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SENSEI AL GAGNE

July 27, 2010

 

Sensei Gagne,

 

Your instruction with the Dojo always pushed me to achieve something greater - to meticulously labor at a task or technique in the pursuit of an incomprehensible refinement.  It was not until I graduated Summa Cum Laude from the Military School at Norwich University that I understood how much your training has influenced my life outside of the Dojo.  It has instilled in me the discipline and perseverance to achieve my Degree in Architectural Studies, and the confidence to simultaneously lead my peers in Marine Corps ROTC.

 

Although I put myself at risk of sounding cliché, the century old traditions that are taught within your school are nothing short of humbling, and seem to intrinsically bring out the greatness in those who are strong enough to endure it.

 

As I pursue my Masters in Architecture I take with me, as always, your teachings - a catalyst that has helped me to understand who I am, and what I am capable of accomplishing in the future.

 

For this I extend to you my eternal gratitude.

 

Sincerely,

Andrew Doyle

 

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August 14, 2009

 

Dear Master Gagne,  I wish to express my appreciation for all that you have done for me over the years.  Other than my parents, you and the Okinawan Temple have been the biggest influence in my life.  I cannot express enough how the discipline, self control, honor, respect for life and all of the training has helped me become who I am.

 

I would not be a Veterinarian, nor have such a successful practice if it were not for you and your teachings.  I would have given up just as many others before me have.

You gave me the confidence to look at what was possible and for this, I will always be in your dept.

 

Sincerely,

Dr. George Jutras Jr.

 

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December 16, 2009

 

Sensei Gagne,  Recently, some of my fellow veterans and I were having a rather frank discussion about our experiences overseas.  One of the topics we discussed was the mental fortitude that is required by Soldiers to operate on a deployment, day in and day out.  Each one of us had obviously been shaped by different experiences and training opportunities over our years of service but I dare say that I stood out from the bunch for one particular reason:  The Dojo.

 

The training, camaraderie, self-confidence and discipline that the Dojo afforded me at such a young age has left an indelible mark on me.  I have carried the Dojo's lessons from basic training thru West Point, Iraq and my return home.  I attribute my success in life to learning very early on to respect the basics, work tirelessly at them (because they are never truly perfected), and maintain an awareness of everything that is around.  Thank you again for being a very important part of that journey.

 

Todd DiCaprio,

Captain, U.S. Army

West Point Graduate