I recently had someone try to mug me using the direct approach mentioned above...I was leaving an ATM at night on the way to my car, I kept walking and kept the guy engaged in conversation, he didn't actually start the whole give me your wallet thing until I was in my car with the engine started. I ...

I went throught boot camp at Paris Island 10 years ago and I still remember those sand fleas.
Good luck, I'm sure you'll enjoy it.

Semper Fi!