The Moo Duk Kwan® has a long and honored relationship with the U.S. Military. It was through their efforts and sacrifices, that the Moo Duk Kwan®, came to the United States. As many U.S. Military personnel were stationed in South Korea, after WWII, and the Korean War, they joined many of the martial arts classes that were held on military installations throughout Korea after 1945. Of course, in the early years of the Moo Duk Kwan®, many of them became students of instructors who were granted permission to teach on such installations as Osan Air Force Base. Once they completed their training and reach dan level, and received their Dan Bons, after their military tour was over, they returned to the U.S. Several of them started teaching Tang Soo Do® (Soo Bahk Do®) upon returning to their homes. The growth of Tang Soo Do® became known in areas like, California, Hawaii, in cities like Detroit, New York City, and New Jersey, as well. Many of them were recognized as Pioneers of the Art in the U.S., during the 75th Anniversary.
Several of the photos below show some of the military members who brought and helped sustain the art of Tang Soo Do/Soo Bahk Do® in the United States. Some are even Charter Members, who helped create the U.S. TSDMDK Federation® in 1975.
So we remember to honor those who came before us, and served in the many military services of the United States, especially on Veterans Day 2022. There are many that are not mentioned in this article, but we have mentioned them in several articles in the past. They are searchable articles. I hope you have a chance to see them. And if you run into your instructor, who you know served, take a moment and ask them about their service, and remember to thank them for their dedication to their country and to the Moo Duk Kwan®. We honor them all. Kamsahamnida. Soo Bahk!
