Masters Thesis

“My life’s struggles and how it led to a master’s degree.”

(Pinnacle of karate and how it helped my life evolved)

Timothy L. Kerofsky

Regina University Palma

ART546

Professor Johansson

15 May 2013

          During my life I have dealt with many struggles. I have never dreamed, however, that it would lead to a master’s degree. This I would say is my greatest accomplishment. Not even marriage and falling in love compares to what I went through to achieve a master’s in college. The hardship I endured was overwhelming. I believe it is a curse in my family to have overwhelming struggles. As I reflect upon it.

            Let me start from the beginning of my life. Picture this part of the story as I tell it. On a rainy April morning a town was flooded, the rain was falling in sheets, and the wind was gusting at a fifteen to twenty miles per hour. A past due pregnant women expecting twins is home alone while her husband is at work at the Blue Star Tool Company. All of the sudden her water breaks and she rushes out the door trying to scream over the loud wind. The neighbor sees her and rushes her at the Moline Public Hospital, where at 4:37 AM on April 3^rd, 1965 a baby boy and a baby girl; fraternal twins were born. The baby boy was me, and the baby girl was my sister Theresa. We are not that close of twins though. We were as toddlers and children, but not as teens and adults.

When I was a child I was always told what I cannot do, but not what I can do. This started the struggles I endured in my life. It pains me to think that oh how I loved my father, yet I have never been truly encouraged by him. He was temperamental, very strict, and my sisters and I feared him.

            I did not like the lack of temperament of my father, so I listened to the humor of my Grandfather. My Grandfather Francis Inch was a very humorous man. He was also a very spiritual man. He was a Master Mason to the thirty third degree.

            To talk about my Grandfather and how his life inspired mine I would have to start from the beginning of his life. In doing so it will form the basis of what my life has become. I wish I could say my father had the most influence on my life, but it is just not so. My mom and I, though, are really close. I feel that is because of the positive influence she instilled and still instills upon me. My grandfather was a positive influence in reading this you will agree on why he influenced my life as such. Picture the next story in your mind as I tell it with the birth of my great grandmother.

On a cold bliss September day in the small country town of Rock Island Illinois a young woman name Emma Browne, who just arrived a few months earlier from her homeland of England, is struggling running her small restaurant named “Brownies”. She should not have been working since she is past due in her pregnancy. She had no choice since she had no husband to support her. He died in a ground attack in World War I.  She wants her children to grow up with opportunities that she did not have. Suddenly her water broke and her friend rushes her to the Rock County Hospital. At 3:13 AM on that date of September 6^th, 1917 a baby boy is born. That baby grows up to be one of the funniest, most inspiring men that ever lived. The name of Francis Warren Inch Senior will live in all the people he has touched hearts forever. He truly was a great man. Here is the story of his life.

            He attends Longfellow Elementary School in Rock Island Illinois. He then goes on to Rocky High School while there he gets a fascination with wood working and makes toys for the poor neighbor kids around the community. In 1936 my grandfather graduates. He starts work at the Sash and Door Works Company shortly after graduation. There he made sashes for $.30 cents an hour. He marries my Grandmother Evelyn (McCauley) on September 2^nd, 1937 at the First Methodist Church in Rock Island Illinois. My Grandmother Evelyn Inch told me that: “We spent our happiest times together down by the piers watching the ferries, sharing a bag a peanuts, and drinking a bottle of Pepsi Cola.” My grandfather bought a blue 1939 Chevy Business Coop for them to get around easier after their first child Francis Warren Inch the Second is born. They go on to have three more children: Sharon Joann (my mother), Terry, and Nancy. He then builds a bench for the children to sit on in the back of the business coop.

            In 1940 my grandfather gets a good job working at the carpenter shop at the Rock Island Arsenal. He makes ‘target mount spindles’ until the United States goes to war in 1942. He gets drafted in the United States Navy. While in the Navy he holds the rank of a Carpenters Mate 3^rd Class. He worked in the Naval Station Great Lakes Carpenter Shop making toys for war torn children. In 1943 he joins the Great Lakes Navy Football Team and plays as the first string running back. After getting tackled and banged up a lot he decides that football is not his sport, so he gets a fascination with baseball. In 1944 his Navy duties ended and he returns home to Rock Island Illinois. He immediately gets his job back at the Rock Island Arsenal and is promoted to Mail and Records Clerk. 

            In 1945 my grandfather joined the Rock Island Arsenal Baseball Team as a catcher. He found a love of baseball. He plays baseball for them for 35 years. In 1950 my grandfather is promoted again to Stock Supply Supervisor. His primary duties were to order millions of dollars worth of parts for hozer guns, maintain the stock records, and to count the monies.           

Upon his retirement my grandfather and grandmother took up ball room dancing. They danced their way to Arizona where they lived for three years. Then they moved to Mission Texas. Every summer they would come back to their home in Rock Island Illinois to live and every winter go back to there home in Mission Texas.

            This is the history of my Grandfathers life, but this I not the main story about him. The main story about him was his service to the Masons. He decided to join the Masons in 1961 when he was invited by a friend of his to play a card game called euchre at the lodge. It was not until the Napoleonic Era that Euchre was introduced to America. It is a popular game in the United States Navy. This became one of the five things my grandfather loved. They were: dedication to his family, serving as a Mason, playing euchre, playing baseball, and telling jokes.

            Everyone that knew my grandfather would laugh at his jokes. He was very outgoing, always smiled, and had a good way with people. This is what made him such a great person. He had such an inspiration on me that I try to follow in his footsteps. When my dad would tell me that I could not do something, my grandfather would uplift me. My grandfather taught me to bat a baseball, to build a project in woodshop, and lots of jokes to tell my friends. He still inspires my life now when I always try to be outgoing and friendly to others. I joined the Navy to honor him and all he did for me. My grandfather was honored to attend my graduation from Navy boot camp. While I was in my grandmother and him came to visit me on the Battleship New Jersey BB-62 before I left for my first deployment overseas. I asked him to be the best man at my wedding and he honorary accepted. My grandfather was the man of honor at my Navy Retirement Ceremony. To further follow in his footsteps I am planning on joining the Masons.

            Masons have a long history and my grandfather was proud to be part of that history. There are thirty two degrees of the Scottish Rite of Masonry. My grandfather had to work hard to go up through the Mason Ranks. He would study diligently every night, but at the same time he would make time for his family as they listened to “The Lone Ranger” on the radio or watch “Red Button” on television. In 1968 my grandfather reached the highest rank of Masons entitled: “Worshipful Master”.

            I was very sad for me when my grandfather died. He passed away on February 19^th, 2008. He was 90 years old. I know even in his death he is guiding me today.

            He led me to become the man I am today. It led me to take life very serious, yet at the same time to be humorous. It led me to find my own path. One that was full of struggles, yet I learned much from.

            My fear of life and hardships began at home with my father. I will reiterate more on this in detail. As I reflect back I recall fearing my dad, one incident in particular that stands out in my mind is: One day when I came home from school and my father was having another cussing spree. This was not uncommon at our house. What made this one stand out in my mind is that he was destroying a window shade; bending the rod over his leg. The fierceness to me as a little boy witnessing this scared me. I wondered in my mind what would happen if I was bad. My dad could break my bones. He could break my back over his knee.

            Another incident that stands out is when I was a teenager. I came home and he was kicking the washing machine. There was a new part that did not work and he was trying to break it off. I felt that these incidents set a bad example for me as a child growing up. Ironically, today he helps others. Kind-of-what I do.

            He helps others in his make-shift business called, “Mike’s Maintenance”. He builds parts to make new things fit into old homes. For an example new stoves do not have a venting system that fit with the venting system that is installed in an old home. My father will make a part to attach the two. This is basically what he does now.

            What I do now are many things. My main passion is working with children. So I therefore do what I can to volunteer my time working with them. I do one on one tutoring with The Literacy Connection. I tutor reading comprehension and math to a child named Iman. It is such a joy to me when she comprehends something for the first time.

            Another volunteer activity I do is working with the United States Naval Sea Cadet Core. I am a Lieutenant. I am an assigned training officer. My main job is to write training lectures, verify records, and conduct training. This keeps me busy along with my other volunteer activities.

            Other volunteer activities I do are through my church. I help my wife run the food pantry, I help with the soup kitchens by preparing soup, I teach an art class to children on Sunday mornings, and I sing with the choir. Our church; the Bethel Wesley United Methodist Church does much for the community and I am proud to be part of that.

It is a very integrated part of my life to be guided by such a church.

            My pastor is going through a lot in her life as well. Her son was injured fighting for our country while in Afghanistan. He lost a leg and is still going through much rehab. He is getting a home from the Wounded Warriors Project. It is much deserved. In spite of all of this she wants to continue to be the pastor of our church and community. That shows her dedication. She is truly an inspiration.

            My other true inspiration is my mother. We have been close. I guess you can say, I was a mammas boy. Wherever my mom went I would follow. When she went to the store I went with her. My youngest sister, Tammy, was around my dad a lot. My twin sister, Theresa, usually did her own thing. As far as me; I was pretty much a loner.

            This is particularly true while I was in school. In a way it was a blessing, since I was a slow learner. I was in a special needs class for my first four years of school. I was picked on and made fun of because I talked funny, and had difficulty comprehending. I surprised my family and friends of how far I come and how much I over came. I did not seem it would happen. My father always told me what I could not do, but not what I can do. My mother had confidence in me. She would tell me to keep striving. No matter how many times kids put me down; she would tell me to keep striving.

            I was picked on a lot.  One incident that has always stood out in my mind, was being called, “The Bionic Booger.” It is funny now, but as a child it was not. My elementary school girlfriend was Michelle Cork. She had red hair. The kids would tease us and call us names, “The Bionic Booger and Pork Chop”. It humiliated us.

            Then in middle school the worst incident happened to me. While in 9^th grade wood shop I was hit in the head by a two by four. I bully named Eugene; hit me just because I stood up for myself. He made fun of my speech and I told him to shut up. I had six stitches in my head and missed a week a school, because of the incident.

            After that I decided to join a martial arts school and learn how to fight.

After school on Friday December 4th, 1981 I got the mail out of the mail box and noticed this coupon booklet for discounts in the local shops and restaurants like: Maid Rite, Hungry Hobo, Happy Joes, Hardees, Swim Lessons at the YMCA and free lessons at Nick Tarpon’s Tae Kwon Do and Karate. The one that really caught my eye was one for five free lessons in your choice of Judo or Karate at the local Karate Dojo downtown named: "Quad Cities School of Judo and Karate." I wanted to do this so, I rushed in the house to talk to my mom. I found my mom in the kitchen on her hands and knees scrubbing the floor. I asked excitedly, "Mom can I take these free karate lessons?" She looked over at me and asked, "What lessons?" I responded, "Here in this coupon book." She got up from the floor and took the coupon book from me. She looked at it and said talk it over with your Father. When my dad got home he ordered a half sausage, half pepperoni, with green pepper topping pizza from the best pizza place in town called Harris Pizza. I went into the kitchen with the coupon book and talked to him. He said sure give them a call. I called and talked to Sensei Jess Mills. I told him that I was interested in taking the five free lessons. He asked me if I wanted to do Judo or Karate. I asked him, "What do they entail?" He said Karate is punching and kicking and Judo is taking people down. "…Like wrestling?” I asked. He responded, "Something like that." My family was there by the phone and they told me Judo would be better. However, my interest was Karate. So, I said I want to do karate. He said come on in and sign up. Just then my dad came back in with the pizza; he left during the phone conversation. I said to Jess Mills that we are going to eat now. He told me to come in on Tuesday to sign up and I told him that I would see him there. While I was eating pizza my mom, dad, sisters and I talked about me signing up for karate. My youngest sister, Tammy told me that Judo would have probably been better. I did not know it then, but many years later I earned a Black Belt in Jujitsu and in Karate from the "Quad Cities School of Judo and Karate".

            At around 7PM on Tuesday December 8th, 1981 my dad and I arrived at the Dojo downtown. Since a karate class was going on when we got there - the Sensei had my dad and I watch some of the class to see if we like it. I enjoyed watching the class all the students were doing punches and making a loud scream after every third one. After the class the Sensei (Head Instructor) invited us into his office. He discussed the details about the five free lessons with my dad. I quote him as saying this, "Your son looks like he is well disciplined, he is sitting in a good posture like a karate man would, and it looks like to me that he will be good martial artist and a good addition to the class." So, my dad signed me up. He, also, told me that if I like it and want to stay with karate that he would sign me up monthly. My first introductory lesson started the next day. On the evening of December 9th, 1981 my dad and I arrived at the dojo. I was given uniform in which I was told was called a “Gi” and a white belt. I went in the back of the dojo to change. My dad had a seat in the waiting area. After I changed into my gi and white belt, I walked onto the dojo mat. In doing so - I was immediately stopped by one of the Black Belts. He sternly said, "That is not the proper way to enter the dojo!" I stood there with a dumb look. He continued, "The proper way to enter the dojo is this: Bow and ask permission to enter. Now go back and do that." I went back to the edge of the mat, bowed and asked permission. "Permission Granted", the Black Belt Instructor said.

            The black belt instructor called over a Blue Belt named Golden and told him to show me the Salutation and some basic stances and blocks. The blue belt bowed to the black belt, and then he told me to follow him to a corner of the mat. We went to the corner in the back of the room. First I was taught the salutation. This consisted of the proper way of bowing. Then the salutation as follows: stand in a Heiko Dachi (Attention Stance) and do the proper bow, then while breathing move the feet out to a Fudo Dachi (Heels together / Toe Out Stance) at the same time make the hands in a fist at the side of the body, then while breathing move the feet into a Shiko Dachi (Hour Glass Stance), then we breath after each of the following hand movements: Hands in a Triangle which means Spirit, Mind, and Body, One hand open over one hand closed which means Karate is my Secret, finally Two Open Hands together which means, “I Bare no Weapons”. After that we broke out into a Kiba (Horse Stance) and did basics. First block I was taught was a Jodan Bari (Upward Block) then the Chudan Bari (Middle Block), and lastly the Nidan Bari (Downward Block). The first two blocks were easy. I had lots of trouble with the last block. I found it complicated crossing one arm over my knee then bringing the other arm up to my shoulder and down to my knee were the crossed arm was and bring that hand back to the side simultaneously. I practiced this for most of the rest of the class. Finally the Blue Belt said that he was going to show me one more thing. I said OK. I was shown the lunge punch – step and punch. This was fun. I had a great first introductory lesson. I went home and practiced diligently.

            My second introductory lesson was given on Monday December 14^th 1981. This lesson was done by a black belt instructor. First he went over the blocks I was taught last class. I was still having trouble with the downward block. So, he had me practice that. After I started to get this down some he taught me a basic fall – the back fall. The steps of this are: Squat, Cross the hands to the chest, Roll backward, and Slap the ground. So it goes as follows: Squat, Cross, Roll, Slap. The back fall is Fun! The hour flew fast again, since I spent most of the lesson getting the Nidan Bari down I was only taught one new movement which was the Back Fall.

