Fredonia firefighter inducted into Hall of Fame for seventh time
Fredonia volunteer firefighter Robert Olmedo was inducted into the United States Martial Arts Hall of Fame for the seventh time on July 18 in Las Vegas.
Olmedo has over 45 years of experience in martial arts and self-defense. He holds black belts in Judo, Aikido, Hapkido, Jiujitsu, Kali, Krav Maga (Israeli martial arts and weapons), and is a 7th degree Korean martial arts master. Master Olmedo has also been a certified fitness instructor for over 25 years.
Olmedo studied with the Secret Service at John Jay College and became a professional celebrity bodyguard. He has worked for numerous high-profile clients, including John F. Kennedy Jr., Princess Diana, Hillary Clinton, BB King, Carlos Santana, Sheryl Crow and Fran Drescher.
Olmedo is also an instructor in cardiopulmonary resuscitation, defibrillator and first aid.
Olmedo has received many awards throughout his life, including an award for service to public service from the Connecticut Secretary of State for his work in New York City in the days following the September 11 attacks. He has also been recognized for his work with the National Academy for Fire and Emergency Response to Terrorism, by the Nassau County Executive for his community service, and once received an award from President Bill Clinton.
Olmedo is fluent in Spanish, Greek, Italian, Korean, Portuguese, Japanese and Chinese. He has worked as a translator for law enforcement and the court system.
Olmedo believes that mental and physical training is good for people of all ages. His philosophy is that we should always avoid conflict with our minds and words rather than using violence. He teaches his students to live with discipline, have respect for others, show humility, courage, honor, integrity and self-confidence. He encourages all of his clients to love what they do in their lives, honor and respect their family and friends and build a teamwork environment.
