From the Mat to the Battlefield: The Growing Trend of Martial Arts Instructors Serving in the National Guard
Abreu Campos, a Brazilian native and owner of Ground Strike Grappling in Columbiana, Alabama, embodies a rising trend: martial arts instructors answering the call to serve in the Army National Guard. Recently deployed for the first time, Campos isn’t going alone. Two of his longtime students, Devin Shumate and Trent Langford, are deploying alongside him, a testament to the values instilled within the walls of his jiu-jitsu studio.
The Disciplines Align: Why Martial Artists Develop Excellent Soldiers
The connection between martial arts training and military service isn’t accidental. Both demand discipline, respect, physical fitness, and a commitment to continuous improvement. Campos himself noted the commitment and discipline he observed in Shumate and Langford from the beginning, leading him to believe the military would be a natural fit for them. This inherent alignment makes martial arts studios fertile recruiting grounds for the National Guard.
“I always thought that the military would be something that would fit perfectly on them,” Campos stated. This sentiment highlights a growing recognition within the military of the transferable skills honed through martial arts practice.
Immigrant Stories and Patriotism: A New Wave of American Service
Campos’s story is particularly compelling. Arriving in the United States from Brazil in 2012, he joined the military in 2021, seeking to give back to the country that offered him opportunity. “It’s to pay back and give back to the country that gives me a chance to become somebody to be what I am today,” he explained. This echoes a broader narrative of immigrants embracing American citizenship and demonstrating their patriotism through military service.
His experience resonates with a growing number of individuals who, like Campos, see military service as a pathway to belonging and a way to express gratitude for the opportunities afforded to them in the United States.
The Power of Mentorship: Building Bonds That Extend Beyond the Dojo
The dynamic between Campos, Shumate, and Langford exemplifies the powerful mentorship often found within martial arts communities. Shumate described Campos as a father figure, emphasizing the deep bond that motivated him to join the National Guard alongside his instructor. This sense of camaraderie and mutual support is a key factor in the success of these deployments.
Langford added, “Having somebody come from Brazil over here and being proud to serve in the military, it makes me proud to serve.” This highlights the unifying power of shared service and the ability of the military to transcend cultural differences.
Beyond Physical Skills: The Mental Fortitude Developed Through Jiu-Jitsu
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, in particular, emphasizes problem-solving under pressure, strategic thinking, and resilience – qualities highly valued in military operations. The ability to remain calm and focused in challenging situations, a hallmark of skilled jiu-jitsu practitioners, translates directly to the demands of combat and peacekeeping missions.
Campos’s journey, from arriving in the U.S. With limited resources to becoming a respected martial arts instructor and a dedicated soldier, is a testament to the transformative power of discipline, perseverance, and a commitment to service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When did Abreu Campos move to the United States?
A: Abreu Campos moved to the United States from Brazil in 2012.
Q: What branch of the military does Abreu Campos serve in?
A: Abreu Campos serves in the Army National Guard.
Q: What is the name of Abreu Campos’s martial arts studio?
A: Abreu Campos owns and operates Ground Strike Grappling in Columbiana, Alabama.
Q: When did Abreu Campos join the military?
A: Abreu Campos joined the U.S. Military in 2021.
Q: What is the infantry division deploying?
A: All three are deploying in the infantry division for the first time.
Did you know? The Alabama National Guard has a long history of service, dating back to the Revolutionary War.
Pro Tip: Consider supporting local martial arts studios and veteran organizations in your community.
We encourage you to share this story and learn more about the dedication and service of our National Guard members. Explore other articles on our site to discover more inspiring stories of individuals making a difference in their communities, and beyond.
