I started my training in July 1983 in Petersburg VA, under Master Nam Hi Lee. There I attained the rank of Green Belt. I transferred to Stuttgart Germany in Dec 84 where I had the honor of meeting and training under Master Thompson. Under him I attained the rank of Red Belt on Nov 11, 1987.

On my return to VA I started my training again under Master Lee.  I received my Black Belt on 21 February 1989.

I assisted in training at the Fort Lee Youth Center two years. After my retirement from the Army in Aug 89 I continued under Master Lee for another one and one half years. I took a sabbatical from Karate for 2 years and then started training under Master Raymond Sheets in Dinwiddie, VA where I received the rank of Black Belt in the Japanese style of Bu Gei Jo.

In June 1990 I began working as a Deputy Sheriff for the City of Petersburg, VA. I was so employed until June of 1989. At which time I relocated to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

Lonnie was awarded his TKA Black Belt in a belting ceremony held in San Antonio, Texas