Instructors

Founder of Tactical Self Rescue.

Matthew F. Moriarty, a lifelong resident of Holyoke, Massachusetts, is a distinguished retired Captain of the Holyoke Police Department and the visionary founder of Tactical Self Rescue. With a career steeped in service, dedication, and a commitment to community safety, Matt's journey is a testament to his unwavering dedication to helping others.

Matt's roots in Holyoke run deep. Raised by his father, John, a WWII Coast Guard Veteran specializing in submarine warfare in the Atlantic, and his mother, Marie, a lifelong teacher, Matt and his siblings were instilled with a strong belief in service. This upbringing shaped Matt's path and defined his approach to life and work.

A graduate of Holyoke Catholic High School, class of ’86, Matt went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Westfield State College. Driven by a sense of duty, he enlisted in the Massachusetts Air National Guard's 104th Fighter Wing, where he served with distinction for 20 years.

Matt furthered his education by earning a Master's in Administration from Western New England College, equipping him with the skills necessary to lead and manage complex operations.

In 1994, Matt embarked on his law enforcement career as a Police Officer in Longmeadow, MA, before transferring to his hometown of Holyoke. Over nearly three decades, he amassed a wealth of experience across various areas of law enforcement, retiring as a Captain in 2023. His roles and accomplishments include:

• Patrol Officer
• Tactical Entry Team Member (ERT-Emergency Response Team)
• Basic EMT
• Firearms Instructor
• First Responder Instructor
• R.A.D. Instructor
• Commanding Officer of 
  • Training Division 
  • Patrol Division
  • School Resource Officer
  • Community Policing advocate
  • Criminal Investigation Bureau 
  • Narcotics/Vice Bureau
  • Records 
  • IT Department
  • Finance/Payroll overseer
  • Information & Press Officer (IPO)
  • Social Media Coordinator

Through Tactical Self Rescue, Matt channels his extensive knowledge and experience into an educational platform dedicated to fostering individual mental strength and resilience. His latest endeavor, a fundamental pistol class for beginners, reflects his ongoing commitment to empowering individuals with the skills and confidence needed for personal safety and preparedness.

Matt Moriarty's legacy is one of service, leadership, and an unrelenting dedication to the well-being of his community. His work continues to inspire and equip others to face challenges with strength and resilience.

David Seidel, a lifelong resident of Holyoke, Massachusetts, is a seasoned firearms instructor and dedicated law enforcement professional. Growing up on a small farm in Holyoke, David developed a deep appreciation for the outdoors and a passion for firearms. This early interest set the foundation for his future career and expertise.

Determined to pursue a career in law enforcement, David attended Westfield State College's esteemed Criminal Justice program, earning his bachelor's degree. He began his professional journey in communications within the law enforcement field before being appointed as a full-time Police Officer in 2014.

Over the past decade, David’s assignments have included:

• Patrol
• Firearms Training Unit
• Investigations
• Narcotics
• Federal Task Force Officer

In addition to his extensive law enforcement experience, David has been an active member of the firearms community for over 20 years. Working alongside Federal Firearms License holders, he has assisted and trained individuals in obtaining their pistol permits, enhancing their marksmanship skills, and selecting the proper equipment to suit their needs. Through these services, David has become proficient with multiple firearms platforms, gaining invaluable knowledge and experience.

David's qualifications and expertise include:

• ALERRT Certified Instructor for Active Shooter Response (both private and law enforcement, including academy)
• Qualified and active state firearms instructor for both private and law enforcement sectors
• Certified weapons armorer for numerous platforms
• Experience in large-scale reality-based training scenarios involving Force on Force, Tactical Medical Aid, and multi-agency coordination
• Proficiency in various facets of tactical response, CQB, asset protection, and emergency medical skills

David Seidel's passion for firearms education and his commitment to enhancing the safety and preparedness of others are evident in his approach to teaching. His extensive background and hands-on experience make him an invaluable asset to Tactical Self Rescue. David’s dedication to learning from and teaching others reflects his mission to help individuals better survive and thrive in our world.

