Our training is dedicated to the memory of Grandmaster Thomas J. Wilson – a master instructor and student, husband, father, friend, class act and the ultimate package! Master Wilson embodied the ideals of a true martial artist and passed along to his students the sense of humilty and respect, strong work ethic, dedication, discipline and a great sense of humor. Grandmaster Wilson was a competitive fighter and a lover of people. He held deep loyalty to his country and the men and women who fight everyday for our freedom. He often drew parallels between the martial ways of war and our training, and aimed to develop a mindset in his students of self-awareness, vigilance and courtesy. He will never be replaced; he was one of a kind. He leaves a legacy of fond memories for those who knew him, and carry on his spirit.

Tom Wilson began training in Judo, Shotokan Karate and Tae Kwon Do in the early 70s, earning his first black belt in 1978. He also met his future wife, Carol, and together they opened the Black Belt Academy in 1985. The school's name was Body Weapon/Black Belt Academy. "Body Weapon" signified the creative and dynamic tools and potential possessed by our human bodies, and the Black Belt Academy represented the disciplined approach and traditional teachings of a martial arts system.

Master Wilson earned the rank of 4th degree, or Master rank, under Dr. Dong Ja Yang in 1988. He felt fortunate to be surrounded by many black belts who were eager to learn and this provided great motivation to Master Wilson himself. He was an incredible martial artist; a skilled kicker - anyone can see some of the pictures of his impressive high kicks and breaks and know that Master Wilson led by example. As an instructor, he set the tone and demonstrated impeccable teaching skills and practitioner capabilities.

Grandmaster Wilson taught with passion and compassion. He acknowledged and respected the lineage from where we came, respecting our seniors and helping our juniors. As technique and expectation evolve, we carry on the tradition of developing our students to eventually become better than their teachers.