Mitsugi Saotome

[3] Kisshomaru Ueshiba goes on to confirm that Mitsugi Saotome became an uchi-deshi (personal apprentice or disciple) to Morihei Ueshiba in April 1959, receiving subsequent promotions to sixth degree black belt (Shihan) in January 1968, and remained uchi-deshi until the founder's death in April 1969.

He felt that the US was at a point of development that embraced new ideas, and that this would be an ideal environment to spread the message of peace and harmony implicit in the study of aikido.

This country is a great experiment, a melting pot of people from many different cultural backgrounds living together, the world condensed into one nation.

He has continued to serve as chief instructor for the organization, which rejoined the Aikikai and resumed its association with Hombu Dojo (world Aikido headquarters) in 1988.

Saotome feels that learning the movements and skills associated with proficiency in these weapons not only increases speed and agility, but harmony with one's partner.

He continues to teach seminars at the Aiki Shrine Dojo in Myakka City, Florida,[12] and at locations throughout the United States.