Self Defense America of Northern Virginia

This weekend Lorie and I had the pleasure of attending the ICHF 30th Anniversary Celebration held in Chattanooga TN. I was honored by being promoted to Grandmaster in the Combat Hapkido Self Defense System by its founder - GM John Pellegrini. A very humbling experience to say the least. Never in my wildest dreams would I have thought this would happen when I started training in the arts back in the 80’s under Chuck Norris.

One doesn’t achieve this accomplishment without the support and encouragement of others. Number one is my wife who has been the “wind beneath the sail” all along. GMP, as my instructor and friend, thank you for your trust and confidence in me and my school. To my assistant instructors - Master Walt and Master Bev - thank you for your dedication along with all my Black Belts and many students! To Jerry Crawford who helped me with my training in the early days along with the support and mentorship of Masters Huff and Sherman. Wow!! I’ve been blessed.

Finally - all the glory goes to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Without Him the journey never would have started. Thanks again to all who have played a big role in this momentous achievement.

Congratulations Lisa for your promotion to First Dan In Combat Hapkido!! You had a flawless test and we are all proud of you for this momentous achievement as a self defense practitioner. You are awesome!!! Well done!!!!👏👏👏

Congratulations Dan on your promotion to Provisional Black Belt in Combat Hapkido. Your techniques and positive attitude our outstanding. Well Done!! Your tireless dedication and commitment are infectious. Well done!! 👏👏

We want to pass on congrulations for outstanding accomplishment in Combat Hapkido. Congratulations to Frank for your promotion to 4th Dan and Ray on your promotion to 3rd Dan. It is an honor having you part of our Hapkido family and most importantly your years of friendship. Well done!!!👏👏👏👏👏👏👏

Congratulations Frank on an exceptional 4th Dan test!!!!
Your techniques and ex*****on were flawless. Thank you for your years of dedication, sacrifice and commitment to learning our Combat Hapkido Self Defense System. Well done…. We are all proud of you and your achievement. 👏👏👏👏

Congratulations Dan on your Red/Black promotion. Excellent test and exceptional ex*****on of techniques. Way to go!!!👏👏👏

I want to thank all of my students and Lorie for attending today’s funeral for Maria. Even though we are all hurting we are also joyful in knowing that she is home with the Father this Christmas season. RIP Maria we miss you.❤️🙏🏻

It is with deep sadness that I need to share the loss of Maria to cancer yesterday. Maria was a ball of fire and full of life. She was tenacious, dedicated and a beautiful person to be around. Even throughout her treatments and hospitalizations she was either in class physically or zooming into class. An amazing woman who left a positive mark on this world and all she touched. We will miss your smiles, your jokes and your concern, your friendship and love for others. You now will soar with the Angels as the Father welcomes you into his kingdom. RIP Maria. 🙏🏻🙏🏻

Wishing you and your family a very Happy Thanksgiving!! As we pass the turkey, stuffing and potatoes bless take moment to thank all those who are serving our country this day - both home and abroad. Happy Thanksgiving!!

To all my fellow Vets - You are awesome!!! It has been an honor having served with you. 👏👏🇺🇸🇺🇸

Congratulations Jarrett, Ben ,Drew, Joy and Dan on your respective promotions. Excellent tests!!! Keep pressing forward and excel in your Combat Hapido journey. Well done!!!👏👏👏👏👏

Congratulation Monali on an excellent test!!! 👏👏. Best of luck at BC. Stay in touch. See you in November.