            My third introductory lesson was on Wednesday December 16^th 1981.  This class was taught at the lower level of the building.  The Head Instructor had us new students watch the class while he demonstrated throwing techniques. He would call us up and throw us on the floor – we had to fall properly so we would not get hurt. It was fun!

            I went in the next evening for my fourth introductory lesson. Here I learned an exercise called; “The Six – Count Rice Line”. It goes like this: 1. left 45 degree angle shuto, 2. right 45 degree angle shuto, 3. ridge hand across the body, 4. shuto across the body, 5. downward shuto to the center line of the body, and 6. shooting spear hand to the throat. This is a flowing exercise. Then I learned how to do these strikes individually. I learned the Frog down stretch to stretch the legs, which is done be bending over and grabbing the back of the ankles. This lesson I, also, learned the Mai Geri (Front Snap Kick); which goes like this raise the knee and point to where you are kicking, snap the foot out – striking with the ball of the foot, snap back quicker than you kick, and set foot down ending in a Zenkutsu Dachi. We learned variations of this kick as follows: Front Thrust Kick and Front Stomp Kick - Both of these one kicks with the heel of the foot: With the Front Thrust Kick one lefts their foot – thrusting out with the heel at chest level – pushing the opponent backwards. And with the Front Stomp Kick one stomps the top of the opponent’s foot using the heel of the foot. I learned the Top of the Foot Kick as well which is kicking with the top of the foot to the opponent’s groin. This was a great fourth lesson. I hoped I could remember it all.

            My fifth and final introductory lesson was held on Monday December 21^st 1981.

For this lesson I joined the class in the main dojo. The instructor opened up the class with us doing Kata; I did not know what Kata was. He told me to follow along. I followed along the best I could.  The class (and I kinda) ran the Kata’s called Taikyoku’s. There are three of these forms and they are basics combined in a simple I pattern. The first one is executed with a high block and a punch to the face, the second one is executed with a low block and a punch to the groin, and the third one is executed with a middle block and a punch to the mid section. I should get these down in the next few classes if my dad lets me join the dojo. Also during this class I learned a technique called Ippon Kumite which goes like this: step back, high block, rear leg front kick, step down, shuto strike, reverse punch, forward punch, and step back low block. We, the class, had to pair up with a partner and do this against each other – one person being the attacker and one person being the defender. It was fun! I told my dad I want to join.

            After karate class my dad sat down with the teacher, Sensei Jess Mills and signed me up for the regular sessions. “I hope to learn to defend myself well”, was the thought going through my head. This became to be one of the most important parts of my life. Later I used what I learned in karate in the Navy.

            I trained at the dojo all through high school. I trained there all during my 10^th, 11^th, and 12^th grade years. When I joined the Navy in August 1985 I was a blue belt in karate. I made brown belt when I was on the Battleship New Jersey BB-62, which was my first Naval Command. I made First Degree Black Belt when I was stationed in Newport Rhode Island working in Security duty. This was in 1994.            

I became dedicated doing karate. I trained constantly daily. Since I was too old to do sports with my classmates, karate became my sport. Then later it became my way of life! My goal was to perfect my movements. 

I took my 8^th Kyu Yellow Belt Promotion Test in August 1982.

The test went like this:  

1. I understood General Karate Knowledge and Procedure.

(I recited the following :)

1. Understanding of Shuri Ryu Emblem –

     Red – Fire, 5 points – the 5 animal forms, Circle – continuous flow

2. Mokuso – a direct look into our mind in order to be able to see our self.

3. The five elements and what they mean. Earth: Body, Fire: Energy,

    Water: Feeling of Self, Air: Spirit, and Mind: Inner Self

4. The Maxim – “Karate knowledge is acquired through good health, spiritual and mental perfection, and enjoyment of life to its fullest with devotion to God, Country, and fellow men. Karate knowledge shall never be given on the basis of physical performance alone no matter how excellent the ability.

Knowledge shall be given to those whose character can truly be trusted.”

5. History – “The historical roots of Karate can be traced to the Buddhist monks of the Sil Lum Monastery in China. Taishi Daruma, a Buddhist Indian Abbot, crossed the Himalayas from India to China on foot to enlighten the Monks of the Shorinji Temple and to teach them the ways of Zen. He taught them the Buddhist doctrine of the inseparability of the mind and body known as Shih Polo Han Sho for the purpose of disciplining them to endure the rigors of his discipline. In 1400 the Sho dynasty consolidated its civil administration prohibition and confiscation of all arms. This led to an increased interest in fighting with hands, feet, and farming implements. This is how Karate began.”

      2. Execution of basic blocks:

            1. Jodan Bari – Upward Block

            2. Nidan Bari – Downward Block

            3. Chudan Bari – Outside Block

            4. Haishu Bari – Back Hand Block

            5. Hagashi Bari – Brush Block

      3. Execution of long basic punches:

            1. Sieken Tsuki – Fore Fist Twisting Punch

            2. Tate Tsuki – Vertical Fist Punch

            3. Utski Tsuki – Inverted Fist Punch

            4. Age Tsuki – Rising Punch

            5. Mawashi Tsuki – Round House Punch

            6. Kagi Tsuki – Hook Punch

      4. Execution of short basic punches:

            1. Sieken Tsuki – Fore Fist Twisting Punch

            2. Tate Tsuki – Vertical Fist Punch

            3. Utski Tsuki – Inverted Fist Punch

            4. Age Tsuki – Rising Punch

            5. Ura Ken – Downward Backfist

            6. Chu Ura Ken – Side Backfist

      5. Execution of basic kicks:

            1. Front Snap Kick (Mai Geri)

            2. Round House Kick (Mawashi Geri)

            3. Back Kick (Kokato Geri)

            4. Side Kick (Yoko Geri)

            5. Thrust Kick

            6. Stomp Kick

            7. Sweep Kick

      6. Execution of basic stances:

            1. Attention Stance

            2. Informal Attention Stance (Fudo Dachi)

            3. Straddle Horse Stance (Kiba Dachi)

            4. Ready Stance (Hachiji Dachi)

            5. Forward Stance (Zenkutsu Dachi)

            6. Back Stance (Mawazuku Dachi)

            7. Jungle Boy Stance (One Knee/Low Stance)

      7. Understanding of the Japanese numbers One thru Ten:

            One – Ichi or Sho

            Two – Ni

            Three – San

            Four – Shi or Yon

            Five – Go

            Six – Roku

            Seven – Shichi

            Eight – Hachi

            Nine – Ku

            Ten – Ju

      8. Understanding of the three types of Dragons:

            1. Air Dragon – Royal Heavenly Dragon

            2. Hornless Dragon – Token of the Spirit World

            3. Protector Dragon – Protector of the Earth

      9. Kosho Ryu (The Three Trees):

            1. Pine – Trunk symbolizes Strength, Needles symbolize Long Life

            2. Bamboo – Trunk symbolizes Resilience, Interior symbolizes Purity

            3. Plum – Bark symbolizes Old Age, Blossoms symbolize Life Anew

      10. I understood the forms of Hsing Yi (Spirit Way):

            1. Pi Chi Uan- Splitting

            2. Peng Chi Uan – Crushing

            3. Tzuann Chi Uan – Drilling

            4. Pao Chi Uan – Pounding

            5. Heng Chi Uan – Crossing

      11. I understood the Hand Forms of Shuri Ryu:

            1. Sieken Fist (Shuri Ryu) – tight fist rolled around index finger 

            2. Phoenix Eye (Keiko Lobe) – tight fist with index knuckle protruding

            3. Dragon Head (Body Strength) – tight fist with middle knuckle protruding

            4. Tiger Claw (Bone Strength) – forming ones hand into a claw shape

            5. Leopard Paw (Inner and Outer Strength) – fingers closed / punch with               

                                                                                    Finger Knuckles to throat

            6. Snake Head (Breath Strength) - middle and ring finger closed,

                                                                   Thumb, index, and middle finger form a claw

            7. Crane Fist (Spiritual Strength) – fingers curled with thumb touching

      12. I executed the first movement of each series of Body Forms of Shuri Ryu:

            1. Dragon Form

            2. Tiger Form

            3. Leopard Form

            4. Snake Form

            5. Crane Form

      13. I executed the first two Ippon Kumites (Power Forms):

            1. Ippon Kumite Ichi

                       

1. Ready Stance (Hachiji Dachi)

                        2. Attacker executes a right punch from a right forward stance

                             Step back into a left forward stance execute a left high block

                        3. Execute a right forward kick to the groin

                        4. Place the foot down into a right forward stance /

                            Execute a right edge of hand strike (Shuto) to the clavicle

                        5. Remain in previous position execute a left reverse punch

                        6. Remain in previous position execute a right forward punch

                        7. Step back into a left forward stance / execute a left low block.

            2. Ippon Kumite Ni

                        1. Same as Ippon Kumite One except a Hammer Hand to the shoulder

                            instead of a Shuto to the Clavicle. 

14. I execute Taezu Nura Waza One (Continuous Flow Form One):

            1. Taezu Nura Waza #1

                        1. Step back with the right foot into a left Zenkutsu dachi /

                            Execute a Left Short High Block

                        2. Step forward with the right foot into a right Zenkutsu dachi /

                          . Execute a right Knife Edge Strike to the right Clavicle

                        3. Remain in previous dachi / execute a left punch to the Heart

                        4. Remain in previous dachi / execute a right punch to the Heart

                        5. Remain in previous stance / execute a Double Snake Head Strike

                                                                         to the opponents Eyes

                        6. From the previous dachi execute a right forward short kick to groin

                        7. Step back into a left Zenkutsu dachi / execute a left low block

15. I executed the following Katas (to shape and form) flawlessly:

            1. Taikyoku Kata Ichi – Low Block / Low Punch

            2. Taikyoku Kata Ni – Middle Block / Middle Punch

            3. Taikyoku Kata San – High Block / High Punch

16. I demonstrated the following Ukemi’s (Falling Ways):

            1. Front Fall

            2, Front Roll Fall

            3. Back Fall

            4. Front Shoulder Roll

            5. Back Roll

17. I defended myself with the following four Self Defenses (Goshindo Uki’s):

            1. Goshindo Uki Ichi – Grab to the throat defense

            2. Goshindo Uki Ni – Grab to the shoulder defense

            3. Goshindo Uki San – Full Nelson defense

            4. Goshindo Uki Yon – Head Lock defense

18. Sparring (Kumite):

            1. I sparred for 2 one minute rounds at full speed.

19. Meditation (Mukuso):

            1. I meditated on my knees for 20 minutes

            2. I breathed in through my nose out through my month.

            3. I reflected on my self

20. Lastly I had to name the 10 ways to recognize a Shuri Ryu practitioner.

      They are as follows:

1.      Stances are exceptionally low in Kata.

2.      Seiken Fist – Index finger rest under curled thumb.

3.      Hips rotate with a definite forward movement.

4.      Backfist – 4 arm back fists and 4 shoulder back fists.

5.      Blocks – 5 major blocks, all start spiraling at the wrists and spiral until completion of the block.

6.      Head snaps when turning.

7.      Thousand Hand five and six count rice exercises and the sun fist.

8.      High rising block executed with the thigh up.

9.      Teeth clenched.

10.  Eyes wide with a wild stare.

This was the end of my Yellow belt test.  

On June 12^th 1984 I was promoted to 7^th Kyu Yellow Belt. The following year, January 17^th 1985, I took the promotion test for 6^th Kyu Blue Belt.

The test went like this:

1. General Karate Knowledge and Procedure
2. All basic blocks:
1. Upward Block (Jodan Bari)
2. Downward Block (Nidan Bari)
3. Downward Block / Rising Leg (Nidan Bari Age Hiza)
4. Middle Outside Block (Chudan Bari)
5. Middle Inside Block (Chu Bari)
6. Back Hand Block (Haishu Bari)
7. Brush Block (Hagashi Bari)
8. Check Block (Uki Bari)
9. Elbow Block (Empi Bari)
10. Push Over Block (Na Gashi Bari)
3. All basic strikes:
1. Heel Palm Strike (Shotei)
2. Spear Hand Strike (Shute)
3. Hammer Hand Strike (Tettui Te)
4. Open Hand Chop (Shuto)
5. Ridge Hand Strike (Shuto-Ni)
6. Thrust Strike (Kekomi Te)
7. Crane Strike (Tekubi Te)
8. Thumb Strike (Uris Shuto Te)
9. Finger Strike (Uris Ken)
10. Snake Head Strike
4. All basic kicks:
1. Front Snap Kick (Mai Geri)
2. Heel Kick (Kakato Geri)
3. Thrust Kick (Kekomi Geri)
4. Blade Edge Kick (Sokutu Geri)
5. Defense Kick (Uki Mai Geri)
6. Jumping Front Kick (Tobi Geri)
7. Sweep Kick (Gedan Geri)
8. Turn Kick (Kaette Geri)
9. Back Turn Kick (Ushiro Geri)
10. Back Kick (Mawazuku Geri)
11. Stepping Side Kick (Bo Sokutu Geri)
12. Thrust Side Kick (Yoko Geri)
13. Crescent Kick (Chu Geri)
14. Hook Kick (Kokato Jo Geri)
15. White Herron Kick (Dan Enn Sho Geri)
16. Crane Kick (Tekubi Geri)
5. All Basic Stances (Same as Yellow)
6. Wansu Kata – Dragon Boy Dumping Form
1. Spirit
2. Mind
3. Universe
7. Free Exercises (Jiju Undo):
1. Chudan Uke – Sieken – Spare Block Up                              

       (Middle Block – Twisting Punch – Upward Block)

2.  Jodan Uke – Riken – Spare Block Up        

       (Upward Block – Fore Fist Punch – Upward Block)

3. 45 Degree Step Back – Riken (Fore Fist Punch)
4. Gedan Uke – Riken – Spare Block Up 

      (Inside Block – Fore Fist Punch – Upward Block)

5. Shuto Uke – Nukite (Scan Block – Procession Blow)
6. Chudan – Sweep –  Jab                                                                            (Forearm Block – Sweep Kick – Jab to Nose)
7. Falling Exercises (Ukemi):
1. Front Roll (Mai Umke)
2. Front Roll Fall (Mai Ukemi)
3. Side Fall (Yoko Ukemi)
4. Back Fall (Ushiro Ukemi)
5. Back Roll (Ushiro Umke)
6. Cartwheel (Age Ukemi)
8. Pa Su Chen Exercises:
1. Turning Bricks
2. Squeezing Vine Bundles
3. Bending Bo
4. Twisting Rope
5. Bag Grappling and Throwing
6. Snapping and Pinching Beans

      

1. Ippon Kumite 1 thru 5:
1. Shuto Hand to side of neck
2. Hammer Hand to clavicle bone
3. Leopard Paw to throat
4. Phoenix Eye to sternum
5. Heel Palm to nose
2. Taezu Nura Waza 1 and 2
3. I executed the second movement of the five Body Forms (listed above)
4. Then I had to defend myself with the following Goshindo Uki’s (Self Defenses):
1. Goshindo Uki Ichi – grab to the throat defense
2. Goshindo Uki Ni – grab to the shoulder defense
3. Goshindo Uki San – Full Nelson Defense
4. Goshindo Uki Yon – Head Lock Defense
5. Goshindo Uki Go – push from behind defense
6. Goshindo Uki Roku – grab from behind defense
5. Then I sparred at full speed for 3 One minute rounds
6. Lastly I had to recite the Mental Exercise Creed:
1. What a beautiful day.
2. What a great feeling it is to be alive.
3. My greatest mistake would be to give up.
4. My greatest need for today is common sense.
5. My greatest sin would be fear.
6. My greatest race is a long and vigorous life.
7. My greatest gift to give or receive is Love.
8. My most expensive indulgence is hate.
9. My greatest stumbling block is my ego.
10. The most ridiculous trait is false pride.
11. The most overbearing manner is arrogance.
12. The greatest thought is faith in something or someone.
13. My greatest wealth is my health.
14. The best day is today.

