Bert Poe grew up on the Comanche Indian Reservation
the son of a Comanche woman and white father who left when Bert
was still a baby. Bert was raised by his mother and uncles, who
gave him his first martial arts training with weapons. As a so called
“half breed” Bert encountered much ill will from fellow
tribal members which prompted him to join the marines at the young
age of fifteen. Bert became one of the elite Marine Raiders and
saw combat action in the pacific theatre, Korea, and special
operations around the world. He had to leave the Marines after being wounded in action during the Korean war. Bert also was a bodyguard for Eleanor
Roosevelt, champion marine boxer, and undefeated professional boxer.
After the military Bert worked as a Texas Ranger, Sheriff, and security
expert. Bert’s influence on the Wednesday night group was
immense. His very no nonsense martial arts, teaching style, and
combat attitude are a great compliment to the JKD we were learning
at the same time. His Influence on us can never really be conveyed
with just words. Unfortunately in 1993 he succumbed to bone cancer
as a result of shrapnel remaining in his spine from some long ago
battle. We are all very thankful and honored to have known him.
