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Citizens' Defense Academy

Instructor # 1768006 | Citizens' Defense Academy

Certified with the USCCA since 10/31/2023

Certification Renewal Date 10/31/2026

Has Certified Instructors
  • training@citizensdefenseacademy.com
  • (570) 418-0557

Bidwell, OH, 45614

4.9

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USCCA Certifications

  • Concealed Carry & Home Defense
  • Emergency & First Aid
  • Non-Lethal Program - Certified Instructor

My Biography

Matthew “Pat” Whalen served 16 years in the U.S. Navy as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Technician/Diver/Parachutist, and Gunner's Mate (GM). He went on to serve an additional 15 years in the Air National Guard, retiring as an Intelligence Superintendent and Anti-Terrorism Subject Matter Expert (SME). While serving as a Gunner's Mate on his EOD Detachment, Pat became a Small Arms and Marksmanship Instructor (SAMI). He also served in law enforcement and nuclear security, gaining extensive real-world experience in threat response and defensive operations. Pat has received advanced training in a wide range of firearms, tactics, and defensive techniques and continues to train in multiple martial arts disciplines. Current certifications include: • Mace® (Pepper Spray Defense) • USCCA and NRA Firearms Instruction • POST Firearms Instruction • Munio Self Defense • Byrna Less Lethal Launchers • Red Cross (First Aid/CPR/AED) • USCCA Emergency First Aid Fundamentals • Certified Gunsmith To view available courses, visit https://CitizensDefenseAcademy.com. For special course requests or scheduling inquiries, Contact Us at training@CitizensDefenseAcademy.com or 570-418-0557.

Current Classes Available

  • Tues, Nov. 3, 2026 7:00 PM

    Self Defense (Krav-Maga)

    with Citizens' Defense Academy
    Rating star small4.9

    Citizens' Defense Academy
    Jackson, OH

    FREE

      Tues, Nov. 17, 2026 7:00 PM

      Self Defense (Krav-Maga)

      with Citizens' Defense Academy
      Rating star small4.9

      Citizens' Defense Academy
      Jackson, OH

      FREE

      Request a Class

      REALTORS: -Recognize the unique aspects of your job that put you at risk of a violent encounter. -Learn to avoid violent encounters by developing an acute awareness of your surroundings. -Differentiate between “looking” and “seeing,” and understand how to detect threat indicators early. -Recognize the physical and psychological effects you might experience during a dynamic critical incident. -Learn how to employ various defensive strategies to mitigate an unwanted encounter before it escalates. -Recognize the defensive options — both armed and unarmed — you can use to help keep you safe.

      This Multistate Concealed Course uses CDA, NRA, and USCCA curricula to meet the educational requirements for applying for your carry permit in AZ, FL, OH, & WV. This course is intended for individuals regardless of previous shooting experience. Course topics include gun safety rules, proper operation of revolvers and pistols, ammunition knowledge and selection, handgun selection and storage, shooting fundamentals, handgun inspection and maintenance, marksmanship, range safety, state laws, and more. Additionally, students will complete live fire training and a standardized shooting qualification while on the range with a Certified Instructor. NOTE: Although you are encouraged to use the firearm you carry, PLEASE DO NOT BUY A HANDGUN OR ANY OTHER EQUIPMENT BEFORE THE CLASS. If you do not have a handgun or safety equipment, contact us during registration about borrowing ours.

      This five-part series meets one night a week for five weeks and discusses how to prepare for everyday emergencies. You will be given practical tips that won't break the bank. Topics include: Prioritizing your Preparations, Building a First Aid Kit, Staying Informed and In Touch during an emergency, and Much Much More. Prerequisite: NONE

      This course will focus on the techniques needed to develop a defensive mindset. The goal of the course will be to develop the knowledge, skills, and attitude necessary to carry and use a concealed pistol ethically, responsibly, and with confidence. As a result of participating in this course, the student will be able to explain and demonstrate the following: how to apply the NRA Rules for Safe Gun Handling when carrying a concealed firearm; basic principles of concealment; the difference between cover and concealment; drawing from the holster; levels of mental awareness; developing the proper mindset when using a pistol for personal protection; clearing common stoppages; use of subcompact or micro pistols; and more.

