Master Thomas Wilson passed away February 13, 2009. As most of you know, Master Wilson had a long fight with cancer.

Mrs. Garrison and I met Master Wilson at the Black Belt Academy over 20 years ago. He had invited us to the Black Belt Academy to introduce Hapkido to his Taekwondo program. Our first impression of Master Wilson was how gracious and respectful he was. Our second impression was how willing he was to learn and open his school and his students to new and different ideas. Not only was the Black Belt Academy pristine in appearance and cleanliness but each and every student was positive and reflected the quality of instruction that Master Wilson provided.

Throughout the years, Master Wilson developed a relationship beyond that of student to teacher. Master Wilson and I developed a close relationship even though we were on different coasts.

Master Wilson was always positive even though he was a master with significant experience he was always open for learning. He was an exceptional role model for his students by demonstrating that no matter what their rank, they were expected to gain as much information as possible.

In this day and age when so many so called “masters” have made up their own systems and found someone to rubber stamp a high rank certificate Master Wilson worked unceasingly and earned, through heard work and study, each and every promotion he received. He expected each and every one of his students to follow his example by studying diligently and training hard to earn their promotions.

President Kim and the board of directors of the World Oriental Martial Arts Federation have approved Maser Wilson for the rank of Grand Master status. The promotion was to be presented to Master Wilson at the next WOMAF seminar. This promotion is well deserved and a tribute to a fallen warrior, an excellent teacher and devoted husband and father. Grand Master Wilson’s passing has left a huge void in the martial arts community. He will truly be missed.

Grand Master James R. Garrison, 9^th DAN

Vice-President, WOMAF

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