By Matt Wilson

For the FCT

A self-defense program geared toward females will be hosted Sept. 18 at the Russellville High School Auditorium from 9:15-10:30 a.m. Admission for the event is free.

The event will be presented by Patrick Sergott, the president and CEO of The Protection Institute. Sergott is a retired United States Marine and a former Chief of Police and has his Master’s degree in Criminal Justice. Sergott is currently pursuing his Doctorate in Strategic Security.

Cassie Medley, executive director of the Franklin County Chamber of Commerce, said the event is aimed at educating females in the county on how to protect themselves.

“This event is geared toward females,” Medley said.

“We have invited all the high school females from around the county and any women from the area are welcome to come as well.”

Medley said the idea for the event came from Sergott being involved with school systems and speaking with local state representatives.

“Mr. Sergott had worked with school systems in the past,” Medley said.

“The idea for the event came together indirectly and through Sergott talking with State Rep. Johnny Mack Morrow. As I understand it, the two wanted to work together and put this event on.”

Medley said she hopes the event helps people learn basic skills for staying safe.

“I would like for those in attendance to come away with some important skills and skills that can help them protect themselves if they ever need to,” Medley said.

“I would like for them to learn to be cautious and to be personally aware, but also to learn some techniques to protect and defend themselves if they ever have to.”

Medley said although the event is geared toward females, they won’t turn away any males that would be interested in attending.

Sergott is the current Senior Lead Instructor and Subject Matter Expert for multiple Department of State Office of Anti-Terrorism Assistance disciplines and has managed and directed multi-million dollar accounts for an international security operations company.