This was the end of my Blue Belt test.

Note: The reason for the gap in between my 8^th and 7^th Kyu was due to me getting a virus. I was hospitalized and missed half of my school year. When I went back to school, I focused my time on catching up. I caught up on all of my homework and classes and went on to the next school year. This was my 10^th grade year. A rough year for me!

Then I went back into doing my karate classes. During my senior year in High School I messed up by telling my friends about Karate Class. My intent was to get some people to join the class. I wanted to train with classmates and friends. After I told some people they told me to show them some. I made a mistake and showed them Wansu Kata in the hall way. This I should not have done.          

After doing this I was mocked by students. They have no sense of what karate really is and what it does to ones character. Karate has helped built my character. This is one of the ways it has helped me. After the students mocked me I walked away. They then called me chicken. I don’t understand what is wrong with people.                        Why mock someone?  

            In conclusion about this section: Karate has taught me discipline, how to better control my emotions, it helped me build my character, it helped me mature and grow, it helps me in times of stress and toil through its breathing, it helps me focus on my homework and my life, it strengthen me through its exercises, and it will help me defend myself if need be.

           

Throughout my life karate and the martial arts in general has always been my focus. I desired to learn as many styles as possible. So throughout my military career I would join a martial arts school wherever I was stationed. In Long Beach California I joined the Ed Parker’s School of American Kenpo Karate which I earned a blue belt in.  At the same time I trained at The Five Animal Kung Fu Academy in Los Angeles California which I earned a red sash in Hung Gar Tiger Fist Kung Fu. When I was stationed in Seattle Washington I took a class in Tai Chi Chun. While stationed in Virginia Beach Virginia I expanded my horizons more by taking a class in the World Tae Kwon Do Federations style of Tae Guek Tae Kwon Do which I earned a red belt in under the instruction of Sun Lee Kim. Then while stationed in Newport Rhode Island I taught at my own dojo The Pine Tree Wind School of Karate. I taught classes in my own style called Tiger Ryu Karate Do. Then on the U.S.S. Belleauwood LHA 3 out of San Diego California I taught classes in the ships gym in Shurinju Ryu Karate Do and wrote a self defense program for the Ships Self Defense Force which I taught Jujitsu to.

Here is my martial arts portfolio:

Martial Arts Styles & Schools & Teachers trained under:

1. Michelle Fox - Stand Firm Self Defense Class,

   John Deere Junior High School, Moline IL. 1979

2. Sensei Jess Mills - Shuri Ryu Karate, Quint Cities

   School of Karate, Moline IL. 1981 - 1985

3. Sifu Hinzel and Master Lo Wong - Tiger Fist Kung Fu, 

   Five Animal Kung Fu Academy, Los Angeles CA.

   1986 - 1990

4. Mr. Edward Booze - Ed Parkers American Kenpo Karate,

   Long Beach CA. 1987 - 1989

5. BM1 KC Reed - Battleship New Jersey Karate Team, 

   "Jersey Tigers" 

   USS New Jersey BB-62, Long Beach CA. 1989

6. Miss Olivia - Bojitsu, Long Beach Naval Base Park,

   Long Beach CA. 1987

7. Dave Rosario - Arnis Filipina Stick Fighting, 2 mos.

   Subic Bay Philippines 1989

8. Mr. Mark Balawski - Tai Chi Class, Lake Washington

   Votech. Seattle WA. 1991

9. Master Sun Yong Lee - WTF Tae Kwon Do; Tae Guek Form,

   US Tae Kwon Do Center, Virginia Beach VA. 1995 - 1997

10. Sifu Bison Lopez - Seven Star Praying Mantis Kung Fu

    USS John C. Stennis CVN-74, Shakedown, 1997 - 1998

11. Kyoshi Frank Smith - Shurinju Ryu Karate Do,

    Traditional School of Okinawan Karate,

    North East Regional Director, New England

    1998 - 2000

12. Grand Master Zenkoshi - Director of the...

    Traditional School of Okinawan Karate

    "One Tree, One School, One Way"

    Tode Te Karate 1998 - 2000

13. Sweet Pete Salas - Chinese Kempo, Chinese Kempo  

    Federation, Chula Vista CA. 2000 - 2003

14. Master Zenkoshi Jr. - Director of the American and

    Okinawan Traditional Karate Council 2004 - 2008

Ranks Held in the Martial Arts:

1. Shurinju Ryu Karate Do, Rokudan-Ho; Kyoshi

   (Honorary 6th Dan Black Belt)

   March 18^th, 2013

2. Shuri Ryu Karate Do, Shodan (1st Degree Black Belt)

   January 8th, 1994

3. Jujitsu Te, Shodan-Ho (Honorary Black Belt)

   January 8th, 1994

4. Tiger Fist (Hung Gar) Kung Fu, Red Sash, 1990

5. American Kenpo Karate, Blue Belt, 1990

6. Tae Kwon Do, Honorary Red Belt,

   September 24th, 1996  

Programs and Places Karate Taught:

1. Kono Village Karate Program, Belleview WA.           

   Instructor of Tiger Ryu Karate 1990 - 1991,

   top student: Chase Larson

2. USS Richmond K. Turner Karate Program, Shuri Ryu,

   Head Instructor 1992 - 1994, top student:

   Chris Marchand 

3. Security Martial Arts Instructor, Newport Base

   Security Team 1998 - 2000

4. Pine Tree Wind School of Karate, Newport Rhode Island

   Children’s Karate Class Instructor 1998 - 2000

5. USS Belleauwood Karate Program, Shurinju Tiger Ryu,

   Lead Instructor, 2001 - 2002

6. USS Belleauwood Security Self Defense Program,

   Program Advisor, 2002 - 2004

7. Kerofsky Family Dojo, Shurinju Tiger Ryu Karate Do,

   Chief Instructor, 2006 - present

  

Tournaments and Demonstrations Participated In:

Location               Year                   Standings

Mississippi Valley Invitational

Davenport Iowa               1982                  4th Place Kata

                                                                                    Last Place Sparring

Davenport Iowa                                             1984                                          4th Place Kata

                                                  10th Place Sparring

Illinois State Nationals

Peoria Illinois                                                1985                                          5th Place Kata

                                                  54th Place Sparring

Ed Parkers Internationals

Long Beach California        1987                 4th Place Kata

Seattle Invitational

Seattle Washington                                        1989                                      6th Place Kata

                                                 Injured Knee Sparring

Red Lion Review

Belleview Washington                                  1990                                       Tiger Ryu Demonstration

San Diego Grand Nationals   

San Diego California         2001                      6th Place Kata

Asian Pacific Heritage Demonstration

USS Belleauwood LHA-3        2002                   Kata Demonstration

Great Lakes Illinois         2005   Kata and Weapons Demo with Son Tim

Great Lakes Illinois                                       2006                Spokesman for Son Tim

Awards in Martial Arts:

1. Karate - Outstanding Student of the Year, 1984

Instructor Certificates:

1. Basic Martial Arts Instructor, Shurinju Ryu Karate

2. Naval Self Defense Instructor, Naval Security Force

Association Memberships:

1. United States Karate Association, 1982 - 1985

2. American Karate Association, 1992 - 1994

3. International Martial Arts Council, 1994 - 1996

4. World Self Defense Federation, 1996 - 1999

5. Traditional School of Okinawan Karate -

   Board of Masters, Lifetime Member since 2000

6. Security Officers Martial Arts Council, since 2001

7. American and Okinawan Martial Arts Council,

   Lifetime Member since 2005 

History of Tiger-Ryu Karate:

            Tiger-Ryu was developed in Seattle Washington in 1991 by Martial Artist Timothy Lee Kerofsky. Mr. Kerofsky’s roots are traced to Opole Poland in which his family immigrated to LaSalle and Rock Island Illinois. He was born in Moline Illinois in 1965. He started learning self defense in 8^th grade when a student pulled a knife on him for lunch money. His first self defense class was called “Stand Firm” under the instruction of Michelle Fox. In 1981 he joined the “Quint Cities School of Judo and Karate” under the instruction of Sensei Jess Mills. The style was called “Shuri-Ryu”. He trained there until August 1985 when he joined the Navy. He received his Ikkyu under video training. He served on his first ship, the USS New Jersey BB-62, as a Boatswains mate. During his first “West Pac” in 1986 Mr. Kerofsky’s friend, S. Hinzel introduced him to his master in Hong Kong – Master Lo Wong. It is then he started training in Tiger- Dragon Kung Fu (Hung-Gar). In 1987 while the Battleship was in the shipyards he joined “Ed Parkers School of Kenpo Karate” after seeing the 23^rd International Karate Championships at Long Beach Arena. After his second “west Pac” in 1988 he met a woman named Ms. Olivia Ling training in “Bo-Jitsu” at the base park. After seeing her doing some extraordinary things with the Bo staff, he asked her to teach him some. He trained with her for a year until his third “West Pac” cruise at the end of 1989 until 1990. Right before the deployment he joined the ships Karate team, “Jersey Tigers” which started that year under the instruction of K.C. Reed. The Karate team only lasted for four months. During the Gulf Cruise in 1990 while on liberty in the Philippine Islands he did some stick fighting under the instruction of Danny Banitez. In April of 1990 he got out of the Navy and moved to Seattle Washington. He attended classes at Lake Washington Vocational Technical Institute (Lake Washington VOTECH) and did a Tai Chi Chuan class under the instruction of Mark Balaczski for college credit. In 1991 Mr. Kerofsky got married to me, Jill Janine Meister.  It is then he started developing his own style. He combined what he has learned into a form he calls, “Tiger-Ryu”. He then registered it with the World Self Defense Federation and the American Martial Arts Council in Seattle Washington in September of 1991. 

            In January of 1992 he re-joined the Navy.  He went to MS ‘A’ School (Cook School) in San Diego California. He became a pantry cook stationed on the USS Richmond K. Turner CG-20 stationed in Charleston South Carolina. On January 8^th, 1994 while on an extended leave he earned his Black Belt (Shodan) under a Kamaza Ceremony. He served on the “Turner” until May of 1995. Then he transferred to the USS John C. Stennis CVN-74 out of Norfolk Virginia. He worked as the Training Petty Officer until June of 1997. Sifu Bison Lopez, a master instructor in “Seven Star Praying Mantis Gung Fu”, started a Ships Martial Arts Program in October 1996. Mr. Kerofsky joined the program to help instruct and learned a lot in the process. He learned the Mantis form called, “Bong Bo” (Crushing Steps). His next naval command was shore duty at the Naval Station in Newport Rhode Island. In Rhode Island he attended Master at Arms training, Auxiliary Security Force training, and Certified Security Professional training. He worked as the Team Leader for the Blue Security Team (Night Watch) until September of 2000. He became a Certified Naval Security Force Instructor and taught security tactics, self defense (Jujitsu) techniques, and anti-terrorism awareness. In 1998 he earned his Second Degree Black Belt (Nidan) and on January 8^th, 2000 he earned his Third Degree Black Belt (Sandan) along with a Basic Instructor Certificate and Lifetime Membership in the Traditional Schools of Okinawan Karate. Mr. Kerofsky’s next naval command was on the USS Belleauwood LHA-3 in San Diego California. There he crossed into the Master at Arms rating and wrote a Self Defense Program for the Security Staff. In 2001 he furthered his security training by attending Armed Pier Sentry training, Black Water Security training, and the OC Spray course. He then worked as a Ships Roving Patrol Guard. In 2003, after attending Naval Corrections and Brig Staff training in Lockland Texas, he worked as a Cell Block Supervisor in the Ships Brig. In 2004 he worked with the Naval Security Force for the Global War on Terrorism in Iraq and Kuwait. After ironically getting injured by a cabinet that fell on a ladder well he went to rehab at Great Lakes Illinois. He worked doing administration duties with the Master at Arms, front desk duties, and Leading Petty Officer Duties. He officially retired from the Navy on May 31^st, 2007.

            Kyoshi Timothy L. Kerofsky is currently the chief instructor of the Kerofsky Family In-House Dojo. He taught karate in Seattle WA, Rhode Island, San Diego CA, and home in Moline Illinois. His first student was Chase Larson. He has life experience from his travels all over the world. He has traveled throughout the Middle East, Europe, and Asia. His favorite places were in the Orient – Korea, Philippines, Thailand, Hong Kong, Japan, and Singapore. In Singapore he visited the botanic gardens, shrines, and monasteries where he wrote down different philosophies’.  Kyoshi Kerofsky is currently a 6th degree black belt in Shurinju Ryu Karate Do which he earned on March 18^th, 2013. He has a heart for the Martial Arts!

            Above I told you about my husband and mentor Kyoshi Timothy L. Kerofsky. Now I am going to tell you about Tiger-Ryu Karate itself. Tiger-Ryu is mainly the combination of Shurinju-Ryu Karate Do and Tiger Dragon Kung Fu. It was developed in Seattle in 1991 like I wrote before. Mr. Kerofsky is a good Martial Artist and he constantly studies and practices, even with his injuries he acquired in the military. Tiger-Ryu utilizes Karate Basics, Kenpo Techniques, Kung Fu Forms, Bo-Jitsu Weaponry, and Tai Chi Meditation. Tiger-Ryu consists of 10 levels, 2 sub-levels, and a Grand Master Level. The first five levels are the foundation. They consist of the History, Creed, Basics, Kote Aite, 16 Techniques, Wansu-Tiger Kata (the main form of Tiger-Ryu), Basic Weapons, and Meditation. The next five levels consist of Advanced Techniques, Forms, Evasion Movements, and Tactics. The two sub-levels are the Tiger and the Dragon. The tiger is upon the 7^th and 9^th levels. In the 7^th level one performs the “Long Tiger Form”. In the 9^th level one does forms and techniques blindfolded. The Dragon is upon the 10^th level were one does ten trials. After he or she becomes a master of Tiger-Ryu and also of themselves. There can be more than one Master, but only one Grand Master. He or she then becomes known as the “Grand Dragon Master”. A true master comes along once in a lifetime, he or she is a master of character. This was rewritten by my wife in 2011, it was first written in 1991, then 1995, then 1997.

There was a time while in Long Beach California when I had to defend myself.

