BOSTON -- The Boston crowd formed a circle while two Marines engaged each other with weapons in hand. Within seconds, one Marine was left standing while one Marine was on the ground. When Marines fight each other, it can only be for one reason – Marine Corps martial arts.
Martial arts instructor trainers demonstrated the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program to Boston residents at Joe Moakley Park, May 8, during family day for Marine Week Boston.
“We like to show people what Marine Corps martial arts is all about,” said Sgt. Steven N. Richardson, an instructor trainer from Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va., and native of Broken Arrow, Okla. “It’s interesting to see how the crowd reacts to our techniques and demonstrations. Most of the time people will ask us if we were hurt during the demo, and they are surprised when we say no.”
During the demonstration, Bostonians were able to step up and get a feel for MCMAP. Two children volunteered and got a chance to take the Marines to the ground.
“It’s amazing to watch the Marines knock each other down,” said Paul J. Vargas, a Boston resident. “I know my kids enjoyed the performance.”
Throughout Marine Week, the instructor trainers visited local high schools and taught students about martial arts. Richardson said that he gets amped up when people are willing to interact with MCMAP techniques.
“The crowd’s intensity is what makes the demo,” Richardson said. “When we get volunteers to come out and get involved in the techniques, they get to see firsthand what we do.”