      The NRA Basics of Pistol Shooting (BOP) is intended for individuals regardless of previous shooting experience or NRA affiliation. Course topics include gun safety rules, proper operation of revolvers and pistols, ammunition knowledge and selection, handgun selection and storage, shooting fundamentals, handgun inspection and maintenance, marksmanship, and range safety. Additionally, students will complete live fire training and a nationally standardized shooting qualification while on the range with a NRA Certified Instructor. NOTE: Although students may bring their own firearms, We strongly recommend especially, if you are new to shooting that you use one of ours at no extra cost and we will even provide the ammo. We strongly recommend a 22 caliber for this class. Prerequisites: None

      The NRA Basics of Pistol Shooting (BOP) is intended for individuals regardless of previous shooting experience or NRA affiliation. Course topics include gun safety rules, proper operation of revolvers and pistols, ammunition knowledge and selection, handgun selection and storage, shooting fundamentals, handgun inspection and maintenance, marksmanship, and range safety. Additionally, students will complete live fire training and a nationally standardized shooting qualification while on the range with an NRA Certified Instructor. A $50 non-refundable deposit is required to register.

      This course will focus on the techniques needed to develop a defensive mindset. The goal of the course will be to develop the knowledge, skills, and attitude necessary to carry and use a concealed pistol ethically, responsibly, and with confidence. As a result of participating in this course, the student will be able to explain and demonstrate the following: how to apply the NRA Rules for Safe Gun Handling when carrying a concealed firearm; basic principles of concealment; the difference between cover and concealment; drawing from the holster; levels of mental awareness; developing the proper mindset when using a pistol for personal protection; clearing common stoppages; use of subcompact or micro pistols; and more.

      This CCHDF class utilizes an interactive simulator and will introduce you to the concepts and considerations necessary for carrying concealed, safely and ethically, while maintaining a defensive posture. Also discussed in this non-live fire course are dry firing exercises and range drills that will aid in preparing you for the next step in your training; Defensive Pistol or Personal Protection Outside The Home (PPOTH)

      Prerequisite: Must demonstrate safe handgun handling/ Recommended Basics of Pistol Shooting or equivalent training

      This course builds on the skills learned in Defensive Shooting. It will focus on the safety aspects in an active shooter scenario while using movement, and available cover and concealment.

      This course builds on the skills learned in Defensive Shooting. It will focus on the safety aspects in an active shooter scenario while using movement, and available cover and concealment.

      In an emergency, every second counts. If the time ever comes, you’ll be able to take meaningful action by learning the basic first aid and lifesaving techniques taught in this course.

      Lesson Four of Four of Emergency First Aid Fundamentals (EFAF) will cover:

      -Buy or Build -Comfort Versus Lifesaving -Creating a Small Kit -Creating a Medium Kit -Creating a Large Kit -Trauma Kits -Other Gear and Gadgets -Ongoing Training

      Prerequisite: NONE/Recommend EFAF 1-3/Basic First Aid

      This Red Cross Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED blended learning course equips students to recognize and care for a variety of first aid, breathing, and cardiac emergencies involving adults, children, and infants. It is designed for students who need a certification that satisfies OSHA workplace or other regulatory requirements. This class is taught in a blended learning format, and the online portion (accessed via mobile, desktop, or tablet) must be completed prior to attending the Instructor-led skills session. Upon successful completion, a valid 2-year digital certificate for Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED is issued. PREREQUISITE: This is a Blended Learning Class; the Online portion must be completed before attendance.

      This is the perfect follow-up segment to Basic First Aid/CPR, and a must-have for anyone involved in shooting sports or who works with knives or machinery.

      This lesson will cover: -Effective Bleeding Control -Estimating Blood Loss -Compression Bandages, Tourniquets and Wound-Packing -Penetrating Injuries to the Torso -Wound Maintenance -Major Burns -Musculoskeletal Trauma -Femur Fractures -Pelvic Fractures -Rib Fractures and Flail Chest -Head Trauma -Trauma to the Eye

      A bonus segment on building a first aid kit will also be provided.