Jay Parnell, a native of Holyoke, Massachusetts, brings a wealth of experience and dedication to his role as an instructor at Tactical Self Rescue. Born and raised in Holyoke, Jay attended Holyoke Public Schools before enlisting in the U.S. Air Force in 1992. During his thirteen years of active duty service, he served as a Security Policeman/Security Forces member, demonstrating his commitment to national security and public safety.

After leaving active duty, Jay continued his service with the Massachusetts Air National Guard, where he served as a Security Forces member and a Combat Arms Training and Maintenance (CATM) Instructor until his retirement in 2012. Throughout his twenty-year military career, Jay deployed three times in support of the Global War on Terror. As a CATM Instructor, he was responsible for training base personnel in the use of small arms to maintain mission readiness.

In 2002, Jay embarked on a parallel career in law enforcement, where he continues to serve today. His diverse experience in policing includes uniformed patrol, firearms training, and investigations. Jay is particularly proud of his work as a firearms and active shooter response instructor, where he trains both his department's officers and police recruits at the regional police academy. His dedication to preparing police recruits and veteran officers for the threats they face daily is a testament to his commitment to public safety.

Jay's qualifications and expertise include:

• ALERRT Certified Instructor in ALERRT Level I, Level II, Active Attack Integrated Response, and External Response to Active Shooter Events
• Certified state firearms instructor for law enforcement
• Certified armorer in multiple firearms platforms
• Planned and coordinated several large-scale, multi-agency, scenario-based exercises that included force on force and tactical medicine

Jay Parnell's extensive background in both military and law enforcement settings, coupled with his expertise in firearms training, makes him an invaluable asset to Tactical Self Rescue. His dedication to enhancing the skills and preparedness of those he trains ensures that individuals are better equipped to handle the challenges and threats they may encounter.
 

Jehovanie Almeyda, affectionately known as Jeho, brings a wealth of expertise and a lifelong passion for martial arts and self-defense to Tactical Self Rescue. Born in Springfield, MA, and raised in Holyoke, Jeho's journey into the world of hand-to-hand combat began under the guidance of his father, Francisco Almeyda, an avid boxing enthusiast. This early foundation sparked a lifelong dedication to learning various martial arts disciplines.

From childhood, Jeho immersed himself in the study of Karate, Judo, Muay Thai, and other martial arts, continually expanding his knowledge and honing his skills. His commitment to self-defense extends beyond personal practice; Jeho finds great joy in teaching family and friends the philosophies and tactics of self-defense.

After graduating from Holyoke High School, Jeho pursued higher education at Holyoke Community College, earning an Associate Degree in Forensic Science and Biology. This academic achievement fueled his interest in the medical field, leading him to become a Nurse’s Aide and an Elder Care Specialist. Jeho began his medical career at Holyoke Medical Center and currently contributes his expertise to O’Connell’s Care at Home.

In addition to his martial arts and medical pursuits, Jeho has a profound passion for art. He operates a graphic arts business, where his creative talents shine. Notably, Jeho designed the logos for Tactical Self Rescue and Responders Refuge, showcasing his artistic flair and dedication to the organizations.

Jeho's qualifications and experience include:

• Associate Degree in Forensic Science & Biology
• Nurse's Aide
• Home Health Aide
• Elder Care Specialist
• Injury Transfer & Prevention Specialist
• Martial Arts Training: Boxing, Karate, Judo, Muay Thai
• Graphic Artist

Jehovanie Almeyda's diverse background in martial arts, medical care, and graphic arts uniquely positions him to provide comprehensive and insightful instruction at Tactical Self Rescue. His dedication to empowering others through self-defense and safety education is evident in his personal and professional endeavors.

"I will bring my unique perspective to Tactical Self Rescue in order to teach our clients to the utmost of our abilities to ensure the safety of themselves and others."

Kyle Gribi, an esteemed instructor at Tactical Self Rescue, brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep commitment to service to his role. Born and raised in Northern California, Kyle's journey of dedication began when he enlisted in the U.S. Navy immediately after graduating high school. Trained as a Corpsman, Kyle served his country with distinction, deploying to Iraq in 2004 and 2005.