When I was helping this girl named Camile to get off of her drug habits; we were out at the Long Beach Café one morning having a breakfast. After the breakfast while walking outside the restaurant one of her small time dealers of crack cocaine pulled a knife out on me. Being a female or not, I had no choice but to defend myself. When she swung the blade downward, I cross blocked and countered; slamming her elbow upon my knee – breaking her arm. She ran off screaming and Camile and I went on our way. We saw eye to eye after that. She was convinced that I was there to help her.

Though my dad and I have never seen eye to eye, there is one thing he did tell me that has always stuck with me. That is, “If you’re going to do something, do it right or don’t do it at all.” This I heeded onto during my naval career. There was one time in particular that I used this advice.  While I was “Mess Cranking” which is working in the ships mess; the ships kitchen decks and galley on the Battleship New Jersey BB-62 in 1986 I used my dad’s advice.

May 19^th, 1986

            Scullery Captain! I completed basic scullery operations PQS and was made the Scullery Captain this evening. This means that I am the Supervisor of the Starboard Scullery. Cranking isn’t bad! Oh Yea!!!

May 20^th, 1986

            Thought, “What did my dad teach me? Two things, Do the job right or don’t do it at all and be responsible for your own actions.” As the new scullery captain I am going to make sure the job is done right and make sure that my 2 workers are being responsible. I have it set up like this: one worker grabs the trays and silverware from the window and rinses them off, the second worker stacks them onto the racks and puts them into the machine, the third worker takes the trays off the rack and stacks them – he also sorts the silver ware. Today I was the third worker. Tomorrow I will be the first, the first worker today will be the second, and the second worker will be the third. I set it up, so that we rotate like this every day. The crew agreed. This makes it fair for everyone.  I made a rotational calendar, so that everyone can see their work positions for that day either first, second, or third.

May 22^nd, 1986

            Today I worked the Second man position which is stacking trays on the racks and putting them into the machine. Also with this position we have to separate the silverware into containers eating side up 20 to 30 pieces a container – spoons, forks, knifes. After they come out of the machine the third man turns them upside down into a separate container. This is easier than sorting them. So, we implemented this instead of putting them on a flat rack. This is by the book, anyway. It is neat watching the dishes go through the ‘Dragon’. The water comes down forcefully and splashes out of the back of the machine and then the front when the very hot final rinse kicks on. We have to be careful grabbing the racks as not to burn ourselves. We wear these heavy long rubber gloves while working the scullery machine as a safety measure and a rubber apron.

May 24^th, 1986

            First port call; Pearl Harbor Hawaii We moored at a pier at the Island of Oahu at 1000. I went up topside to take pictures. I wasn’t supposed to go to the weather decks, so I went up to the O2 level and took pictures out of the door. Then at 1200 they called liberty call. I got into a taxi to Pearl City, in which the driver charged me $25. He ripped me off! He took me downtown Honolulu then turned around and went to Pearl City. Anyway, I called my Aunt Cora from a store (can’t think of the name of it) and she came and picked me up. I met my two little cousins; Casey and Cory for the first time.

We went out to eat at Chi Chi’s Restaurant. I, also, met my cousin Sharon and her husband, Jen. We all went out to eat together. Afterwards we went back to Cora’s house and I had a beer. I then played the card game called: Kings Corners with Casey and Cory. They stayed over all night for a sleep over and we played games and had fun!

May 25^th, 1986

            Today is Sunday, but it is a day not to be forgotten. I took Richard Wises’ place at the beverage bar today. I got up at 0400. Cora drove me to the ship. At 0500 I started work; first I made bug juice and set up the beverage bar. At 0600 I ate breakfast. During the meal I kept the drinks filled consisting of Coffee, Bug Juice, and Milk. During the process of filling up the milk, I found out that one of the refrigerators wasn’t working properly and we had sour milk. So I had to go down below and break out more. I ate lunch at 1030, secured the bar and cleaned it up at 1300, took a break from 1400 until 1515. During that time I called my Mom and Dad. When I went back to work I accidentally dropped a milk carton and it broke all over the floor and I had to clean up the mess, of course. Then to top it off the Chocolate milk leaked out of its container all over the beverage bar. This was not one of my best days! I ate dinner at 1630 then kept the bar going until 1800, cleaned up and knocked off at 2030. Then I took a shower, wrote a couple letters to Piper and Michelle and hit my rack.

May 26^th, 1986

            Today we had quarters (muster and p.i.) at 0730. Afterwards I was knocked off at 0810. I changed and met my Aunt Cora, we went to her house. Sharon came over, she and Jen took me to explore downtown. We walked around and I saw all kinds of neat sites. I took pictures of a statue, the capital, and a memorial. Afterwards we went and got something to eat. We had BBQ Beef Sandwiches and Coca Cola. Then we went to the beach where we swam, laid out in the sun, and listened to my Jam Box. I put in Billy Joel. After a few hours on the beach we left to go back to Cora’s house. Sharon and Jen left, but shortly after my two little cousins Casey (6) and Cory (10) came over and I met their mother, Nancy. Casey and I played go fish, while Cory did her home work. Meanwhile, Cora and Nancy were in the kitchen making spaghetti. We ate a good spaghetti dinner around the table at around 1700. After eating the kids and I went upstairs where they wrestled around with me tickling them. Cora told us to stop, so we just played cards. Then my cousin Diane stopped over. I talked to her for a little while. Shortly after the kids, Diane, and Nancy all left. Cora and I watched the original Rocky on TV. While we were watching it two of Cora’s friends dropped by. They talked while I watched the end of Rocky after Rocky was over her friends left, so Cora and I watched the Goonies. At 2300 she took me back to the ship, because I had to be back by 2400. I went straight to my rack and fell asleep.

May 27^th, 1986

            Unfortunately today we left from Hawaii.  We did not leave until 1430, so the first part of the day was the usual. I got up at 0430, set up the Port not Starboard scullery. We got rotated there; I understood that every six months they rotate the crews and duty section (now we are part of the Gold team). I just happen to fall in during that time. I was there by myself for the first part of the morning setting the scullery up. At 0530 I ate chow and at 0600 I worked the scullery with my original crew who had a fun time in Hawaii like me. They asked me what I did and I told them I hung out with my relatives. They said that it must be nice to have family there. At 0730 breakfast secured, so we cleaned up and took a break at 0800, I came back at 0900 to set up the scullery again for lunch. At 1000 my crew and I ate lunch together. We went back to work at 1030 until 1245, I was the Window Man (First Man) today. We made names for the positions as follows: Window Man (First Man), Scullery Man (Second Man), and Stack Man (Third Man). This avoids confusion. I wrote it on my calendar during break. Anyway, at 1400 we took a break until 1515. I went up to the O2 level to take pictures. Afterwards I went back to work, but we didn’t knock off until late, so I took a shower and hit my rack – falling right to sleep.

            While in the Navy and throughout my life my focus has always been on self improvement. At night I would read my “Psychology Today” magazines. This would help my to understand my thoughts and keep me focused as well. I would take courses outside my rating to learn more about other opportunities.

            One such course was called R.P. which stands for Religious Petty Officer. With these courses I learned about communicating with others, how to be more spiritual, how to be more open minded, and the religions of the world. After I completed these courses I went on to train to be the Catholic Lay Leader.

            As the Catholic Lay Leader I took the place of the chaplain when he was away. I broke the bread and led communion, led the readings, and led the congregation in song. I trained at the base chapel in San Diego California. I not only lead church services in the chaplain’s absence, but lead a Rosary Prayer Group.

            The Rosary Prayer Group I started to pray for a half an hour during the lunch time. Not only to pray the rosary, but to pray for fellow shipmates and troops. Many shipmates came to me with their problems and I would help them as much as I could. It has always made me feel good to help others. I have always felt an overwhelming joy; especially when I inspire children.

            I started inspiring children when I was stationed in Newport Rhode Island. I taught my son Tim’s friend, Ahmed, karate. He got his yellow belt and then showed it off to his friends. After that many of his friends and the neighbor kids wanted to join. So, I rented a building on the base and named it, The Pine Tree Wind School of Karate.         

            This became big around the base housing area. Many of the communities’ children joined. I taught them character building through basic self defense techniques. The children would advance through the children’s program ranks of karate: yellow stripe, yellow, orange stripe, orange, green stripe, green, blue stripe, blue, purple stripe, purple, then three levels of brown, and junior black belt. I knew then that I had a calling to teach children; but did not completely realize it at that time. My focus at that time was to become a Naval Master at Arms.

            I knew I had the skill set to become a master at arms. As a martial artist, my character which is passive; yet aggressive when need be, my way with people; my listening and understanding, my street smarts I acquired, my marksman shooting with the rifle, and sharpshooter shooting with the pistol, and the way I can lead others.

            It was not until 2003 when I was finally honored as a Master at Arms First Class. I was honored, because I wrote a Self Defense Force Training Program for the U.S.S. Belleauwood LHA 3. On the Belleauwood I checked onboard and was assigned as the Speed Line Supervisor. On the Belleauwood I was not treated very well, yet stood the most duties in my entire naval career. Following are statements from my evaluation letter I wrote to protest my low evaluation mark.  When I checked onboard the Belleauwood in October 2000 I already volunteered to be part of the Fire Party. In December I re-qualified as a Fire Investigator and stood this position for duty section 4 while standing middleman and soup cook duties.

During the shipyard and dry-dock period of 2001 I volunteered as the supervisor for the Rehab Tiger Team (a small detail used for maintenance) under the supervision of Chief Roberts. After the rehab I worked as the Damage Control Petty Officer for S-5 Division and made sure that over two hundred staterooms were habitable while I was working with an injured shoulder. My shoulder was injured on June 24^th while moving a cabinet. This was supposed to put me on light limited duty, but it did not.

From September 2001 to July 2002 I worked in the QA; Quality Assurance S-9 Division. I volunteered as the supervisor of the Engineering Tiger Team during this time. My team painted out all of the engineering spaces. My entire team got letters of accommodations for a job well done. Then I transferred to S-2 division.

During the 2002 West Pacific Deployment I Petty Officer Kerofsky worked as the galley middleman while standing collateral duties as the Berthing Petty Officer, ensuring that the supply berthing area was cleaned and orderly; Sanitation Petty Officer, ensuring that all waste products were properly separated, that the plastic was melted and formed into discs in the plastic room, and that medical waste were properly disposed of; Training Petty Officer, verifying training records, writing training lectures, and conducting training to over two hundred galley personnel; the Assistant Repair Parts Petty Officer, which I verified that all orders for repair parts were properly formatted and corrected when needed; a Stretcher Bearer for the Flight Deck Triage during General Quarters in operations in Kuwait and Iraq; the Morale, Welfare, and Recreation Representative in which I helped keep the morale high during a stressful deployment; did Catholic Lay Leading during church services in the absents of the Catholic Chaplain; led Rosary Prayer Meetings, praying with and for shipmates, mentoring them, and helping them to maintain a higher spirit through Christ Jesus; and taught a karate class three times a week in the ships gym.

After the deployment I volunteered to be part of the Ships Self Defense Force. While there I wrote a self defense and security program for the ship. This led me to be promoted to an Honorary Master at Arms. I qualified for the M-9 pistol, M-14 rifle,

M-16 rifle, M-60 auto, Mossberg 500 shotgun, the baton, and hand to hand combat. I became a high ranked marksman for the M-14 7.62 mm rifle and a sharpshooter for the M-9 pistol. I also went to the Armed Sentry Course were I graded at a 98 percent. This course I learned all the general orders of a sentry, how to secure a pier, and how to control a hostel situation. And I stood Ships Self Defense Force duties from March to May for duty section 4.

During the Shipyard and Dry-dock period of 2003 I volunteered for the Deck Matting Team where we redid several ships spaces repairing and relaying new deck tiles. I did this duty until I was accepted as the Duty Master at Arms. I worked with the Security Department from June 2003 to February 2004. While working there I went to three Master at Arms schools: Oleoresin Capsicum Spray Course where I got sprayed in the eyes and had to go through an obstacle course consisting of going across a bar, jumping down and punching and kicking a standing punching bag, shooting a target at close range, running to the next standing bag and hitting it with the baton, and then apprehending and cuffing a suspect. Naval Correction Custody School out of Lockland Air Base in Texas where I graduated with an 86 percent. There we learned all about brig operations, paperwork, forms; check in and out procedures, prisoner search, and how to control a brig riot. And the Prisoner Escort Course where I graduated with a 94 percent. 

During the 2004 West Pacific Deployment I worked as the Galley Speed-line Supervisor while standing the duties of the Phone Talker / Safety Observer during Well Deck Three Alpha Operations on 6 to 11 July while offloading over two thousand Marines safely. I received a letter of accommodation for my outstanding performance. Stood Quarters Supervisor in the Brig during prisoner lockup from 13-16 July where I ensured the safe transport of detainees. And I stood collateral duties as the Moral, Welfare, and Recreation Representative where I sold tour tickets for ports of call in Singapore, Bahrain, and Hawaii – ensuring the welfare of the shipmates onboard and keeping the morale high. Catholic Lay Leader where I ran the church service in the absence of the Catholic chaplain – keeping faith and calmness to shipmates in times of turmoil and distress. And stood duties as the Assistant Safety Petty Officer where I ensured that the galley operations were conducted in a safe manner, ensured all equipment was up to safety standards, and did the daily safety check walking around with my clipboard and check list.

Off the September promotion exam in 2003 I was promoted to Petty Officer First Class. This led me to pursue my sights past chief and work on becoming a Security Technician Officer. I desired to become a Lieutenant. I struggled, however, just to make the chiefs board. The low evaluations from hard work; was not right. The so-called Filipino mafia always tried to keep me down.

They kept me down for one by giving me low evaluations; which I deserved higher evaluations than they gave me. One of my fellow shipmates was promoted to chief petty officer; and he sat around all day. He was promoted because he was a Filipino and I was not. This was not right.

            The way I was treated unfairly made me strive harder. The hatred I felt toward those that did me wrong was the pinnacle that kept me going. This was not always like this for me. When I first started out in my naval career it was not like this. When I started out I felt like I belonged, when I ended off I did not feel like that anymore.

            In my naval career I started as a Boatswainsmate on the U.S.S. New Jersey BB-62 out of Long Beach California. I ended up becoming a cook known as a Mess Management Specialist on the U.S.S. Richmond K. Turner CG 20 out of Charleston South Carolina, and then the name was changed to Culinary Specialists, later I became a Master at Arms on the U.S.S Belleauwood LHA 3 out of San Diego California and strove to make the Chiefs Board so I could later become an officer. My drive was to become a Lieutenant. This eventually did happen, but in the Sea Cadet Core; not the Navy itself.

            Let me describe what I did in the navy and what the rates and rankings are to give you a better understanding of me and my career in the navy. A Boatswainsmate (BM) is a deck hand. He or she does ships preservation, chipping and painting, runs the paint locker, does rigging and line handling, does underway replenishment operations, operates the boat davits, steers the ship as a lee helmsman and helmsman, operates the liberty boats and assault crafts as a boat coxswain, does boarding operations, assists with gunnery operations, does tug boat operations, and stands lookouts and deck watches.

