Camp Casey, South Korea
In a remarkable display of skill and determination, U.S. Army Sergeant Robert J. Errington of the 59th Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear (CBRN) Company (Hazards Response) secured the Gold Medal at an international Taekwondo competition held at the prestigious Kukkiwon, the World Taekwondo Headquarters in Seoul, South Korea.
Sgt. Errington, a Chemical Corps sergeant hailing from Buffalo, New York, achieved an extraordinary feat by earning his Taekwondo black belt in just six months during his deployment to South Korea. His journey into martial arts was sparked at the age of 8 during a family trip to Vietnam, where he witnessed monks from a Buddhist temple performing martial arts.
Encouraged by company leaders 1st Lt. Aidan J. Naylor and Sgt. 1st Class Sun-kyong Jung, both Taekwondo practitioners, Errington enrolled in courses on Camp Casey. Under the guidance of Kukkiwon-certified Taekwondo grandmaster Yi Yong-son, Errington swiftly progressed through the belt levels, culminating in the achievement of his black belt.
The intense training regimen for the 1st degree black belt test included demonstrating basics, performing four Taekwondo forms, completing 50 pushups, and engaging in sparring sessions with higher-level black belts. Additionally, Errington showcased his prowess by breaking 3/4-inch-thick boards with various kicking techniques.
During the international competition in September 2023, Errington faced formidable opponents in his weight class, ultimately overcoming a 3rd degree black belt to secure the Gold Medal. His success reflects not only his personal dedication but also the strong commitment of the U.S. Army to physical fitness and fostering ties with allies.
The 59th CBRN Company, known as the “Mountain Dragons,” is currently deployed to South Korea in support of the 23rd CBRN Battalion, 2nd Infantry Division Sustainment Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division, and Eighth Army. Beyond his achievements on the mat, Errington expressed his appreciation for the rich cultural experiences and friendships formed during his deployment in South Korea.
Looking ahead, Errington, who chose to serve in the U.S. Army Chemical Corps to protect against Weapons of Mass Destruction, aspires to become a recruiter after his military career and later pursue a career in education.
Capt. Evan P. Shortsleeve, the commander of the 59th CBRNE Company (Hazardous Response), commended Errington for representing the Army with distinction, highlighting his positive influence on fellow soldiers and allies alike. Shortsleeve emphasized Errington’s role in inspiring holistic health and fitness practices within the military community.
In addition to celebrating Errington’s triumph, the 59th CBRN Company anticipates another achievement in Taekwondo as Spc. Jacob Oliver from the “Mountain Dragons” is set to test for his Taekwondo Black Belt in the near future.