Citizens' Defense Academy

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.