           As a Deck Seaman on the Battleship New Jersey I mostly did chipping and painting. During ships General Quarters Operations which is war operations I worked as the Lower Powder Door Operator for the left gun of turret three. A lower powder door operator is one who operates the powder doors; opening and closing them with a counterweight lever.  To explain the powder doors I will explain how the sixteen inch main battery guns on the battleship worked.  The heart of the operations is in the booth.

 This is where everything is coordinated and controlled from. First off the powder is taken from a powder room through a scuttle. Then put into the hoist tray. After the bags are placed onto the tray I closed the heavy brass doors. There is a red side of the powder bag and a white side. The red side goes to the red side of the hoist. This side contains the fine powder and the rest of the bag has course black pellets. Six one hundred and ten pound powder bags are loaded to fire one eighteen hundred pound projectile. The projectile is loaded by a gypsy head. A line is wrapped around it and it is pulled into the projectile hoist. After it is hoisted to the top of the booth; the projectile is laid across a cradle. Then the rammer-man rams it into the breach. After that the six bags of powder is hoisted up. The top tray of powder is dumped onto the cradle tray; then the bottom tray of powder. Then all six bags are slowly rammed into the breach.  The cradle is lifted, the breach is closed, and then the primer is primed. The Gunners mates then do the elevation of the gun and operate the train; the gun captain lines it on target and boom – the guns are fired. Imagine an eighteen hundred to a twenty seven hundred pound projectile free flying in the air with nothing but the force of the explosion behind it. This was a truly awesome sight to see. There was nothing like working in the main gun battery of a battleship.                                

When I became a Third Class Boatswainsmate I did less chipping and painting and more of the technical duties. These technical duties were supervisory in nature. They included: Aviation Passageway Supervisor, where I ensured the Admirals passage was preserved by keeping it cleaned and dusted; the deck waxed and the brass shined. Tug Boat Team, where I supervised the tie up of the ships tug as we arrived in port. Later I got qualified as a Master Helmsman where I would steer the ship in port. My biggest supervisory job was as a Flood Team Leader during the In-port Emergency Party. Here I supervised the set up of the electrical submersible pump in case of a ships space flood.

Then when I made Second Class Boatswainsmate I got qualified as a Boat Coxswain. As the Boat Coxswain I steered liberty boats while going to exotic ports overseas. Ports like Singapore, the port of the Mer-Lion; like Japan, the land of spices; like Korea, the land exotic flowers; and like Hong Kong, the birth place of Bruce Lee.

I enjoyed traveling to Asia, but desired to see Europe as well. I did this after crossing over to cook and transferring to my next sea going command the guided missile cruiser U.S.S. Richmond K. Turner CG-20 out of Charleston South Carolina. On her I traveled on a Mediterranean Deployment in 1993. I went to Venice, Bara, and Trieste Italy; Rhodes Greece; Alicante Spain; and Toulon France. It was neat to see Europe, but as a martial artist I enjoyed Asia more. Aboard the ship I worked as pantry cook and cooked for twenty six officers. I enjoyed working in the pantry, because I got to use the arts in culinary arts. I enjoyed making garnishes and napkin folding the most. I would make flowers out of citrus fruit peels, make shapes out of fruit, and fold napkins into sashes. The food was served on plates in the pantry like a restaurant and the cooking was enjoyable. I thought then that I was in the right rating, but later realized that I was not.

The galley staffs on the U.S.S. Belleauwood LHA3 made me realize that. Before I got stationed on her I enjoyed being a cook. I enjoyed it so much that I decided to go to Johnson and Wales University and earn a culinary degree. That is what I did and in 1995 I earned an AA in Culinary Arts. I specialized in soups and sauces.

This lead for me to further pursue my college education; I signed up for the P.A.C.E. Program which is the Practical Afloat College Education Program in 1996. This program I took a class in World Religions to better my understanding of people and religions of the world. My goal was to get a degree in theology. Unfortunately that was the only theology class offered through this program. So I took some more business classes to constantly learn about the every changing business world. In 1990 I earned my first BS degree in Business Studies through the Navy Campus Program. So I knew that I could pursue other avenues and further my college education.

In 1998 while I was stationed in Newport Rhode Island I further pursued my college studies at the Community College of Rhode Island. To expand my knowledge in children while teaching them karate, I took classes in education. In 2000 I graduated with an AAS in General Education. This really helped me to gain a general well rounded knowledge and gave me an understanding of how to mentor children with that knowledge. I did not use that knowledge until 2006.

Later in the year 2000 I got certified as a Basic Martial Arts Instructor through the Traditional Schools of Okinawan Karate. I used this to teach onboard the U.S.S. Belleauwood LHA3. I had fun teaching self defense tactics, anti terrorism awareness, and cuffing techniques to the security team; but desired to teach children again. So in 2001 I got a Certification as a Teacher’s Aid and Tutor to Children at the Stratford Institute. Earlier I told you of the bad tour I had onboard the Belleauwood, but things got a little better at my last Naval Station at Great Lakes Illinois.

From mid 2004 to 2006 I went through extensive rehabilitation at Great Lakes Illinois while working in various administration duties. I got stenosis, nerve damage, and muscle damage from injuries that occurred while serving onboard the Belleauwood. In 2006 I taught a basic karate class to children again at the base at Great Lakes Illinois. Then in 2007 I went back home to be with family.

After getting settled I opened my own in-house dojo in 2008. I taught karate classes to children full time until 2010. Then I taught an art class until 2011. Then I went back to teaching karate to the advanced students only; getting them promoted to their brown and black belts in 2012. Now I only teach private classes in karate.

I teach the way I was taught. For an example here are journal entries for when I was stationed in the Philippine Islands and Japan during the shipyard period in 1987.

On Saturday September 5^th, 1987 at 0815 in the morning I departed on an international flight from LA to Manila Philippines for 6 weeks of basic security training and guard duty in Subic Bay. I was looking forward to it, since it gave me a break from the ships duties. The flight took about 15 hours. I brought my old walkman, my Kiss cassettes, my Ed Mc Bain novel entitled Poison, and my Art kit with all my drawing pencils; 4H, H, HB, B, 4B, and 6B. I did not pack my whole sea bag. Since it is winter months I only packed my Dress Blues, Working Blues, 4 pairs of Dungarees, my boone dockers, my leather dress shoes, 6 pairs of skivvies, and my white hat. And I brought some nice civvies too, of course. The last thing I packed was my Gi and Blue Belt. 

            I was thinking what does one do on a 15 hour flight? So, I brought my small red and gold (Marine Corp Colors) gym bag with the ships “Fire Power for Freedom” logo on it I just bought in the ships store and put my drawing stuff in it, walkman, and Kiss cassettes. I sat there listened to music, drew pictures, and read my book.

            I arrived in Manila at 1215 in the afternoon on September 6^th, 1987. This threw me off, since it is 11 fifteen at night in the states. I did not have much time to think when I arrived. I was in my dress blues carrying my sea bag over my back and my gym bag in hand. I looked over and saw a Navy third class Petty Officer in a Working Blue Uniform with a MP Band over his sleeve. He singled me over to him. I walked over to him and saw a jeep. We got in and drove to Olongapo City we stopped along the way and ate lumpia. It took us hours to drive there. When we arrived he took me to the front office of the Base Security building where I showed my TAD orders, got them stamped, and checked in. Afterwards I was taken to the barracks, assigned a bunk and locker, and unpacked my gear. I then chilled for the rest of the day.

            The journal entries from my Security assignments are as follows:

Monday September 7^th, 1987:

            Reveille; Reveille all hands heave out and trice up, drop your cocks and grab your socks, now reveille. 0600 already and I am not even adjusted to the time yet. I got up, showered, shaved, put on my working blues, and followed the guys to the mess hall. I ate three fried eggs, stir fried rice, fried spam, and drank a carton of chocolate milk and an orange juice. Afterwards I mustered up at the class room for 14 (actually 12) days of anti-terrorism, UCMJ, Military Law, and Gate Guard Training. In addition to basic weapons training of the 45 CAL pistol, M-14 rifle, and PR-24 baton plus two days of Hand to Hand training. I don’t know how they are going to squeeze all of it in.

            It is now 1245 in the afternoon; now I know my schedule. Reveille at 0600, breakfast from 0600 to 0715, muster in the classroom at 0730, lunch from 1100 – 1215, muster back in the class at 1230 (I am at my desk now listening to a boring lecture on common sense tactics I already know, put me to sleep already), class ends at 1615. I got to pay some attention now. More tonight…

           

It is now 2130 and I am back in the barracks. We have liberty from knock off until 2100. I went over to see Charito Tabarino again. She was busy, however, so I said hi and left. I have a pen pal here, Olivia Sioco; that lives in Bakoor Cavite, maybe I will meet her. I wonder how far Bakoor is. 

Tuesday September 8^th, 1987:

            Yesterday morning at training we did some introductions and a couple boring lectures in the afternoon. Today it was more fun. We had discussions on anti-terrorism and hard and soft targets. A soft target is one who is not aware of their surroundings, is predictable, and does not pay attention to detail. A hard target will do all of this and will, also, have good posture when walking – looking at all directions; constituently being alert at all times. This is the basic jest of it.

Wednesday September 9^th, 1987:

            I finally found out where Bakoor Cavite is; it is up from Manila. I do not foresee going that far. Maybe I will find someone to hang out here. Cherry and I had fun the first time I was here, but that was then. …Got to focus on my studies now. I will see what happens during the overnight liberty weekend. 

Thursday September 10^th, 1987:

            Today we went over the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). We went over basic articles like: 86 UA, 87 Missing Ships Movement, 93 Abuse and Maltreatment, 111 Drunk and Disorderly, 112 Drunk while Operating a Vessel, 113 Misbehavior of a Sentry, 118 Murder, 120 Assault, and 136 the General Article. We, also, talked about the rights of the accused as covered by article 30. It was an interesting lesson.

Friday September 11^th, 1987:

            Training today was on the court martial procedures. There are three types: General, Special, and Summery. A General is like a trial in the civilian world except with 8 jurors’ instead of 11. One has a right to counsel by a JAG lawyer or their own attorney. A Special is for officer s accused and a Summery is just with the accused and a Judge.

It was interesting.  

Saturday September 12^th, 1987:

            No real classroom stuff today – just cleaning of the barracks. We had liberty call at 1300. I got dressed in my jeans and a button down shirt and went walking around Subic. I ate Lumpia for a snack at the USO. I hung out there for a while and played pool. At 1800 I left to go get some dinner. I bought some Pancit (Filipina noodles) at the D’Fleet open bar. I met this nice girl there too. Her name is Nina. She and I went hanging out. We seem to hit it off well.

Sunday September 13^th, 1987:

            What happened last night? I woke up in a strange hut along the water at some villa here in the Philippines.  I looked over and Nina was not there. I heard a noise out the window and I looked and saw Nina outside. She was wearing a single wrap around her body and carrying a bucket of water. She walked in the door and brought the water into a cooking room. She came back in to where I was laying and asked if I am hungry. I said, “Yes”. She came in with a wooden bowl of rice. I sat up and ate it. I asked her what happened she said I stumbled and fell and she brought me here with her brother and sisters. She has a family of 1 brother and 4 sisters. The Filipinos’ live very simple lives. The whole family lives in a one room hut, cook and eat in a single room, and pump their water from a well. No electricity, no TV, no luxury as we know it. This made me appreciate more what I have in the states. The luxury that we enjoy they enjoy in the city and hotels only. They live a simple life!

            Apparently I was being my goofy self and over did it (I always liked to joke around and have fun), I stumbled and fell backwards. I felt my head, but no bump; must have got lucky. Anyway, Nina and I took a jitney back into town. We got back at 1030. I went to the church service with her. She studies the Catholicism like I do. 

            Afterwards we went hanging at the go cart track, went racing and archery shooting. She likes to archery shoot like I do. We can be a good match. We hung out all afternoon. Maybe I will hang with her next weekend.

             I returned back to the barracks at 1900. I still had my uniform to get washed and pressed. I took it to the laundry and washed it and ironed it. I then polished and buffed my shoes. Afterwards I wrote a letter to Olivia and hit my bunk.

Monday September 14^th, 1987:

            Today we finally got out of the classroom. We mustered at the shooting range at 0730. Therefore the uniform I washed and pressed last night was useless. I was told to put on dungarees when I woke up. In the morning we went over details of the 45 CAL pistol and how to take it apart. Parts of a pistol are the trigger, hammer, pin, spring, slide, clip, safety, and barrel. We took the weapon apart and put it back together several times over. After lunch they taught us how to load the clip (holds 8 rounds, but we only load 5). On our belt we have two clips of five rounds and one loaded pistol. This gives us 15 rounds total. Then we finally got to fire the weapon at a target. We have to qualify 180 points or better, if not they send us home. The “Quals” go like this: 180 - 214 = marksman,

215 – 255 = sharpshooter, 256 – 300 = expert. I ended up shooting a 180 even the first time, a 192 the second time, and a 201 the third time. When we shot we fired all 15 rounds at the target like this: Ready (draw pistol), Aim (aim pistol at center of target), Fire (fire all 5 rounds), Reload (grab clip and reload quickly), and Fire (fire all 5 rounds), Reload and Fire again.

             I am happy to qualify! I got close to sharpshooter, maybe next time.

Firing the 45 is fun! What an awesome day!!!

Tuesday September 15^th, 1987:

Payday! This morning after chow we lined up to collect and cash our paychecks. We did not train until after lunch. At 1230 we mustered in the training hanger for PR-24 baton training. At this training we learned where to strike with the PR-24: shoulders, wrists, and knees; strikes to the head are forbidden. We learned two ways to hold it properly: one by the handle – where you can spin it and two by the end where you can hook with the handle. We learned how to take a person down with handle and hook them with it across the neck – controlling them. Another fun training today!

           

Wednesday September 16^th, 1987:

           

This morning we mustered at the range again, this time to fire the M-14 rifle. This weapon is heavy and harder to fire than the pistol. Luckily we don’t have to qualify with scores. We just have to hit the target. The weapon fires a 7.62 millimeter round. The clip holds 30 rounds, we only loaded 10 rounds. The instructor gave us 10 chances to hit the target. I hit the bull’s-eye on my 7^th shot. However I hit the target on my 3^rd shot, my first two skidded on the ground. I like the pistol better.

Thursday September 17^th, 1987:

            Today we learned basic hand to hand training like a check block to a grab to a arm bar ending in a throw. We learned the basic hip toss if someone grabs you from behind which I already know from my karate training. I had to learn this as a yellow belt in Shuri Ryu Karate. All and all it was another fun day. I Love the Martial Arts!

KARATE RULES!!!

Friday September 18^th, 1987:

            Training was more advanced today, we learned cuffing techniques; by oneself and with a partner, how to avoid getting your weapon taken away; gun drawn, keeping gun in check while in holster, and keeping baton tucked in. And we learned how to how to keep a person in an arm bar while cuffing them. Last day of training! Watch schedule will be out tomorrow morning. Wait up – one of the guys is calling me. I might hang out at the USO tonight. I told him I will be right there. …More later.