After his honorable military service, Kyle transitioned to a career in law enforcement in 2011, continuing his commitment to public service. Over the years, he has risen through the ranks, serving as a Sergeant for the past five years and currently leading as a Team Leader on the Regional SWAT Team. Kyle's expertise extends to instructing in firearms, medical response, and active shooter response for his department.

Kyle's comprehensive training and experience have led him to instruct active shooter response tactics for police, fire, EMS, and civilians on a national level. Additionally, he serves as an instructor at the regional police academy, sharing his extensive knowledge and skills with new recruits.

Kyle's qualifications include:

• State Certified Pistol, Rifle, Shotgun, and Revolver Instructor
• State Certified CPR / First Responder Instructor
• Adjunct ALERRT (Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training) Instructor
• Federal Task Force Officer
• Nationally Registered EMT

Kyle Gribi's dedication to service, both in the military and law enforcement, and his extensive expertise in firearms and emergency response make him an invaluable asset to Tactical Self Rescue. His commitment to training and preparing others ensures that individuals are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to handle critical situations effectively and safely.
 

Mark Moynihan, a native of Holyoke, Massachusetts, brings a rich background in martial arts and a dedication to service to his role as an instructor at Tactical Self Rescue. Born and raised in Holyoke, Mark graduated from Holyoke Catholic High School, Class of ’87. Driven by a desire to serve his country, he enlisted in the Massachusetts Air National Guard's 104th Fighter Wing. During his military service, Mark pursued his academic interests, earning a Bachelor of Science in Robotic Engineering from the University Without Walls at the University of Massachusetts.

Mark's fascination with martial arts began early in life and has been a significant part of his journey. He has trained in various styles, including Enshin, Kempo, Judo, Isshin-Ryu Karate, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) for over 20 years. His dedication and hard work culminated in earning a 2nd degree black belt in BJJ in 2024 from Gabriel Gladiator Santos @ the Gabriel Gladiator Training Center in West Springfield, MA. Currently, Mark instructs several BJJ classes, with a particular passion for teaching children. His expertise also extends to serving as the Combatives Instructor for the 104th Fighter Wing, where he shares his extensive knowledge with fellow servicemembers.

Professionally, Mark is employed as a Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) Engineer, specializing in Wireshark Quality of Service troubleshooting. His technical skills and problem-solving abilities complement his martial arts expertise, making him a well-rounded and versatile instructor.

Mark's qualifications include:

• Black Belt and Instructor in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
• Black Belt in Isshin-Ryu, Kempo, and Enshin Karate
• Competitor in Full Contact Karate Competitions
• Competitor in BJJ Competitions, both weight and open class
• Combatives Instructor for the 104th Fighter Wing

Mark Moynihan's dedication to martial arts, his commitment to teaching, and his extensive experience in both military and civilian roles make him an invaluable asset to Tactical Self Rescue. His passion for empowering others through self-defense and tactical training ensures that students receive the highest level of instruction and are well-prepared to face any challenges.
 

Richard began working in the mental health field in 2005 following graduating from Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts. He began work in a residential treatment facility and worked with teens and young adults supporting the treatment and the repair of long-term abuse and complex trauma. He returned to school in 2017 and completed his master’s degree in social work. Upon exiting Richard worked a job called in-home therapy for two years before he felt called to work with more traumatized individuals again and began working with crisis services. Where he worked at honing his skills in identifying and supporting those experiencing acute psychiatric trauma.

A new job was created in 2019 the roll of co-responder, and this involved continuing to respond to those in acute psychiatric trauma but alongside the police officers of the Holyoke Police Department.  Where Richard worked for three years before being promoted to run multiple teams of co-responders in other cities but continuing to work out of the Holyoke Police department. During this time, Richard further refined his skills at working with individuals that either didn’t want to participate, had acute psychiatric problems and/or were experiencing domestic violence, critical incident trauma, substance use and abuse disorders. 

