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started martial arts training in 1958 in the art of Judo. He studied while in
high school and advanced to the grade of roku kyu (green belt). After
graduating from high school and joining the Marine Corps he found himself
living in Okinawa. It was there that he was fortunate to meet one of the
worlds foremost martial artist, Master Tatsuo Shimabuku. The Marine
Corps took Sensei Burks to Viet Nam. Once he returned he learned that
Master Shimabuku had passed away in 1974. He then trained with Master
Angi Uezu, Master Tatsuo Shimabuku's son-in-law. He trained with Master
Uezu for ten years, where he earned his black belt in Isshin-Ryu karate.
He also studied other arts during this time such as Aikido, Okinawan
Kempo, Chinese Kempo, Kendo and Iaido. He holds a third degree black
belt in the art of Iaido. Since retiring he also studied Kyudo, the art of the
Japanese bow and arrow. He holds a first degree black belt in Kyudo. He
has recently been teaching at Tarawa Terrace Community Center before
becoming an instuctor at New River Aikikai.