two modules are planned: (1) A four-hour block of instruction in survival for self, family, and neighborhood, (2) A more comprehensive weekend experience built upon CERT training with community emphasis.
6. The second module has national CERT certification and is FEMA approved. Both modules will receive certification and special recognition from USSD.
7. Each module will have a tuition fee and opportunity to purchase specially designed gear through Bushido.
8. Opportunities for advanced training in communications, medical techniques, and educational credit will follow.

ATW focuses primarily on USSD; DPW seeks wider community involvement, especially families. All programs are designed with law enforcement collaboration and approval. In many instances programs will be presented by law enforcement. USSD is taking the lead in providing these educational opportunities. Students will have the chance to improve skills and provide community safety. USSD will increase its community visibility, attract new students, and stimulate interest in activities at every USSD location.