Veteran of The Day Air Force Veteran Chuck Norris

On March 10, 2020, Carlos "Chuck" Norris, born March 10, 1940 in Ryan, Oklahoma, celebrated his 80th Birthday and was named Veteran Of The Day. This was a well-deserved honor to a man of many talents. He served in the Air Force from 1958-1962 as an Air Policeman stationed in Korea. He earned a black belt in Tang Soo Do, a form of Korean karate. This experience led to the formation of his own form of martial arts called Chun Kuk Do, which is based on elements of Tang Soo Do and other combat styles.

After his military service, he applied to be a police officer. While waiting for this position, he decided to open a martial arts studio in Torrance, California, and this led to a chain of studios. Chuck entered many martial arts competitions. He won his first World Middleweight Karate Championship title in 1968, and he held the title of Karate World Champion for six consecutive years.

During this time, Chuck met Bruce Lee, which led to his role in the 1972 movie Return of the Dragon, in which he kicked his way into stardom. He spent several decades starring in action movies and television shows like Walker, Texas Ranger and The Delta Force. He was also film producer and screenwriter.

Chuck's brother, Wieland Norris, was killed in action during the Vietnam War. He dedicated his Missing in Action films to his brother's memory.

In 2001, Chuck received the Veteran of the Year award from the Air Force. In 2007, Commandant General James T. Conway made Chuck Norris an honorary United States Marine. In 2011, Governor Rick Perry named him an honorary Texas Ranger.

Congratulations Chuck Norris. Thank you for your service. You deserve this recognition.