George Koyama Sensei
Rokudan
January 16, 1923 – January 8, 2015
George Koyama Sensei started judo in 1938 and was one of the kindest, most gentle of people and a great sensei. Koyama served in the Army during World War II, where he received a Purple Heart after suffering wounds inflicted by an enemy grenade, while advancing on a machine gun nest. He was also awarded the Bronze Star for his service in WWII, and in 2013, Koyama was presented the Congressional Gold Medal for service in the 442nd.
Koyama returned to his family farm in Nampa after the war. He then continued his education and graduated from Nampa Business College, before pursuing a career. In 1946, Koyama returned to the Boise Valley Judo Club, where he continued studying and teaching judo. George Koyama Sensei’s legacy continues today as the lessons learned through his gentle approach are still being taught in clubs throughout Intermountain Yudanshakai.
Rokudan
January 16, 1923 – January 8, 2015
George Koyama Sensei started judo in 1938 and was one of the kindest, most gentle of people and a great sensei. Koyama served in the Army during World War II, where he received a Purple Heart after suffering wounds inflicted by an enemy grenade, while advancing on a machine gun nest. He was also awarded the Bronze Star for his service in WWII, and in 2013, Koyama was presented the Congressional Gold Medal for service in the 442nd.
Koyama returned to his family farm in Nampa after the war. He then continued his education and graduated from Nampa Business College, before pursuing a career. In 1946, Koyama returned to the Boise Valley Judo Club, where he continued studying and teaching judo. George Koyama Sensei’s legacy continues today as the lessons learned through his gentle approach are still being taught in clubs throughout Intermountain Yudanshakai.