      In some situations, using a purse, briefcase or other method of Off-Body Carry is the only solution. Like with a holster carry, it is not just a matter of throwing it in the bag and instinctively being able to draw. This course, utilizing the Smokeless Range will explore and discuss methods, safety, and mechanics associated with alternative methods of carry.

      Because bad things don't always happen when it's light out, different techniques for shooting in low light or no light conditions will be discussed and practiced.

      Save money by taking the Red Cross First Aid/CPR/ AED followed by treating Gunshot Wounds and Traumatic Injuries a must-have for anyone involved in shooting sports or who works with knives or machinery. Receive Red Cross First Aid, CPR, and AED certification as well as training in: -Effective Bleeding Control -Estimating Blood Loss -Compression Bandages, Tourniquets and Wound-Packing -Penetrating Injuries to the Torso -Wound Maintenance -Major Burns -Musculoskeletal Trauma -Femur Fractures -Pelvic Fractures -Rib Fractures and Flail Chest -Head Trauma -Trauma to the Eye A bonus segment on building a first aid kit will also be provided. Prerequisite: NONE

      PRESENTED BY IRON CITY KRAV MAGA: Because a gun isn't always the answer, and when it is, you need time to get to it. This class teaches practical fundamentals for all levels of experience. NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED!

      This Red Cross Adult First Aid/CPR/AED blended learning course equips students to recognize and care for a variety of first aid, breathing, and cardiac emergencies involving adults. It is designed for students who need a certification that satisfies OSHA workplace or other regulatory requirements. This class is taught in a blended learning format, and the online portion (accessed via mobile, desktop, or tablet) must be completed before attending the Instructor-led skills session. Upon successful completion, a valid 2-year digital certificate for Adult First Aid/CPR/AED is issued. PREREQUISITE: This is a Blended Learning Class; the Online portion must be completed before attendance.

      This course teaches the basic knowledge, skills, and attitude necessary for the safe use of a rifle in target shooting utilizing the AR platform.

      This course teaches the basic knowledge, skills, and attitude for the safe and proper use of a shotgun in shooting a moving target.

      Personal safety is a priority for everyone. Whether you’re a college student walking alone at night, a working professional commuting home, or a parent concerned about the safety of your loved ones, having a reliable self-defense tool can make all the difference. That’s where MUNIO Self Defense comes in.

      This course teaches students how to make an informed handgun-selection decision based on their individual needs, physical abilities, intended use, budget, training plans, and ability to safely operate and maintain the handgun.

      Students will learn why there is no single "best handgun" for everyone and will develop a systematic process for evaluating different handguns before making a purchase.

      4.9

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      13 Reviews

      What Students Are Saying

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        Class taken on Sat, Nov. 1, 2025
        |Taught by

        Instructors

        • Citizens' Defense Academy

          Bidwell, Ohio

          Rating star large4.9
        "I walked in not knowing anything about guns, shooting, laws, etc. I walked out with confidence. I can take a gun apart, clean it, shoot it, Ohio laws, and had a fun day. "

        Submitted on Mon, Nov. 3, 2025 by Arielle B.

        "Thank you Arielle, it was a fun day and you ladies did really well."

        Submitted on Wed, Nov. 5, 2025

      • Rating star large
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        Class taken on Sat, Oct. 11, 2025
        |Taught by

        Instructors

        • Citizens' Defense Academy

          Bidwell, Ohio

          Rating star large4.9
        "The class, especially the 1 on 1 time at the range was awesome. Pat was an excellent instructor who was very knowledgeable, had a sense of humor and very easy to talk with."

        Submitted on Tues, Oct. 28, 2025 by Steven N.

        "Thank you Steven, I enjoyed having you in class and appreciate your updates on your training."

        Submitted on Wed, Oct. 29, 2025

      • Rating star large
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        Class taken on Sat, Feb. 1, 2025
        |Taught by

        Instructors

        • Citizens' Defense Academy

          Bidwell, Ohio

          Rating star large4.9
        • Matthew Foro

          Bidwell, Ohio

          Rating star large4.8
        • Jay Frind

          Bidwell, Ohio

          Rating star large4.8
        "Excellent instructors!! Very knowledgeable"

        Submitted on Mon, Feb. 3, 2025 by Cassandra L.

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