In 2023 Richard opened the private outpatient services location of Responder’s Refuge where he provided much needed services to Police, Fire, EMS, and mental health responders, groups traditionally resistant to seek help due to concerns doing so would negatively impact their careers or promotional prospects.  Responders Refuge offered a location devoid of these risks and a space to seek treatment for the traumas experienced by these groups by the very nature of their job.

Richard has also assisted in the development and implementation of training offered and put on by MPTC, CIT and TTAC, as well as trainings for BHN and their local law enforcement partners. He also volunteers as a member of the Alumni Counsel for Westfield State University.

Stephen Norton, an accomplished cyber awareness expert and law enforcement professional, brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his role as an instructor at Tactical Self Rescue. Born in Boston and raised in Holyoke, Massachusetts, Stephen pursued higher education at the University of Massachusetts in Amherst, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology and a Certificate in Programming. His academic background laid a strong foundation for his future endeavors in both the scientific and technological fields.

Upon graduation, Stephen embarked on a career with a prominent chemical company, where he excelled as a Senior Research Associate in the R&D department. This role afforded him the opportunity to travel extensively, immersing himself in diverse cultures and cuisines. His fascination with crypto security and cryptocurrencies is a testament to his passion for cutting-edge technologies.

Stephen's nearly 20-year tenure with a local police department has been marked by dedication and versatility. Initially serving as a patrol officer for a decade, he was subsequently selected as a detective in the Criminal Investigations and Narcotics Vice Bureau. Currently, he is assigned to the Technical Services Bureau, where he leverages advanced technology to investigate and prosecute criminal offenses. His expertise in video surveillance systems, video enhancement, data extraction from mobile devices, social media monitoring, and gunshot detection has been instrumental in his law enforcement career.

Stephen's qualifications include:

• Video Enhancement Specialist
• Video Surveillance Systems Expert
• Certified Cellebrite Analyst
• Shot Spotter Analyst
• Social Media Team Member
• Cyber Security Specialist

Stephen's deep understanding of current and emerging technologies, combined with his extensive law enforcement experience, makes him an invaluable asset to Tactical Self Rescue. His passion for using technology to enhance personal safety and assist law enforcement drives his commitment to teaching and empowering others. Whether discussing cyber security or the latest advancements in tech, Stephen's enthusiasm and expertise ensure that his students receive top-tier instruction and practical insights for staying safe in the digital age.
 

Walber Borrego, an expert in cyber awareness and law enforcement technology, brings a diverse and extensive background to his role at Tactical Self Rescue. Born in Puerto Rico, Walber's journey took him from the Bronx, New York, to Holyoke, Massachusetts, where he has made significant contributions to both military and civilian sectors.

Walber enlisted in the U.S. Army in 2001, serving his country with distinction until 2009. As a Military Police (MP) officer, he received comprehensive training in weapons use, troop movements, convoys, law enforcement, and the detention of prisoners of war. His exemplary service earned him the rank of Sergeant, and he was deployed to Iraq from 2004 to 2006, where he gained invaluable experience in high-pressure environments.

In 2003, Walber began his parallel career in civilian law enforcement. Over his two decades of service, he has held various roles, including patrol officer and specialized instructor. He was selected as a Use of Force instructor and Taser instructor, demonstrating his expertise and commitment to officer training and safety. For the past several years, Walber has served as the Tech Services Officer, where he plays a crucial role in promoting and enhancing the police department's technological capabilities. His responsibilities include CJIS security, dispatch systems, departmental computer systems (both office and cruiser), and overall technology security.

Walber's passion for technology extends beyond his professional duties and into his daily life and hobbies. His enthusiasm and dedication to all forms of technology make him a valuable resource for Tactical Self Rescue.

Walber's qualifications include:

• Use of Force Instructor
• Taser Instructor
• Cyber Security Specialist
• Data Extraction Expert
• Communication Programming Professional
• Social Media Team Member

Walber Borrego's blend of military and law enforcement experience, coupled with his deep understanding of technology, positions him as an outstanding instructor of Cyber Awareness for Tactical Self Rescue. His dedication to improving safety through advanced technological solutions ensures that his students receive the highest level of training and preparation for today's digital challenges.