Future Soldiers learn from Masters of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

World-renown, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) Champions Master Carlson Gracie, Jr. and Professor Carlos Carvalho, hosted “Operation Let’s Roll underwritten by the Military Veterans Education Foundation (MILVETS) in support of the U.S. Army Columbus Recruiting Battalion’s Future Soldier Program.

Carvalho, Gracie and MILVETS Trustee Al Burzynski volunteered their time in support of the men and women who are answering America’s call to duty.

“Gracie and I are 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 Carvalho who serves as the Executive Director of the Abu Dhabi Combat Club (www.adccamerica.com).

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 they will learn during basic training as part of Army Combatives and participated in BJJ specific group drills.

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 “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 and Carvalho has expressed an interest to move forward with "Operation Let's Roll" execute the Army recruiting support program throughout the country.

“I was so impressed with the Soldiers and future Soldiers that I am committed to continuing to pledge my time, talents and resources in support of the Army’s recruiting and retention efforts,” said Gracie who resides in Chicago.