Future Soldiers, enlistees get to experience one part of Army Basic Training (military combatives).
Future Soldiers learn from the Master of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
COLUMBUS, Ohio – World-renown, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Champions Master Carlson Gracie, Jr. as part of “Operation Let’s Roll in support of the U.S. Army Columbus Recruiting Battalion’s Future Soldier Program July 6, 2012, from 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Gracie and his team volunteered their time in support of the men and women who are answering America’s call to duty.
“ I am a huge supporters of the armed forces and we couldn’t think of a better way of showing our appreciation by sharing our warrior wisdom, personally thanking them for their sacrifice they are making by enlisting in the Army and introducing them to the gentle art of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ), which is the foundation of the Army’s Combative System,” said Gracie.
Approximately, 40 future Soldiers from the Columbus Recruiting Battalion (BN) attended the future Soldier retention event and learned about the history of Gracie BJJ, watched the BJJ champions demonstrate techniques that they will learn during basic training as part of Army Combatives
Many key Center of Influence (COIs) where in attendance to include Rick Isbell, Veterans Ombudsman, City of Columbus, who presented a proclamation from Mayor Michael B. Coleman in appreciation and recognition of the Future Soldier Program – Operation Let’s Roll.
“Have to commend the U.S. Army in putting on such a wonderful event and seeing the smiles on the young men and women faces,” said Isbell who is a Desert Storm combat Air Force Veteran.
He added: “It was obvious the event provided the recruiters and future warriors an opportunity to stay connected. I am kind of envious because there was nothing like this special event when I was waiting to report to basic training.
The event was such a great success, Gracie has expressed an interest to move forward with Operation Roll and execute the Future Soldier Program throughout USAREC starting with Chicago and Cleveland BN.
“I was so impressed with the Soldiers and future soldiers that I am committed to continuing to sharing my warrior wisdom in support of the Army’s mission of putting them in boots,” said Gracie who resides in Chicago.