I must admit, though, I am slightly confused. I thought the rank of Datu removed one from the belt system, as it set a person aside as more of a "research and development" expert. Am I wrong?
I would like to congratulate Datu Kelly Worden on his promotion by the Presas family and their MARPIO organization. I know Kelly as a martial artist who has never sought rank. I am well aware of Kellys sincere efforts to help the Presas family in their reconciliation and reunion during their fathers final days. Even after their fathers passing, Kelly has been selfless and generous of his time and energy in helping Remy Jr. and his siblings fulfill their sacred pledge to return to the teaching of their youth. Promotions in rank are sometimes given as a reflection of skill and sometimes as a reflection of contribution to the art. Datu Kellys promotion reflects both.
May I as an official reprsentative of the Sikaran Intnational offer our congradulations to Datu Worden on his promotion. We wish him well and are happy to see that his years of training and teaching have once more been reconized.
Sheldon L. Bedell
Sikaran