Gratitude

[Coach Larson]

As I near the end of my 15-month tour in Afghanistan (2 weeks to go!) I wanted to take a moment and publicly express my thanks to Coach Sonnon and the RMAX community.

This quote from the Elizabethan sword master George Silver echo for me that how I feel about my practice of CST over the duration of my deployment. Substitute the 'CST' or 'clubbells' for the word 'weapon(s)' below and you will begin to understand what I mean.

"And moreover, the exercising of weapons puts away aches, griefs, and diseases, it increases strength, and sharpens the wits. It gives a perfect judgement, it expels melancholy, choleric and evil conceits, it keeps a man in breath, perfect health, and long life. It is unto him that has the perfection thereof, a most friendly and comfortable companion when he is alone, having but only his weapon about him. It puts him out of fear, & in the wars and places of most danger, it makes him bold, hardy and valiant." - George Silver, 1599

Through the incredible technology of the internet (for which I am also thankful) the RMAX community has been my constant companion. Thanks to all who have expressed their concern and support. I truly appreciate it.

During this deployment there have been many times that I have felt displaced and alone and sometimes in "places of most danger". Coping with the the many challenges here is a daily struggle. My daily personal practice of CST and the interaction with the RMAX 'Tribe' has been an anchor for me while I have been separated from everything else that is familiar to me. It has not only help to sustain me physically but mentally and emotionally as well.

My thanks to the RMAX staff for all you have done for me not to mention the extra hassle of having to ship packages to an APO. But even more thanks for the great work you do to keep RMAX going strong and progressing forward.

Special thanks to Coach Murdock for all the encouragement, advice, and support over the last year. It has been invaluable to me.

And finally, tremendous thanks to the founder and creator of this whole thing, Coach Sonnon. I respect and admire your dedicated support for veterans and your deep care and concern for all of your students and athletes. I am truly honored to be counted among your cadre.

May RMAX keep growing an may you all keep on flowing!
Peace be with you my friends!

[Shane]

Thank you for what you do in keeping this great nation safe! Your sacrifices and service are deeply appreciated.

[Ryan Murdock]

It'll be good to have you back safely on this side of the pond, amigo.

You're a constant example to the entire Cadre, not only for the sacrifices of your profession, but in your dedication to CST. Anytime someone whines to me about not having time - whether that be time to train or time to write an article for RMAX Mag - I mention my friend Jeff, who manages to write articles for the magazine, to teach Prasara and fencing classes, and to excel at his personal practice of CST, all while living and working in an active war zone. There isn't a hell of a lot they can say to that.

You've done tremendous work during your deployment, and the strides you've made in your personal practice have been truly impressive. I'm looking forward to seeing you at the next event, and to hearing all about it.

[Coach Flanagan]

Jeff,

Great news - glad to hear you're on your way back!

[Doughboy]

Sir, first of all, thank you for your selfless service to the nation. Secondly, it's great to see the portability of the CST protocol, that it can be practiced anywhere.
I was in the military (Army) 30 years ago. I wished that I had had a Scott Sonnon, a CST program, a RMAX community. I'm fortunate to have the 'now' though. And the freedom to experience such an unique system as CST.
Again, thank you for your service. God speed a safe journey home.

[Coach Gostnell]

Glad you're almost on your way home, Jeffrey. Safe travels, and thank you for your service.

[Kathryn Woodall]

Jeff,
I look forward to hearing the report that you are safely home!

[Cody Fielding]

Thank YOU for the type and level of sacrifice those of us not in the military scarcely understand.

It will be good to have you home,
C-

[Joseph David]

Thank YOU for the type and level of sacrifice those of us not in the military scarcely understand.

It will be good to have you home,
C-

I second Cody.
Safe home !!!