Worldwide Kenpo Karate Association

Tribute to Joe Palanzo.

Tribute to Kenpo Grandmaster Joe Palanzo Grandmaster Joe is an original DojoTelevision song and video created in memory of Kenpo Grandmaster Joe Palanzo — a lifelong martial artist, teacher, and men...

In the end, Joe Palanzo gave his life serving his country.

After graduating from the Peabody Conservatory of Music, Joe chose to enlist in the Army so he could serve using his gift as a trumpet player. He completed a tour in Vietnam as an Army bugler with the 1st Air Cavalry Division, traveling often by helicopter and performing Reveille, Mess Call, and Taps at ceremonies and funerals—honoring fallen soldiers with precision, discipline, and respect.

In 2019, Joe was diagnosed with amyloidosis, a rare and incurable heart condition. It was later determined to be caused by exposure to Agent Orange, a toxic herbicide used during the Vietnam War to defoliate forests and jungles so enemy forces could not hide. Joe logged thousands of flight hours through sprayed areas, making that exposure the likely cause.

As his condition progressed, he kept it private. He didn’t want sympathy or special treatment—he just wanted to live with dignity and purpose.

In the end, his service didn’t stop when he came home. It cost him roughly fifteen years of his life, and he never complained.

That quiet sacrifice is part of his legacy. Here are a few snapshots Joe captured during his time in Vietnam.

Frank Trejo, Richard “Huk” Planas, and Joe Palanzo together again.

https://youtu.be/ifDcJdOpISI

Ed Parker interviewed by Joe Palanzo Interview is from the mid 1980's.

https://youtu.be/8QMFcSPKlkg

Joe Palanzo Teaching at Pikesville, MD school in early 1970's A snapshot of Joe Palanzo's Ed Parker's karate studio in early 1970's. No audio, but shows what it was like to take class back then in the golden age of kara...

The American Black Belt Academy in Massapequa Park on Long Island is looking for a full time instructor. Anyone interested in getting more information or applying should contact Tom LoVarco at 516-795-8531.