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Bujutsu adds to Airmen, families tool boxes

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Victoria Sneed
  • 99th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. --  Every student bows before entering the mirrored studio. Each one takes the time to remove their shoes and work together to align the mats in the proper formation, then patiently await instruction.

Class begins with stretching, "Ichi, ni, san, shi..." the students count in Japanese in unison.

They are then paired off by size and ability: men and women ranging from approximately eight years old to early twenties, all working on the same skills.

"No, it's a hip throw," says DeAndre Scott, 4th Degree Black Belt and renshi, or instructor, of the Genchi Dojo at the Warrior Fitness Center on Nellis Air Force Base, Nev.

He guides each student firmly but gently to the correct form, hand placement and pressure point.

"Nesei Bujutsu is good for anybody, any fitness level," said Scott. "They just have to have a desire to learn."

Scott has been teaching three classes a week at the Warrior Fitness Ccenter on Nellis for almost four years. His classes are open to anyone, ages six years old and up, with base access.

"Seeing the kids cherish and appreciate what you teach and helping troubled kids is the most rewarding," said Scott.

The Japanese form of jujutsu Scott teaches isn't just for fun or recreation; it can be applied in daily situations.

"This training helps prepare [Airmen] better for deployments," said Scott. "They work hand-in-hand with our sister services at the front line, knocking down doors or in convoys, its helps to train them in close quarters battles and weapons retention."

Students are taught to assess and deescalate a situation, and detain someone without injury to themselves or others.

"What we learn here gives you more tools for your tool box," said Vince Marciano from the 99th Security Forces Squadron. "If necessary I would be able to use what I learn to apprehend a person without using unnecessary force."

The classes are not only aimed at military members but their family members as well.

Scott teaches a weekly children's classes, and once a month he focuses on bullying.

"How do you keep yourself from being harmed, if things are being taken, how to let an item go and not get hurt is important," said Scott. "Sometimes it is easier to get yourself out of the situation. Martial arts does not make you invincible but we hope to give you a fighting chance."

Scott is the Western Regional Director for Nisei Bujutsu and was recently inducted into the Martial Arts Hall of Fame by the World Head of Family Sokeship Council of Nisei Bujutsu.

For more information visit http://nellisforcesupport.com/Warrior_Fitness_Center.html or email DeAndre Scott at GenchiDojo@gmail.com.