CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. – Martial arts and combat sports provide a versatile skillset utilized for a variety of reasons. Some individuals seek self-defense tactics to protect themselves in potentially dangerous situations, while others have dedicated years to mastering these disciplines and compete at professional levels. For U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Charles Copeland, currently serving as the fire and effects coordination center chief at the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), involvement in martial arts has fundamentally reshaped his approach to discomfort and resilience.
Copeland’s early life unfolded in the quaint setting of a small Minnesota town, a backdrop that shaped his determination. Despite his smaller stature during his youth, he frequently encountered skepticism from peers who believed he was ill-suited for intense sports.
“I just enjoyed challenging myself in some things,” Copeland stated reflectively. “I took up wrestling in my younger years despite reservations from others who thought I would get hurt. Ironically, I thrived in the sport, relishing the physical demands and challenges, but knew I was also drawn to striking disciplines.”
His fervor for combative sports fueled his desire to join the military, as he was intrigued by the prospect of aligning his martial arts training with a structured career path. Prior to officially enlisting, he embarked on a quest to intensify his physical and mental preparedness, determined to excel in basic training.
“When I wasn’t doing wrestling or engaged in school, I started exploring kickboxing, boxing, and jiu-jitsu,” said Copeland. “At around 14 years of age, I started reaching out to several military recruiters. While I was certain about my aspiration to serve, I was uncertain regarding which branch to join. It was the Marine Corps that captivated me—its core values resonated with me, and the established martial arts program played a pivotal role in my decision. I committed to attending every workout hosted at the recruiting station every second Saturday of each month.”
After three rigorous years of preparation, Copeland’s determination culminated in his departure to Marine Corps Recruiting Depot, Parris Island, North Carolina, on September 15, 2015, where he earned the esteemed title of Marine. His journey through the Marine Corps not only challenged him physically and mentally but also opened countless doors for personal development. After moving to his second unit, 5th Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company in Okinawa, Japan, Copeland embarked on Sergeants School, a course that pushed him further out of his comfort zone than ever before.
“At the Sergeant’s Course, I initially didn’t intend to volunteer for additional responsibilities beyond the requirements,” he shared. “However, when they sought a class leader, I knew stepping up was essential for my growth as a Marine. I raised my hand, but almost immediately second-guessed my decision. The course presented numerous situations requiring me to issue commands beyond my control, often placing me in truly uncomfortable circumstances. Each facet of the schooling tested me: the mental strain was exhausting, the rigorous workouts left me physically drained, and the responsibilities of leadership weighed heavily on me emotionally. Yet, those experiences were invaluable; they shaped me into a more competent Marine and a stronger leader.”
Following his tour in Okinawa, Copeland transitioned to Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, where he joined the Fire Support Battery, 10th Marine Regiment, 2d Marine Division. His dedication to the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP) intensified as he pursued the demanding MCMAP Martial Arts Instructor (MAI) course, cementing his commitment to martial arts even further.
“Fighting is an intensely emotional sport. In defeat, there’s no one to blame but yourself,” he reflected. “As an MAI, one learns the importance of humility; wearing a tab doesn’t automatically confer superiority or strength over others. The unpredictability of individual fighters can present significant challenges, but through those moments, you learn to absorb the blows and keep advancing.”
Today, Copeland tirelessly seeks new opportunities to challenge himself and deepen his combative training. Whether he’s instructing MCMAP for fellow Marines or hitting the gym to explore Krav Maga—an Israeli self-defense system—he ensures his days are filled with physical and mental pursuits.
“Progress is impossible in a stagnant environment. Some individuals complete the MCMAP course and stop advancing after achieving their desired belt, yet that stagnation robs them of further growth,” Copeland articulated. “Fear often hinders people from reaching their potential. As a swim instructor, I’ve observed Marines paralyzed by anxiety, particularly during the tower jump—their fear prevents them from overcoming it. It’s essential to confront that fear in a safe manner; exposing oneself to challenges is the only path to mastery.”
PUBLIC DOMAIN
How has your experience in martial arts prepared you for leadership roles in the military?
**Interview with Staff Sgt. Charles Copeland: The Transformational Power of Martial Arts in the Military**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Sgt. Copeland. Your journey through martial arts and the Marine Corps is inspiring. Let’s start from the beginning—what drew you to martial arts as a young man?
**Sgt. Copeland:** Thank you for having me. Growing up in a small Minnesota town, I often faced skepticism because of my size. I enjoyed challenging myself, so I took up wrestling. It was a way for me to push back against those doubts. I found that I thrived in an environment that demanded both physical and mental resilience, which naturally led me to explore striking disciplines like kickboxing, boxing, and jiu-jitsu.
**Editor:** It sounds like those experiences shaped your desire to serve in the military. Can you tell us how martial arts influenced that decision?
**Sgt. Copeland:** Absolutely. I wanted a structured path where I could align my passion for martial arts with a career. Before enlisting, I made it a priority to prepare myself physically and mentally for the challenges of military life. The Marine Corps stood out to me—its core values resonated deeply, and the focused martial arts program played a crucial role in my choice to enlist.
**Editor:** You mentioned training rigorously prior to joining the Marines. How did that preparation help with your experience at the Marine Corps Recruiting Depot?
**Sgt. Copeland:** The three years of preparation were vital. It not only built my physical capabilities but also fortified my mental toughness. When I arrived at Parris Island, I felt ready to take on the challenges of boot camp, which certainly tested every part of me.
**Editor:** After becoming a Marine, you sought additional leadership opportunities. Can you elaborate on your experience at the Sergeant’s Course?
**Sgt. Copeland:** Joining the Sergeant’s Course pushed me beyond what I thought I was capable of. I volunteered to be a class leader, which was a daunting prospect. It forced me into uncomfortable situations that demanded quick thinking and leadership skills. The physical demands were taxing, and the emotional weight of leadership was heavy, but those experiences were critical for my development as both a Marine and a leader.
**Editor:** Your commitment to martial arts continued as you transitioned to Camp Lejeune. What does the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program mean to you?
**Sgt. Copeland:** MCMAP is more than just a combat training regimen—it’s a holistic approach to warrior development. It’s about mental discipline, physical conditioning, and leadership. Pursuing the Martial Arts Instructor course was a way for me to further cement my commitment and give back to fellow Marines. I believe that fighting is an intensely emotional sport, one that teaches you resilience not only in the ring but also in life.
**Editor:** Thank you, Sgt. Copeland, for sharing your story. Clearly, martial arts has played a significant role in shaping who you are as a Marine and a leader.
**Sgt. Copeland:** Thank you for having me. I hope my journey inspires others to embrace challenges and harness the power of martial arts in their lives.
