Story by Spc. David Dyer, 3-1 Cav Public Affairs Liaison
CONTINGECY OPERATING STATION SHOCKER, Iraq – Most nights at COS Shocker a pile of 40 or more boots are sitting outside the entrance to an otherwise unremarkable tent. This is the Dojo for the Karate class. The students are a mixture of Dragoons from Troop A, 3-1 Cavalry and Saber contractors. Led by Major Rob Boone, a third degree black belt in Matasubuyashi Shurin-Ryu with over 12 years of martial arts experience, students there have the chance to learn and progress through the ranking system and earn belts that will be recognized wherever they may go after they leave Iraq. Boone, who has been a certified karate instructor for four years, is assisted in by Maj. Charles Krieger, a first degree black belt in Jujitsu with five years of experience.
“I really enjoy it” said Staff Sgt. Bill Morris of B Troop 3-1 Cavalry who is currently attached to Assassin Troop at COP Shocker, “I get to pick up new skills and work out at the same time.”
The temperature inside the crowed dojo tent climbs quickly as the students practice the various katas and work on conditioning drills. By the end of the night’s lesson smiles and jokes are exchanged as boots are pulled back on and laced up.
“It’s a great way to relieve stress…and a lot of fun,” said Falak Mir Shafi, a Soldier in Troop A.
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