The Early Days
In the late 1950’s and early 60’s Aleju Reyes was traveling back and forth between Hawaii and the mainland. He had moved his family to the mainland and was transitioning from military service into a civil contractor career. In 1959-1960s he started his first Kajukenbo, Kenpo Karate classes at Travis Air Force Base. His early students included Don Nahoolewa, Richard Peralta, Bob McConnell, and Ferman Cruze. Don Nahoolewa and Richard Peralta became Aleju Reyes’ first and second blackbelts.
(From Left to right) Bob McConnell, Richard Peralta, Aleju Reyes, Ferman Cruze. 1959-1960s ©Reyes/Kajukenbo Archive
Don Nahoolewa, Aleju Reyes, Bob McConnell. 1959-1960s ©Reyes/Kajukenbo Archive