            I am back. It is now 2115 and I just returned from a pool tournament at the USO with some of the guys. It was fun. We just played for beers.

Saturday September 19^th, 1987:

            At 0800 this morning we received our training certificates. Afterwards they told us our watch schedule.  I will be paired with PO-3 Langdon who is the same Petty Officer that brought me here. I have watch on Monday 0800 – Noon, Thursday Noon – 1600, and Sunday 1600 – 2000. I am in watch section 3. When not on watch I understood that we man the desk, answer the phone, and do other various duties. The Marine Corp mans the main gate, we man secondary gates, and vehicle gates. And we do Shore Patrol.

Sunday September 20^th, 1987:

            I am back in the barracks now chilling. I had one very fun weekend with Nina. She was waiting for me at the D’Fleet Open Bar. I spent the night with her on Saturday. We went up to Paisa Villa and her family hut. We rode mini scooters up to the hills where she lives. I ate with her family for dinner. I had Lumpia, Pancit, Brown Rice, and Seaweed. I did not drink the water. I was afraid of getting sick. We then walked along the lake and talked. Late that night when her family was asleep we snuck inside and made out. Then we fell asleep cuddled on the floor.

            When we woke up we went down to Subic City to walk around. I went shopping with her. I bought a hat to shade out sun. Then we went to Olongapo City and on to the go cart track and archery shooting. We had rice and BBQ on a stick for lunch. We spent most of the day archery shooting instead of riding the go carts.

            Tonight (Sunday) we went back up to Subic City and went bar hopping. Had Lumpia, my favorite thing to eat here, for dinner again. I did not want to leave I was having too much fun, but I had to head back. It is close to Taps now.

I am ready to hit the bunk.

Monday September 21st, 1987:

            Watch is busy during the day. I manned the Vehicle gate with PO-3 Langdon.

…Non stop traffic coming on and off the base. We had to open and close the gate each time a vehicle came through. We could not keep it open. During watch we wore dungarees, boots, and green utility watch belt, with a 45 CAL pistol, two clips, PR-24, and a clipboard in hand with the vehicles that are expected to pass.

            After watch we went to chow. At 1300 I helped man the security desk. I helped with check in, check out, issue of visitor passes, and answered the phone. I worked at the desk until 1600. I then went to dinner and was able to chill the rest of the day.

Tuesday September 22^nd, 1987:

            This morning, since I am a Boatswains mate Seaman, I mustered down at the pier to help tie up ships coming in. After lunch at 1300 I was off, so I went to the USO to play pool. Afterwards, I ate lumpia again and then I went back to the barracks and chilled.

Wednesday September 23^rd, 1987:

             Today after quarters, which we have at 0730, I helped offload supplies off the supply vehicles. At 1300 I was off again, so I went to the USO and hung out and played pool again. Then I went and hung out at the Playboy Club at Subic City. I returned to the barracks just before liberty expired.

Thursday September 24^th, 1987:

            Duty day again! In the morning I helped man the desk – answering the phone. In the afternoon I stood the Noon – 1600 watch with PO – 3 Langdon. 

We manned the Vehicle Gate again. It was not as busy today. We only had a few vehicles come through. After watch I turned in my weapons and chilled in the barracks. I wrote a letter home in the states to my Grandparents, one to Piper, and one to Michelle.

At 2100 I hit my bunk and went to sleep.

Friday September 25^th, 1987:

            After quarters today I went down to the pier again to help tie up ships coming in. I don’t mind, but I came here to do security as a change of pace from the ship. During my lunch break today, I thought about what I want to do and that is to be a Lithographer.  When I got off I went to the barracks to look for my LI book. I did not bring it with me, so I went and got one at the base NCO (Navy Career Occupation) Office and got another one. I started working on the First Class course tonight.

Note: I turned in my LI 3 & 2 in June. I got a 3.6 grade on it. My friend Anthony is the new Training P.O. He came onboard during the ship yards. We sparred in karate together on the Tomahawk Decks. He beat me until I got him with a mule kick…

Saturday September 26^th, 1987:

            I went out to hang out with Nina, but could not locate her today. So, I ended up going back to the barracks and working on my course book.

Sunday September 27^th, 1987:

            I left early this morning to find Nina. I departed at 0630. I ran into her at around 0845. She was happy to see me; she said she was trying to find me last night. We walked around a bit and then we went to the Catholic Church at Subic City. After church we bought some BBQ on a stick, Lumpia, and Rice. We took it to the Park and we ate there and hung out. This was a fun time!

           

Duty afternoon, I had to get back before 1300 for afternoon watch. So I kissed Nina good bye and rushed back. I made it back at 1245, changed quickly and then went to muster. I manned the desk like usual until watch. PO-3 Langdon and I manned the Vehicle Gate like usual during our 1600 – 2000 watch. Watch was slow and boring tonight. No vehicles came through the gate. After watch I wrote some letters and hit my bunk.

Monday September 28^th, 1987:

            After muster I worked at the pier again. What am I a Boatswain or a Security Guard? I am not sure if I want to be either. I really want to be a Lithographer. I wonder why I took this temporary assignment. Just to get off the ship for awhile?

Tuesday September 29^th, 1987:

It is just the same old routine now. I got watch again tomorrow.

This time it is the 2000 – 2400, then Saturday October 3^rd Midnight to 0400, Tuesday October 6^th 0400 – 0800, and I start all over again with the 0800 to Noon on Friday. October 9^th, 1987. Not too hard of a duty here.

Wednesday September 30^th, 1987:

            It was the slowest watch ever tonight. PO-3 Langdon and I manned the vehicle gate again. The gate remained closed and locked. No one came through.

           

The rest of the day was like this: manned the desk from 0800 – Noon. Went to lunch – Chicken and Rice Pilaf, cleaned the head from 1300 – 1500, chilled and listened to music 1500 – 1600, drew some pictures and then took a nap. Got up at 1900 and got ready for watch. At Midnight I turned in my gear and went back to sleep.

Thursday October 1^st, 1987:

            Today is payday!!! I went and got my $210.00 check cashed. Afterwards, I went to Lunch. We had Pizza for lunch. Pepperoni Pizza! This is one of my favorites. After wards they called liberty call at 1300. I departed the base right at 1330. I went to the Iciban Massage Parlor and got me a rub down... Cherry was not there.

            At 1700 I met Nina. We ate Dinner at Hung Chows Chinese. I had sweet and sour pork, shrimp fried rice, chicken adobe, and lumpia. I drank a couple San Miguel beers as well. Afterwards Nina and I hung out around town. I returned to the barracks just before Taps and hit my bunk to get some sleep for duty.

Friday October 2^nd, 1987:

            Mid watch! This watch started out slow and boring until around 0245. During this time there was a Drunk and Disorderly shipmate who tried to come through the Vehicle gate. He demanded for us to open up the gate. PO-3 Langdon told him to back off or he will be charged with article 111. He then told me to call the Chief of the Guard, Major Perez. I asked, “Are you sure?” He said, “Yes, this shipmate did this before.” I explained to the Major the situation. Shortly after I got off the phone some Marine Corp MP’s arrived, cuffed him, and took him in custody. This was the most exciting watch so far!

Saturday October 3^rd, 1987:

            I slept in until almost noon. I got up went and ate some lunch and then worked on my course book. I am almost done with it. I really hope to be an LI one day. If it doesn’t work out I might fall back and become a Master at Arms. Of course I have to be a third class petty officer to apply. I will focus on becoming an LI first.

Sunday October 4^th, 1987:

            …Just a usual day down at the pier tying up ships.

Monday October 5^th, 1987:

            The morning watch was slow until after 0600 when Vehicles started coming in and out the gate. It is just the same old stuff; nothing really exciting to write.

Tuesday October 6^th, 1987:

            I finally got away from the pier today, after muster I was told to put on my working blues, leggings, a white watch belt, check out a holster and 45, along with a

PR-24, and meet with PO-3 Langdon for 0800 to 1600 shore patrol. I said, “Cool”.

This is what I came here to do.

            For Shore Patrol we have assigned areas, ours was the Magsaysay District. We walked around and made sure shipmates stayed out of trouble. There were two people at noon to 1600 from the USS Cowpens joining us, SN Smith and PO-3 Jones.

The watch went by fast. We walked up and down the street variously peering in and out the clubs, open bars, and restaurants. We sat and ate lumpia at one of the open bars for lunch. PO-3 Langdon bought some for all of us.

            After work I finished my LI 1 and C. Drew some pictures of Mermaids. I like drawing mermaids. And listened to my walkman and chilled.

Wednesday October 7^th, 1987:

            After quarters today I went and turned in my LI 1 and C. I got a 3.4 on it. I have to keep the paper so, when I return to Long Beach California I can get it entered in my service record. When I returned I manned the desk until lunch, ate lunch, and then helped clean the 45 CAL pistols. This was kinda fun. We use a long thin brush to clean the barrel, lightly grease the slide and spring; release the slide to get it lubricated, and put the weapon back together. I cleaned two dozen pistols myself.

Thursday October 8^th, 1987:

            Another duty day: Stood watch from 0800 to Noon except at the second foot gate. We checked ID cards, gave pat down inspections with every 10 people, and checked bags. During the pat down we have the person step aside, place his hands on the wall, spread their legs and we pat him down from the top along the sides, then each leg individually using both hands on each side of the leg. We look for knives, contraband, and drugs. We check every bag that comes in. We look for the same stuff in bags as we do with a pat down: knives, contraband, and drugs.

            We check women’s bags as well. But, we cannot pat them down - Only if we suspect something unusual or strange about them. This did not happen today.

After watch we ate lunch and re-manned the gate until 1600. So, we did two watches. They do this at the foot gate to avoid two many turn over’s. This made the duty day go faster. So, next duty day I will have the 1600 to 2000 and 2000 to 2400. .

 Friday October 9^th, 1987:

Saturday and Sunday October 10^th and 11^th

            I hung out the entire weekend with Nina. We did our usual archery shooting and go cart riding on Saturday. Then on Saturday night we…On Sunday we went to Saint Michael’s Catholic Church to atone for our lustful sins. After Church we hung at the park and had a picnic again. We could not stop looking at each other at the park. I think I might truly Love her. Only God knows if I am met for her. We are very compatible together, though.

Monday October 12^th, 1987:

            Back to Duty! During our (mine and Langdon’s) 1600 – 2400 watch we encountered a suspicious female at around 2315. The watch was going great until then. We were so close to getting off watch without incident. Anyway PO-3 Langdon stopped her to check her hand bag. She was wearing a short blue skirt, a one piece white wrap over her breasts, and a black jacket. As Langdon was checking her bag I noticed a bulge under her skirt that was in the shape of a pocket knife. I told Langdon and was given permission to pat her down. It went like this: I said, “Maam will you please step over here.” She stepped toward me. “Place your hands on the wall and spread your legs.” I patted along the side of her body, but not her breasts (we are not allowed to do this); I then patted on each side of her leg. I then asked her what the bulge is under her skirt. She admitted that it was a pocket knife. I asked her to take out the knife. She did and Langdon took it from her. I then asked her, “Do you have anything else in your possession?” She replied, “No”. I then asked for one of her hands and put a cuff on it and her other hand and cuffed it. I then locked the handcuffs as not to get too tight on her wrists. I then took her inside the Security Office. I explained to the Supervisor what happened. I was told to un-cuff her and I did and put my cuffs back on my belt. They then took her to a room to interrogate her. She was a 5’ 4” to a 5’6”, 90 – 105 pounds, cherry brown hair, hazel eyes, wore dark prescription sun glasses, Hispanic female.

            Apparently she carried the knife for self defense. They took the knife and let her go. She was not a threat to anyone. In the Philippines one is not allowed to carry knives. Not even for self defense. I am glad I kept mine on the ship.

             I felt good to have spotted it. I was congratulated on a job well done. At 0100 we secured from the incident and of the watch. I was told I am off tomorrow. I went straight to my bunk, wrote down the incident in my journal, and fell asleep.

Tuesday October 13^th, 1987: 

            Slept in until 1030… I got up, shaved, took a long hot shower, got dressed in my uniform, and went to the chow line. I ate Salisbury steak, home fries, and drank a carton of milk. Afterwards I was told of a meeting of all security personnel. I arrived at the meeting at 1315. The meeting was about a change of duty. They are looking for Temporary at Duty personnel to go to Osaka Japan to help out on the Supply Base. I told them I want to go. I was not sure if I could since, I was assigned to the Philippines. The commander pulled some strings with my command and put some orders in for me. I hope I get them, even though I will miss Nina dearly!!! I have a part of my Heart for her!!!

Wednesday October 14^th, 1987:

            Surprise I worked at the pier again – tying up ships. WOW!!!

Thursday October 15^th, 1987:

            Last Duty here!  I found out that I will be flying out on Saturday to go to Japan. Yelpers, I got my orders. I stood my last watch with PO-3 Langdon with pride. The first part of the Midnight to 0800 watch was somewhat slow. We had about 50 - 60 people in the first 6 hours. After 0600 when people started to return to the base it got busier. We had a rush of people from 0600 – 0800. After watch and turning in my weapons and gear, I went straight to sleep.

Friday October 16^th, 1987:

            I woke up at 1645. I had to get up and go visit Nina for one last time. I ran into her at around 1800. I told her that I am leaving to go to Japan. She felt genuinely sad. I know now that she really feels for me. Since I don’t have my camera anymore, I asked her to send me a picture. I gave my command address. She gave me her address as well.

After we exchanged addresses we got a $10 motel room and made Love to each other all night! She was just too beautiful to let go of! I know she is the one for me. We blend together. I am going to marry her one day!!!

OSAKA JAPAN!

Saturday October 17^th, 1987:

            Last night when I got back to the barracks I had to get all my gear, uniforms, civvies, books, tapes, walkman, and drawing stuff packed. I departed from Manila to Osaka at 1215 PM. I arrived in Tokyo Japan at 2:15 PM. Then I took a train to Osaka.

I feel asleep on the train. When I arrived at the Naval Supply Depot I checked in, got my orders stamped, got issued a bunk and locker, and unpacked my gear. The Department Head, LCDR Stokes, welcomed me aboard.

             I was in utter awe when I saw the picturestic snow topped Mt. Fuji, the traditional Japanese architecture – the corkscrew roofs, and the mountain lakes. I know I am going to like it here. I am very happy to get these orders!

Sunday October 17^th, 1987:

            It is a day off Sunday, so I went exploring. I bought a disposable camera and went around town to take pictures. I took pictures of some of the buildings and people. The culture here is amazing. The people are very friendly and respectful!

             I watched some of the Shinto worship. Shinto means the way of the Gods. They are very spiritual and mythical here in Japan.

            For lunch I ate Yakasobi – beef with noodles. For dinner I had Sesame Fish, Rice, and Seaweed.  Both meals were good.

