Master Michael L. Munyon is a distinguished martial artist and tactical defense instructor with a career spanning over four decades. As the owner of Munyon Tactical in Gulf Shores, Alabama, he has dedicated his expertise to training individuals, law enforcement agencies, and organizations in critical areas such as workplace violence prevention, Active Violence Emergency Response Training, physical security, medical emergency care, executive protection, and firearms training (NRA). His commitment to both martial arts and real-world self-defense has established him as a leading figure in his field.
A Diverse Martial Arts Background
Master Munyon’s martial arts journey began at a young age and has encompassed a variety of disciplines. His training includes Taekwon-Do (ITF), Tang Soo Do, Shotokan, Shorin Ji Kempo, American Kenpo, Kali/Escrima, Wing Chun, Savate, Shudokan Police Taiho Jitsu, and Krav Maga. Additionally, he is a certified Executive Protection/Bodyguard Instructor Trainer with Security Professionals (Netherlands) and a Tactical Weapon Instructor (ASP). He is also an Israeli Combat Tactical Knife Fighting instructor through the Krav Maga Association. He has attended two Israeli Combat Shooting pistol courses and has hosted tactical shooting courses in his home state of Michigan. With a foundation rooted in both traditional and modern combat arts, he has cultivated a well-rounded approach to self-defense.
Among his many accolades, Master Munyon holds an 8th-degree black belt in Taekwondo under the International Taekwon-Do Federation (ITF) Headquarters in South Korea. His standing within the ITF has earned him a position on the Council of Masters, further solidifying his influence in the global Taekwondo community. Additionally, he holds a 6th-degree black belt in Hapkido with the International HapKiDo Federation (IHF).
Recognition and Achievements
Master Munyon’s dedication to martial arts and self-defense training has not gone unnoticed. Over the years, he has been inducted into multiple martial arts halls of fame, recognizing his contributions to the art and its practitioners:
- Masters Hall of Fame (2009) – Recognized for his exceptional skill and leadership in martial arts.
- Official Taekwon-Do Hall of Fame (2013) – Honored for his achievements in the ITF community and made history as the first United States Air Force member to be inducted.
- United States KiDo Federation Hall of Fame (2016) – Named “ITF Master of the Year.”
- Korean Martial Arts Masters Hall of Fame (2018) – Acknowledged for his impact on Korean martial arts.
- United States Martial Arts Hall of Fame (2019) – Distinguished Master Award.
- American Martial Arts Alliance Hall of Fame (2019) – Recognized as a Legend and Pioneer.
- ITF General Choi Hong Hi Hall of Fame Award (2020) – Outstanding Master.
- Action Martial Arts Magazine Hall of Honors (2025) – Esteemed Modern Warrior Award.
These prestigious accolades reflect his unwavering commitment to preserving and evolving martial arts while mentoring the next generation of practitioners.
Publications
Due to his extensive background in the martial arts and military communities, Master Munyon has contributed to Totally Taekwon-Do magazine, served as editor of the ITF HQ Newsletter, and authored books on safety and security, which are available for purchase on Amazon.
A Lasting Influence
Master Munyon continues to shape the martial arts and self-defense landscape through seminars, training programs, and mentorship. His ability to blend traditional martial arts with tactical defense strategies has made him an invaluable asset to his students and the broader community. Whether teaching Taekwondo fundamentals or preparing individuals for high-risk situations, his mission remains the same: to empower others with the skills and knowledge needed to protect themselves and others.to empower others with the skills and knowledge needed to protect themselves and others.
Sources
Munyon, M. (n.d.). Michael Munyon – Munyon Tactical. Retrieved from https://munyontactical.com/team/michael-munyon/
International Taekwon-Do Federation. (n.d.). CV Munyon – ITF Official Headquarters. Retrieved from https://www.itfofficial.org/our-new-team/color-certificate-4-2/
