Forggoten Legends Series: Charles Nelson

Charles Nelson was a prominent figure in the world of martial arts and self-defence in New York City during the 1930s and beyond. He was a career Marine, serving during the 1930s and later training military personnel during the Vietnam War.

Nelson began his career in the Marine Corps in the 1930s, where he developed his skills in hand-to-hand combat and martial arts. He quickly became known as an expert in the field and eventually opened his school, Charles Nelson’s School of Defense, in New York City.

At his school, Nelson taught various martial arts and self-defence techniques to civilians and military personnel. He was mainly known for his expertise in judo, a Japanese martial art that emphasizes throws and joint locks. He also taught boxing, wrestling, and other forms of combat.

In addition to teaching at his school, Nelson travelled around the country, giving demonstrations and lectures on self-defence and hand-to-hand combat. He even wrote a book on the subject, “The Marine Corps Hand-to-Hand Fighting Manual,” which was used by the Marine Corps as a training manual.

After his career in the Marine Corps, Nelson continued to be involved in the military, training soldiers and Marines during the Vietnam War. He was highly respected by those he taught, who credited him with helping them survive in dangerous combat.

Overall, Charles Nelson was a dedicated and highly skilled martial artist and self-defence instructor who significantly impacted the field during his lifetime. His expertise in hand-to-hand combat and martial arts helped many civilian and military people defend themselves and stay safe.