Monday October 18^th, 1987:

           

Here I stand watch every day on a rotational schedule from 0800 - 1600 I have duty every six days, for duty I assists at the Quarterdeck (Front Desk), fill in between the

1600 and 0800 watches, and help with stores.

            Watch today was busy. I have to salute a lot of officers coming on and off the

Supply Base, check everyone’s ID card, every bag, and escort Japanese dignitaries.

There are a lot of officers here!

Tuesday October 19^th, 1987:

                        Duty today already! I am in duty section six. I did not stand a morning watch today. I helped man the Quarterdeck, offloaded stores, and stood the 1600 – 2000 watch.

            Now I am chilling listening to music and writing some letters. I am writing one to Nina now. I am writing one to Olivia next.

Wednesday October 20^th, 1987:

            This morning I manned the Quarterdeck and stood watch from Noon to 1600. Afterwards I was off, so I went around the village to hang out. I ran into some American girls on a tour of Japan. They were sweet!

Thursday October 21^st, 1987:

            This morning I stood the whole watch, but was relieved for lunch. At lunch I ate shrimp and noodles, tea, and some type of cake. The watch went fast.

I don’t mind it, because I keep busy.

            After work I did laundry, drew some pictures, and read in my book. I am trying to save my money for the weekend. I cashed my paycheck at disbursing yesterday.

Friday October 22^nd, 1987:

            Today I stood watch until noon. I got knocked off at 1300, so I put some clothes, ditty stuff, my walk man, tapes, and drawing pad and kit in my bag. I am off to go exploring for this week end. I might go down to Tokyo.

            Well I am down in Tokyo now. I am chilling at a cheap $65 a night hotel room with a futon bed on the floor, little wooden table with four pillows on the floor around it, candles on a shelf above the futon, and a bathroom unlike you would find in America – the toilet has a spray to wash your butt. There is a TV in the room as well, but I am not watching it. I am writing in here waiting for my masseuse to come up. I am getting a Shiatsu massage for $50. Woo she’s her and she is beautiful.

Saturday October 23^rd, 1987:

            The massage was a little painful last night. I did not know it would be that painful. My body does feel like it is in rhythm; I am very loose. So I am going out to check out the Dojo’s today. I hope to run into the Master of Shurinju Ryu Karate here. I know the Shorinji Temple is near this area. I am excited now.

            I am back gathering my stuff I am taking the train back tonight. I don’t want to spend anymore monies, now. I am off to the Super Train of Japan.

            I am on a fast 100 mile per hour Train, now. I am watching the landscape fly by. The children of Japan are cute in their school uniforms. There is a group of girls on the train in front of me. I am going to relax now.

            It is now 2300 and I am back in the barracks room. I had a fun time down in Tokyo. Today I went walking around and took some pictures of a Confucian Shrine, a Temple (I am not sure if it was the Shorinji Temple), the people, and the City.

            At Noon I ate lunch of Beef and Noodles with stir fried Vegetables. Then I visited a couple Traditional Karate Dojo’s. I found out that Master Zenkoshi will be teaching next week end. I can’t wait to meet him. I called my Sensei and asked how I can get invited in. He said just to be very respectful, take shoes off at door, and bow upon entering. The Dojo is called: “Shorinji-Do Dojo”. I am excited and could hardly sleep.

Sunday October 24^th, 1987:

            Today I went to the gym and worked out. It has been awhile since I worked out. I worked on some of my Shuri Ryu Requirements for brown belt. I will be going up for brown when I return home on leave.

Monday October 25^th, 1987:

            Duty Day!!! Today during work I manned the Quarterdeck. I took this opportunity to find someone to take my duty on Sunday, so I can stay over at the Master Zenkoshi dojo (even though I did not get invited in yet.). SN Johnson said he would do it for $50. I said I will take his duty on Thursday even swap. He said, “But it is Sunday duty.” I told him I would give him $25. The deal worked out, so we put in a change of duty request via the Chain of Command. I am almost too excited to do duty!

            Tonight I stood the 2000 – 2400 watch outside at the foot gate. It was very cold out during watch tonight. I had only six people come through the gate. So I wore my Pea Coat I packed for my Dress Blues. Thank God I packed my Pea Coat.

Tuesday October 26^th, 1987:

            …Slept in until 0730. I went to Quarters at 0745. I did not eat breakfast and I was hungry. I had to suck it up though, because we were busy. Since this is a supply depot we received a lot of supplies coming in. I helped off load supplies all day.

Wednesday October 27^th, 1987:

            I am happy right now since my request chit got approved. Now I will have duty tomorrow and not again until Saturday November 6^th. …More Later.

Thursday October 28^th, 1987:

            During work today I rode on the passenger side of a supply truck, which in the states is the driver’s side. It was interesting riding on the opposite side. We went to Fukien Supply Depot to transfer supplies to go to the incoming ships. On the truck we had crates of canned food, bagged food, and mail to go to the Cowpens.

After we offloaded supplies we returned to Osaka. We arrived back at 1900.

            I immediately had to get ready for the 2000 – 2400 watch. The same watch I stood last duty day, because it is SN Johnson’s watch. The watch was kinda slow tonight. After watch I turned in my weapons and gear and went to hit my bunk. On my bunk was a letter forwarded to me from the ship to here. It was from Nina.

It read as follows:

            Dearest Tim my Love:

My heart is truly broken since you are not here by my side. Please return soon. I can not bear being here without you. I wish you did not take the duty to Japan. You broke my heart when you left. Tim, oh Tim-san, I Love you dearly. Come back to be with me.

            All my Love, Nina

I wrote her back instead of going to sleep. I truly miss her dearly and now I have second thoughts about leaving her. I want to go back and be with her. I went to sleep at 0200.

Friday October 29^th, 1987:

            We knocked off at 1300. I miss Nina, but I got to go visit the Master while I am here. So, I am departing on a train to the outskirts of Tokyo now. It is cold out tonight so, I am wearing my Pea Coat on liberty, along with my watch cap, and black gloves.

The train is departing at 1415. I am waiting now.

            I am here in Tokyo. I am checked in at the same hotel as last week end. I have to spurge on money. I had $125, now I am down to $65. I hope to meet Master Zenkoshi tomorrow. I went and found the Dojo tonight. It is neat looking. It has classic sliding wood doors at the entrance, the roof seems bigger than the square building – it is over hung all around, there are three large windows on the structure – one on each side, it is classic looking building. I brought my Gi I bought here in Japan last year with me. I also brought my Blue Belt. I am anxious for tomorrow.

            I am chilling in the hotel now watching an old Japanese movie on TV. I ate a light dinner of Rice, Poached Salmon, and Tampala (a type of spinach). I drank herb tea with my meal. Afterwards I meditated to prepare my mind for training.

            After this old Samurai movie –“The Seven Samurai” on TV I am going to sleep. This is a black and white classic. It has great sword action!

Saturday and Sunday October 30^th & 31^st, 1987:

            It is early Monday morning and I am back at the Supply Depot now. What an awesome weekend! When I arrived outside the Shorinji-Do Dojo at 0600 Master Zenkoshi was not there yet. So, I asked permission to enter the dojo, bowed, and took my shoes off outside the door. The Japanese Black Belt who was at the door looked at me and said: “But, you are American. We don’t allow Americans’ to train here” I told him that I train in Shuri Ryu Karate at home and I request to train here to honor the Master of the Pine Tree School. Permission was granted to me as an honor to the Master.

            I went in the back and changed into my Gi and bowed in again. The students, who were all wearing white belts, formed a circle around me.

The Black Belt told me to prove myself as a Martial Artist and show some. I ran Wansu Kata to the best of my ability, slowing down on each move to show my form, posture, and technique. It was good enough to prove myself, even though it was highly criticized. I was told to line up on the front row on the left as an honor student. We then began a very long warm up, which went like this: First we stretched our legs doing splits, hurdle stretch in which the Black Belt came up to me and pushed my head down forcibly, butterfly stretch in which we paired off and stood on each others legs, we also snaked down on each side, and did a frog down. We then stretched our arms and loosened up our bodies. By then it was a little after 0700. Three other Black Belts arrived in the Dojo – after each one we had to say, “Attention to the Dojo!” We then carried buckets of water in each hand – doing squat walks across the dojo. This really hurt my legs. Afterwards we did stone weight walks across the dojo – carrying a hundred pound stone by a rope on each side. The stone is only lifted about two inches off the ground when walking. By then it was 0800. Usually at home I have 2 hours of training. Here we have 2 hours of just a warm up.

            Then we did calisthenics of 100 knuckle push ups on the wood dojo floor, 100 sit ups in which we paired off dropping a medicine ball on each others stomach after each sit up, and we did 100 jumping jacks – 3 count style.

            We then lined up again as two other westerners arrived, one was Leon Jackson a brown belt from the Shoken-Ryu Karate-Do Traditional School of Okinawan Karate out of Redwood Northern California by San Francisco. The other one was Samuel Johansen a purple belt from the Shorinji-Ryu Karate-Do School of Midwest Te out of Tennessee. First they both had to do 100 push ups each for being late, then they had to prove themselves. Jackson ran a Kata known as Pinyan form 5 and Johansen ran a Kata known as Nahanchi. Both did will enough to be accepted into the dojo.

            They lined up along the right side of me. Then we all – being led by 4 black belts in the front – did 100 Jo-Dan Bari’s (upward blocks), 100 Ni-Dan Bari’s (downward blocks), 100 Chu-Dan Bari’s (outside middle block), and 100 Check Blocks with each hand. That was 200 blocks each. My arms were stinging. Then we did 100 Mai Geris (front snap kicks) with each leg, 100 Inside Sweep Kicks (known also as Sweeping the Mat) with each leg, 100 Yoko Geris (side thrust kicks) with each leg, and 100 back kicks with each leg. My legs were burning. Then we lined up a crossed the dojo and did 100 lunge punches up and down the dojo, we got in 20 punches going across each direction.

            By then it was after 10 O’clock. We lined back up in formation. We paired up to do techniques, I paired up with Jackson. We did basic form sparring techniques for an hour. Techniques were similar to Ippon Kumite’s we do in Shuri Ryu.

            We then sat down in circle and all ate a meal of fish and rice. We got up and picked up are bowls and chop sticks at 1130. …Ready to continue training.

            We fell in formation and were told to stand in a deep Kiba Dachi (horse stance). We stood there in the stance without moving until after noon. This was part of our discipline training, I guess. I was sweating and my legs were sore. The entire dojo was silent until we were finally put into an attention stance. An old Asian man of about 5-6, with grey hair, greenish eyes, and stern face, wearing a white Gi with a black Kimono over top, that was tied with an old worn out red belt came through the door, the man drug his left leg as he walked with his dragon carved wood cane. This man was the Great Master Zenkoshi. He appeared to me to be a very wise and seasoned karate master.

            Karate Ka Johansen laughed as he appeared in the Dojo. He mumbled, “What is this man going to teach us? He can’t even walk.” This was a big mistake.

Master Zenkoshi came up to him, swept him with his cane, and told him to leave the dojo. Johansen stumbled up, rubbed his leg, went and grabbed his bag of clothes and left the dojo out in the cold. He never returned.

            The rest of us were introduced to Master Zenkoshi. He then – even with his bad leg – taught us a Kata known as Sanchin. Sanchin is a spiritual breathing form. We learned the first 10 movements tonight. He had us work on it until we perfected it. There are no kicks in the form. It is entirely hand movements of outside blocking and scanning. We learned to breathe deeply on each movement. The first three movements are outside blocks from a Kiba Dachi. Then a left cat stance to a left outside block, followed by a right cat stance to a right outside block, then back into a left cat stance to a left outside block, then step behind back into a left cat stance to a left outside block, stepping back into a right cat stance to a right outside block, stepping back into a left cat stance to a left outside block, then step into a right cat stance to a right punch right into an outside block, step into a left cat stance to a left punch right into an outside block, and then a counter clock wise turn to the front right into a Kiba Dachi then a double outside block. This is an interesting breathing form. It actually wears you out through the tension of the movements and the breathing at the same time. It is a work out of the muscles.

            We worked on this until 1800 then we ate fish and rice again. At 1900 until 2200 we worked out on our own. Master Zenkoshi left the Dojo with 2 black belt escorts at around 2100. I was told I can sleep on one of the straw mats in the back. With the limited money I have I took them up on the offer. I took a steam shower and bath; this helped relax my muscles, then I fell right to sleep. I slept in my pajama bottoms and a T shirt. I lay on my back, covered up with a wool blanket, and fell right to sleep.

            At 0500 I was woken up for breakfast. I got dressed in my Gi again. For breakfast I ate rice with milk and honey and biscuits, exotic passion fruit, and drank soy milk. At 0600 we were back at training, we continued the movements of the Sanchin Kata. The rest of the movements are as follows: From a Kiba open hand to the left side rotate to a finger thrust then rotate up bringing the hand with fingers up to the chest, do the same move with the right hand, bring both hands out and in three times, then rotate into a left cat stance left hand scan, rotate back into a Kiba double outside scan, rotate into a right cat stance right hand scan, rotate back into a Kiba double outside scan, step into a left cat stance left hand scan, step into a right cat stance right hand scan, step back into a left cat stance left hand scan, rotate behind into a left cat stance left hand scan, step back into an hour glass stance double outside scan three times, step into a right short stance right spear hand thrust, step into a left short stance left spear hand thrust, step into a right short stance right spear hand thrust, rotate back into the front into a left cat stance and scan, step down back into a Kiba double downward scan, double upward scan, double outward scan, inward scan, outward scan, hands together and up, then down, hands made into a fist rotating to the sides of the body, as one comes back to attention. This is the whole form. We worked on it all day with Master Zenkoshi. He coached us well. He is very strict he disciplines us with his cane. If we don’t have a proper stance he hits us in the leg with his cane. If we don’t have our hands right he slaps our hand and corrects it. It was one hell of a work out. We worked on this until lunch; at 1100 we ate fish and rice again.

            I then took a steam shower and bath, changed into my civvies, and departed.

I thanked Master Zenkoshi and bowed to him. Upon departing I met a girl named Kari Yomaguchi who is the sister of the Sensei that I had to prove myself to, Sensei Kobi Yomaguchi. They said something in Japanese; she then grabbed me by the arm and told me to follow her. I did as I was told. She is a Japanese Masseuse – she was honored to give me a massage as her brother told her that I trained with discipline and respect.

We entered a Japanese Spa that was not far from the Dojo. We went in the back to a private room where I undressed completely and laid on the massage bench. Then she entered the room wearing nothing, but a kimono. She gave me a Shiatsu and loosened my body completely. Then she took off her kimono and gave me an erotic full body massage. I got hard of course, so she gave me a hand job. I came quick looking at her beautiful nude body. She is a very sexy and erotic young Asian woman.

            I ate dinner with her of beets, spicy stir fried noodles and shrimp, and tea with chrysanthemum flowers. At 1915 I departed Tokyo Japan on a train to Osaka Japan. I arrived back to the barracks late at night. I unpacked my clothes and gear.

At 2300 I hit my bunk and fell asleep.

