I have been known to be really stupid when it comes to protecting my family and friends.

I once confronted 5 burly drunk cowboys because they clearly intentionally nearly hit my friend when we were walking down the street.  They came back.  Started talking crap and were clearly looking for a fight.

I handed my friend and his brother my stuff and went to stand in front of them as 5 of them piled out of the car and I'd say 3 out of 5 of them were my size or larger.  The other 2 might have been a little shorter but were in good shape.  They were all athletes and I was not.

If they had seen what was going on in my mind though they would have pissed themselves.  What I was thinking scares me.  It is partially why I don't drink or take drugs... I never need my inhibitions to go away.  That could be very bad.

Anyway... I got lucky.  The biggest one in the back said "***Deva is that you?***"

Then said "***Ahh man, I'm sorry I didn't know it was you. We were out looking for a fight.***"

I shook his hand and left.  It was a guy I graduated from high school with.

When it comes to protecting family and friends I can be quite stupid and fearless.

The stuff going through my head was how I could possibly take out 5 guys and provided I made it that far I was thinking where the nearest pay phone was so I could call an ambulance (*yes, it was before cell phones*).

EDIT: I think that was shortly before (*though could have been after*) the big guy that recognized me joined the Marines.

So to answer your question. It is highly likely I'd always protect family and friends over myself even if they are completely capable of dealing with the situation themselves.