Uechi-ryu practitioner on the staff of the USMC Martial Arts

RACastanet · Post by **RACastanet** » Fri Jan 30, 2004 12:35 am

Hello all. It is again time to brag. My Uechi-ryu training under Bill Glasheen, enhanced by the likes of George Mattson, Raffi Derdarian, Van Canna, Roy Bedard, Jim Maloney, Evan Pantazi and all of the other karateka (too many to mention) I have met over the years as a result of the IUKF has resulted in quite an honor... appointment to the USMC Martial Arts Center of Excellence @ Quantico as a 'Subject Matter Expert'.

To visit the USMC Martial Arts website click on the following link:

https://www.tbs.usmc.mil/Pages/Martial_Arts/default.htm

At the bottom left click on 'Subject Matter Experts' and scroll down to the bottom for the latest addition to the team.

There is still much to learn and a long way to go, but soon I'll be allowed to wear the USMC Black Belt SME with my utilities.

Thank you all for the support over the last decade plus. Believe it or not, what I have learned from all of you is, in small ways at least, influencing the direction of the program.

OORAH!

Rich

Bill Glasheen · Post by **Bill Glasheen** » Fri Jan 30, 2004 3:04 am

"The few and the proud" are always there to serve when called upon to do so. Supporting you in your quest is the very least we all can do to thank those that choose to put their lives on the line for our freedom and wellbeing.

And yes, Rich, we are proud of you.

- Bill

Van Canna · Post by **Van Canna** » Fri Jan 30, 2004 3:47 am

Rich,

You have always been an inspiration and an exceptional practitioner. We should have your dedication and zest for life.

You have my respect and my best wishes.

Rick Wilson · Post by **Rick Wilson** » Fri Jan 30, 2004 7:08 am

Rich, you continue to amaze!

Post by **gmattson** » Fri Jan 30, 2004 12:02 pm

Quite an honor for you and Uechi-ryu.

Raffi Derderian · Post by **Raffi Derderian** » Fri Jan 30, 2004 4:15 pm

Hey Rich,
I am getting a little bored congratulating you yet again

Hey, no kidding I am honored to be on the list of people you are crediting. The real credit goes to you my friend.
I am also flattered that you have told me the Marines are considering using some of the knife tatics I taught you as part of their training.
Keep it up!!
Raf

Dana Sheets · Post by **Dana Sheets** » Fri Jan 30, 2004 6:36 pm

Well done! That's a wonderful achievement. Congrats.
Dana

RACastanet · Post by **RACastanet** » Sat Jan 31, 2004 12:16 am

Raffi: I have been in the program since April 2002 and have watched a number of subtle changes occur. Some techniques, like knife fighting with the strong side forward, were a no-no. Protect that knife. Now it may swing 180, a not too subtle change. We shall see.

The bottom line is that there are now windows of opportunity for improvements and changes in techniques are being considered. It is nice to hear someone say 'what is that you are doing... it looks good, let me see that again'. And to be honest, 90% of what I do came from someone in the IUKF so what people are seeing is Billy/Raffi/Georgie etc -ryu.

Rich

Sonnon · Post by **Sonnon** » Sat Jan 31, 2004 5:48 am

Congratulations

benzocaine · Post by **benzocaine** » Sat Jan 31, 2004 10:06 pm

Very cool to see a Uechi practitioner with such influence within the training camp of US marine officers.

I am sure it has not been an easy road to get where you are. Congrats.

RACastanet · Post by **RACastanet** » Sun Feb 01, 2004 4:24 am

Thanks for all of the positive responses!

Ben said: 'I am sure it has not been an easy road to get where you are.'

Yes, that is a good assessment. I got to find out just how much discomfort I can tolerate, and in doing so found out how much more our Marines can and do tolerate, which is much more than me. This time of year is particularly tough because of the weather. It is not uncommon to be out and about in the dark, wet and cold before 0500.

One major benefit though, is getting to train in nature. No smooth floors, AC, etc. Wet clothes and mud add to the experience. Those interested in reality training should head out into the woods periodically just to understand what happens to techniques outside of the sterile dojo setting.

With luck I can continue on this path for another 18 months.

Regards, Rich

Raffi Derderian · Post by **Raffi Derderian** » Sun Feb 01, 2004 3:03 pm

>>>With luck I can continue on this path for another 18 months. <<<
Sorry Rich, I ain't buyin it anymore. You've been saying that line (with different time frames) for 2 years now.

I think you are in this for the long haul.
Raf

Van Canna · Post by **Van Canna** » Sun Feb 01, 2004 4:17 pm

Those interested in reality training should head out into the woods periodically just to understand what happens to techniques outside of the sterile dojo setting.

This is what distinguishes Toyama sensei's training__ "Yagai_ Renshu" as you well know.

Jackie Olsen · Post by **Jackie Olsen** » Mon Feb 02, 2004 7:43 pm

Congratulations, Rich, the power of your experience has manifested the vision of your dream! Thanks for sharing and continued support to you on your journey...

Best,

Uechi-ryu practitioner on the staff of the USMC Martial Arts

Uechi-ryu practitioner on the staff of the USMC Martial Arts

Congratulations Rich