Monday November 1^st, 1987:

            I woke up this morning very sore. I did not feel like doing any work today, but since it is payday it went easy. After chow I collected my pay check. Then I helped man the quarterdeck. That was pretty much my day. After work I wrote a letter to my Grandparents, my friend Tony, my pen pal Anna, and Nina again.

Tuesday November 2^nd, 1987:

            Same stuff different day. I manned the foot gate from 0800 to 1600 checking ID’s. After work I did some Karate training at the base gym. I, also, lifted some weights.

To summarize these entries: Yes I was a young man with raging hormones; however I took my training and duty seriously. I learned much in the three months I was stationed overseas between the Philippines and Japan. I trained with a master and learned much about honor and respect. I experienced a different culture and had fun.

Today I use what I learned in my own instruction to others. Teaching them about the culture of Asia, the discipline in training, to never give up and to keep striving, and teaching them not only the movements, but the history of it as well. This, I hope, is carried on to their lives. It builds their character. Especially we they go up for brown and black belt. I got my brown belt after arriving home from my overseas duty.

Making Brown Belt

            On Saturday December 19^th, 1987 I reported to the dojo downtown Moline for my 3^rd grade Brown Belt test. Of course I was nervous, but prepared. The test began at around 10 AM and ended at around 6PM. First we did a warm up of: 10 hand pushups, 10 triangle pushups, 10 knuckle pushups, 10 fingertip pushups, 10 back of hand push ups, 50 crunches and 100 jumping jacks. Then we stretched out like this: we stood with our back against the wall while a partner lifted our leg straight up to the wall. After that stretch we sat on the floor with our legs spread while the other partner had his leg spread pushing on each others leg, then we pulled each other down. Following that we did the butterfly stretch, snaked down, and frogged down. Then we did several basics: Jodan Bari (upward block), Nidan Bari (downward block), Chudan Bari (middle block), Check Block, 5 and 6 count Rice Line, Lunge Punch up and down the dojo, Mai Geri (front snap kick), Round Kick, Yoko Geri (side kick), Back Kick, and the Basic Spin Kick.

           

The rest of the test went as follows:

Kote Aite (Body Hardening);

1. Forearm to Forearm – we pared up and hit each others arms using an inside block.
2. Back of Arm to Back of Arm – with our partner using an outside block.
3. Punching the Stomach – the opponent stood in a Kiba while the aggressor punched him 10 times with each hand using a reverse punch. Then we switched.

Ippon Kumite’s (Form Sparring);

We pared up performing Ippon Kumite techniques 1 – 10 while switching off.

Kihons (Advanced Techniques);

We pared up performing Kihons 1 -10 while switching off.

Self Defense;

We each did 14 Self Defense Scenarios.

Taezu Nura Waza (Continuous Flow Forms);

We pared up performing 8 Taezu Nura Waza’s against each other.

Sparring;

We sparred against one another for 6 minutes each.

Kata’s (to shape and form);

We performed the following kata’s without flaw:

1. Taikyoku form 1
2. Taikyoku form 2
3. Taikyoku form 3
4. Wansu (Dragon Boy Form)
5. Anuku (Breathe and Step Form)
6. Nahanchi (Iron Horse Form)
7. Sanchin (Spirit Form)
8. Empi Sho (One Warrior)
9. Go Pei Sho (White Swallow on the Beach Form)
10. Dan Enn Sho (Peacock Form)

We then did several joint locks and throws known as Jujitsu Te and ended the test with 20 minutes of in class meditation. Following that we lined up in formation, turned over our belts to the Sensei (teacher), bowed to the teacher, changed out of our Gi’s (karate uniforms), and then went home. When I arrived back home I was exhausted. But I ate the Tuna Casserole my mom made and went up to the bedroom I grew up in and fell asleep.

Note before I returned back to my Naval command my Sensei informed me that I did extremely well on my brown belt test and congratulations on your promotion to brown!

In the year 1994 I was promoted to first degree black belt. The black belt test was similar to brown, but we did the basic 100 times each like when I trained for that weekend in Japan. It was intense and exhausting.

My promotion dates in Shurinju Ryu Karate Do are as follows:

1. 9^th Kyu White Belt – January 1982
2. 8^th Kyu White Belt - March 1982
3. 7^th Kyu Yellow Belt – March 1982
4. 6^th Kyu Green Belt – June 12^th, 1984
5. 5^th Kyu Blue Belt – January 17^th, 1985
6. 4^th Kyu Purple Belt – November 15^th, 1986
7. 3^rd Kyu Brown Belt – December 15^th, 1987
8. 2^nd Kyu Brown Belt – N/A
9. 1^st Kyu Brown Belt – September 15^th, 1989
10. 1^st Dan Black Belt Shodan – January 18^th, 1994
11. 2^nd Dan Black Belt Nidan Sempai – April 20^th, 1998
12. 3^rd Dan Black Belt Sandan Dai Sempai – January 8^th, 2000
13. 4^th Dan Black Belt Yondan Renshi – September 21^st, 2005
14. 5^th Dan Black Belt Godan Sensei – March 24^th, 2011
15. 6^th Dan Black Belt Rokudan Kyoshi -  March 18^th, 2013
16. 7^th Dan Black Belt Shichidan Kyoshi – In Progress

The rest of the black belt ranks are as follows:

17. 8^th Dan Black Belt Hachidan Kyoshi
18. 9^th Dan Black Belt Kudan Shihan (Master)
19. 10^th Dan Black Belt Judan Hanshi (Grand Master)

As you can see karate is a lifetime commitment. I use this commitment as a

pinnacle in my life; a pinnacle of which my life evolves around. This pinnacle is what strives me to never give up in my pursuits in life. Throughout my naval career I never gave up no matter how I was treated. In all my studies in college I strived to learn and I never gave up because of this pinnacle. It is the main focus of my life, not even my family is as strong as the pinnacle of karate.

            I credit this pinnacle of karate as what led me to this master’s degree. Karate is truly the only thing I never gave up on. It has always been my striving force in life. Even after I was injured and had to give up karate for awhile, I knew it would not be forever. When I ran the in-house dojo (school) and quit teaching in 2010, a year later I was teaching again. Then today I am back to teaching private classes. This never deterred not even when I am injured. Today I still have cervical stenosis, muscle damage, equilibrium imbalance, nerve damage, and much pain and tingling. This still does not slow me down in my goals in life. Right now my goal is to earn this masters degree.

            As I struggled through Western Illinois University after retiring form the Navy in 2007 I never gave up. I spent nearly six years at Western. There were several times in when I wanted to quit. My wife told me not to, because going to college for me at that time was like having a full time job. The extra monies I earned through the G.I. Bill were a god sent. I was not receiving disability monies from my injuries yet.

            So I had to continue through the struggles at Western just to earn my BA in Arts degree; which I finally received in 2012. Without this I would not be going for my Master’s in Arts degree. My wife is my second pinnacle I lean on, along with my children. Jill, my wife, is going through college now herself. She is studying medical coding at Black Hawk College. I encouraged her, along with my children to pursue their education. My oldest son Tim received an academic scholarship to go to the University of Illinois in an Engineering program. After he completes his BS there, he plans on going for a Master’s in Math. And my youngest son, Ken is doing better in school. He got an A plus on his last final in high school. So this college education I have been pursuing for most of my life not only is leading to this master’s, but is influencing my family as well.

            In summery – I have gone through many struggles in my life; struggles that started when I was a child growing up. Struggles that helped me learn, grow, and over come obstacles in my life. Without these struggles I probably would not be the same person I am today.  These struggles started in my family growing up. My father was temperamental and scared me; while my grandfather was funny and he humored me.      My mother never gave up on me, my father always told me what I cannot do; but he also gave me two quotes to live by which I still live by, my twin sister and I were close at first then went our ways, and my younger sister Tammy stood up for me in school. We were in the same class since I was held back a grade, due to slow learning. This at times did embarrass me.

            The day that I got hit in school in 9^th grade woodshop my sister confronted the bully in the hall way and bit him in the arm. This somewhat embarrassed me, because it made me feel like I could not fight for myself. On-the-other-hand it made me feel good at the same time, knowing that I had a sister that cared that much for me. I knew, however, that I had to learn how to fight so I could defend myself.

            I joined a self defense class and then later I joined the local karate studio downtown. I started out slow in karate, but never gave up in it. As I started to progress in the ranks I learned much about myself. I strived to go up and went up through all the Kyu’s (lower ranks) and Dan’s (upper ranks). And now I am a 6^th Dan Kyoshi Black Belt. Karate became the pinnacle in which I evolved my life around. This pinnacle helped me focus in my life, helped me to overcome my struggles, helped me to control pain after getting injured, and helped me to continue in my lives studies of self improvement, in business, in education, in the arts, and in working with children.

            This later led me to volunteer much of my time in tutoring and mentoring others. I found that joy in giving to others and helping them to grow. I found that joy of teaching karate to adults and children. Which I did on board the ship in teaching self defense to the security team and in creating a ship self defense program. Then later opening my own dojo at home and teaching karate classes to the communities children. One child in particular became my karate prodigy. Her name is Jana. She became like a daughter to me. She excelled and grew past the boys in her class and earned her junior black belt before them. I knew then that I had a way with children.

This way of children helped me gain an understanding within myself; an understanding that helped me to grow spiritually, mentally, and one that made me realize that I want to adopt a daughter one day. This understanding led to a passion to help others in their lives. In my life I knew how much I have overcome and I knew that I can use that to give back to the community.

Even while in my naval career I knew that I could help others. I did this by donating to charities and working with children international. This made me feel good with all the struggles I went through while I was in. My pinnacle I stood on, karate, led to my desire to become a Master at Arms. I never gave up on that, no matter how I was treated, picked on, or put down. The pinnacle of karate helped me to focus through out my naval career.

In my naval career I started out as a deck seaman on the battleship New Jersey. In which I worked on the gun crew in the main sixteen inch gun battery as a Lower Powder Door Operator.  Became a Boatswains mate third class where I worked as the Aviation Passageway Supervisor, Tug Team Supervisor, and later became a Master Helmsman.

Then I became a Boatswains mate second class in which I became a Boat Coxswain. Later I became a cook known as a Mess Management Specialist onboard the Richmond K. Turner in which I worked as the Pantry Cook. Then later became a Damage Control Supervisor. Then I did boarding team operations on the U.S.S. Underwood FFG36, went to shore duty in Newport Rhode Island where I worked doing various security duties and found my calling to be a master at arms. After that my rating got changed to Culinary Specialist while serving onboard the Belleauwood. I endured most of my naval struggles onboard the Belleauwood. I was held back many times. This ship is where my hatred grew and karate was no longer my pinnacle, but hatred was. This hatred led me to become temperamental like my father, not humorous anymore. After overcoming this hatred and regaining my focus I finally became a Master at Arms. This led to my drive to become a Security Technician and become an officer. I later became a Lieutenant in the Sea Cadet Core. Then I retired from naval service.

            After retiring I went straight back to college and earned my AA Business at American Intercontinental University, then struggled for over five years at Western Illinois University in which I earned a BA in Arts. While in the service I concentrated on self improvement while reading Psychology Today magazines, and taking many courses like Religious Petty Officer, did Practical Afloat College Education in World Religion and Business, earned a BS in Business Studies through the Navy Campus and an AAS in General Education at the Community College of Rhode Island. I have that drive instilled in me to continue to learn and grow.

           

This drive to continually learn and grow in my life, the pinnacle of karate in which my life evolves around, and the support of my family is now leading me to this Masters in Arts with a minor in Sociology degree here at Regina University. With out the help, however, of the Navy College Office that focus would have been lost again. If I did not sign up on line through the N.C.O., I would not be doing this masters course. Karate is the pinnacle and my drive, but without the Navy College Office I would not be doing my masters. The Navy College Office had Regina University accept all of my Navy College Credits earned from boot camp, through all the various courses I took like Religious Petty Officer, certificates earned especially in security, and other college credits. Without this I would have been back to square one; and would have been doing the Masters in Education degree program at Concordia University instead.

I am grateful to have had this opportunity to study here at Regina University Palma Military Campus. I am grateful that many of the courses I took at Western Illinois University in woman’s studies, sociology, and human sexuality lead to a minor in sociology. And I am grateful that my military credits lead to the masters in arts degree.

In concluding this report – I will say that it has been a long lives journey. I am happy to finally finish this chapter in my life. Now that I earned a Masters degree I know that I can accomplish anything. I will use this now to look toward the future.

The future is never for certain. I do know what I plan to do; that is to open my own art studio one day. This will be like no other art studio. It will be a place that kids can come and draw and display their work. It will be a place where I can continue to mentor, inspire, and uplift them. I will not only teach art classes, but do my private tutoring as well. This is how this degree will be used. This degree in the arts perspective will be used as I teach arts and run my business; and in the sociology perspective will be used as I mentor and inspire others, guiding them through their own understanding.

This is my dream and dreams do come true if one works hard enough for it. I have accomplished much and I have overcome much. Others see that out in the community. I am a man who never gives up and I never well.

Lastly in my future I plan on finishing my auto-biography I am writing and get it published one day. I love to sing in the choir; and I plan to get even better at singing through voice lessons. And I will continue to volunteer and help others through the community. This July I am going to help with Children International at Cartagena Columbia and visit my sponsored child. When I get back I will use that experience to continue to help and guide others; through art and music. This is my life and there is still more to do after this master’s degree is complete. Thanks.

Summery of my college degrees and certificates:

1. Naval Security Training Certificate – Subic Bay Philippines (1987)
2. Boatswains mate Third Class Certificate – U.S.S. New Jersey BB-62 (1989)
3. BS Business, minor Information Systems – Navy Campus Long Beach CA (1990)
4. Boatswains mate Second Class Certificate – U.S.S. New Jersey BB-62 (1990)
5. Boat Coxswain Certificate – Long Beach Naval Base (1991)
6. Pantry Cook Certified – U.S.S. Richmond K. Turner CG-20 (1993)
7. AA Culinary Arts, soup and sauce cook – Johnson and Wales University  Charleston South Carolina  (1995)
8. Mess Management Specialist Second Class Certificate – U.S.S. John C. Stennis CVN – 74 Virginia Beach Virginia (1996)
9. AAS General Education – Community College of Rhode Island Newport RI (00)
10. Armed Pier Sentry Course Certificate – San Diego California (2000)
11. Black Water Security Training Certificate – San Diego California (2001)
12. OC Spray Course Certificate – San Diego California (2001)
13. Culinary Specialist First Class Certificate – U.S.S. Belleauwood LHA -3 (2002)
14. Naval Corrections Officer Certificate – Lockland Air Base Texas (2003)
15. Master at Arms First Class Certificate – Bahrain (2004)
16. Security Technician Officer Certificate – Bahrain (2004)
17. Sea Cadet Officer Training Certificate – Great Lakes Illinois (2005) (2013)
18.  AA Business – American Intercontinental University Schaumburg Illinois (2006)
19. BA Arts – Western Illinois University Macomb Illinois (2012)
20. Master of Arts, minor Sociology – Regina University Palma (2013)