About Us
PROTECT WHATS S.A.C.R.E.D.
American Civil Defense Company is a Chicago-based defense consultant & security school focused on the best practices of sustaining life & liberty for citizens of the free world. We provide self-defense, concealed carry, & security training led by highly qualified, state-licensed & nationally certified instructors, combining modern technology with proven instruction to equip everyday Americans to protect what they love.
Our Story
~ Always Ready, Always There ~
"ACDefense" didn't start off as a business plan, it started off as a calling. When the social unrest of 2016 began, people really started focusing on their self defense. Raised in a multigenerational family of MIL & LEO, service & protection were already two pillars of his youth, & our founder is who many Chicago locals reached out to. When the COVID psyop began in 2020 the demand for professional self defense & security training reached an all time high, and "ACDefense" officially launched. From there we have sought out not just instructors & certifications, but protectors, patriots, and those who swear "This We'll Defend" & "Semper Fi".
Meet The Team
CARMINE MATTOZZI
Founder and CEO of American Civil Defense Company, this U.S. Army Infantryman brings 20+ years of private security experience in Chicago, forged in real-world protective work where judgment and performance matter. A competitor in both MMA and 2-Gun, his instruction isn’t built on theory—it’s validated through continual training, measurable results, and on-demand execution under pressure. Backed by credentials as a firearms and martial arts instructor, he delivers disciplined fundamentals, practical tactics, and responsible decision-making that hold up beyond the square range. As Director of Mission Readiness for Armstrong Security, his standards are tested daily through the performance, safety, and careers of the professionals he trains and leads. Known for direct coaching, accountability, and a protector’s mindset, he develops capable, ethical defenders. A mentor and ambassador with multiple veteran charities, he remains committed to strengthening those who uphold the Constitution—and safeguarding the families and communities they serve.
• USCCA, NRA, CSAT Firearms Instructor
• SOCP Certified, BJJ Instructor
• CLS certified, EFAF Instructor
• Sub-Lethal Weapon Instructor
KEVIN WHEELER
As Training Coordinator, this U.S. Marine Corps Veteran and law-enforcement–trained security leader with extensive experience in executive protection, crisis response, and operations leadership. He serves as Training & Operations Manager for Armstrong Security, overseeing armed and unarmed teams, executive-protection assignments, personnel development, and threat-assessment initiatives across diverse environments. A former Military Police Marine (5811) and Training NCO, Kevin brings 10+ years of combined military, security, and instructional expertise spanning use-of-force, defensive tactics, emergency preparedness, and protective-service mission planning. He has delivered high-profile executive protection, coordinated multi-agency security efforts, and led teams in dynamic, high-risk settings. Active in Freemasonry and the York Rite, he serves as Grand Chaplain, District Instructor, and Junior Grand Warden of the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of Illinois, and has authored educational programs used statewide. With academic training in psychology, criminal justice, and forensic psychology, he blends strategic judgment with operational precision, pursuing federal law-enforcement investigative and tactical roles.
• USMC Military Police & Training NCO
• Training Manager – Armstrong Security
• Certified Instructor & Security Specialist
• York Rite Grand Officer & Masonic Educator
LEWIS SANBORN
As Lead Instructor, this 15-year Army infantry veteran and firearms instructor delivering Special Operations–level standards to civilian and professional training. A current 11B, he has served as a HALO Team Sergeant in a Long-Range Surveillance unit, Infantry Scout Team Leader, Infantry Squad Leader, and Senior Operations Advisor in an SFAB—leading and training soldiers in demanding operational roles. His deployment experience includes Afghanistan in support of the GWOT, Kosovo for anti–human smuggling operations, and the United Arab Emirates for combat advising missions. Holding credentials as an NRA Instructor, Special Forces Basic Combat Course Instructor, Ranger Instructor, S.E.R.E. C Instructor, and Special Operations Combatives Program–certified professional, he blends disciplined marksmanship, field-proven tactics, and a protector’s mindset. The result is direct, practical firearms and security instruction built for men and women who take responsibility seriously and intend to defend lives and assets with competence and restraint.
• SFAB Senior Operations Advisor.
• LRS HALO Team Sergeant
• NRA, S.E.R.E. C, SFBCC Instructor.
• Nat'l Disaster PSD Team Lead
BRIAN KRIETER
A seasoned security professional and tactical instructor with extensive experience in executive protection, high-risk environments, and defensive operations. He brings years of hands-on medical expertise, holding multiple advanced certifications and teaching life-saving prehospital care to both civilian and professional audiences. As a combative and medical instructor, he develops students’ confidence and capability through realistic, scenario-based training. Brian is also a skilled firearms instructor, emphasizing precision, accountability, and mastery under pressure.
• TAC / SAR / ERT Medic
• Hand to hand combat instructor
• Firearms instructor
• K9 Medical
Our Clients
