Specialties
DF6 Defense Academy – Empowering You To Protect Yourself With Cutting-Edge Self-Defense Training, Where Neuroscience Meets Self-Defense for Unmatched Results. At DF6 Defense Academy, we don’t just teach you how to throw punches or perform grappling techniques. We’re revolutionizing the way you learn self-defense by combining cutting-edge martial arts techniques with neuroscience. Our scientifically backed approach enhances how your brain processes danger, strengthens decision-making under pressure, and improves your reflexes, making you not only stronger physically but smarter and more confident in real-world situations. Whether you're a beginner looking to learn the basics or an advanced practitioner seeking to take your self-defense to ...
History
Established in 2022.
DF6 Defense Academy, established in Metairie by Gerard Doris, empowers individuals and strengthens our community with self-defense and firearms training. With 20+ years as a U.S. Navy Master‑at‑Arms and Department of Defense service, Gerard’s passion shaped DF6’s mission: sharing knowledge, inspiring confidence, and protecting the vulnerable. DF6 offers Krav Maga, women’s self‑defense workshops, anti‑bullying classes for kids, and firearms safety courses. Reviews praise Gerard’s patient, hands‑on instruction and welcoming environment. As part of our outreach, we provide free self‑defense classes for domestic violence survivors and partner with schools and organizations to promote situational awareness and conflict resolution. Our goal is to build resilience in neighborhoods by equipping teens, adults, and seniors with practical skills and community support.
Meet the Business Owner: Gerard D.
Gerard's over 20 years of experience in firearms and self-defense training, as well as his numerous firearms certifications and training in Krav Maga, Taekwondo, Kali, Escrima, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, have established him as an industry expert. His expertise is often sought after, making him a trusted figure in the field.
Gerard joined the United States Navy at 17, spending eight years as a Master-At-Arms performing Anti-Terrorism and Counter-Drug Operations in South America. During his eight years in the U.S. Navy, Gerard was part of a joint special operations team and a firearms instructor.
As an instructor, Gerard has taught hundreds of students at various skill levels. In addition to firearms training, he has taught room/building clearing and led multiple breaching courses. Gerard taught various organizations in the private sector, providing training for service members, law enforcement, and everyday Americans.