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8th Dan National Karate and Jiu Jitsu Union (1930-1989)
Soke Richard Baillargeon founded the National Karate and Jiu Jitsu Union in 1974, after having resigned from the Seishin Kai Karate Union.
Soke Baillargeon began his martial arts in Urmagawa, Japan in 1956. His first instructor was Sensei Kishan Kayo, who was, then, 4th Dan in Motobu-Ha Shito-Ryu and affiliated with the Seishin Kai Karate Union. His son, Shogo Kuniba, became Soke of Motobu-Ha Karate Do, Seishin Kai Karate Union. Master Baillargeon studied with Soke Shogo Kuniba until 1964. By then, Master Baillargeon had earned the grade of Sandan. Soke Baillargeon returned to the United States in 1964 and became the United States representative for Seishin Kai. He served in that capacity for ten years. By 1974, he had been promoted to 6th Dan by Soke Kuniba.
In the summer of 1974, he resigned from his position in Seishin Kai. Shortly thereafter, he formed his own association: The National Karate and Jiu Jitsu Union. In July of 1986, Master Baillargeon was awarded on 8th Dan in Motobu-Ha Shito-Ryu Karate by Soke Shogo Kuniba. Master Baillargeon also holds master ranks in Indo Pakistani weapons and a 6th Dan in Goshin Budo Jiu Jitsu.
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