American Combat Judo is a thorough study in the methods and techniques of hand-fighting. It is based upon classic Jiu-jutsu but incorporates improvements in the scientific development of modes of personal combat. It also borrows from wrestling, boxing and la Savate (foot-fighting). those special features that are peculiarly adapted for a system of hand-fighting. Originally published in 1944, the purpose of American Combat Judo was twofold.
The first was to develop a technique of disabling and, if necessary, seriously injuring an opponent. The second was to give the reader adequate skill and knowledge in defending themselves against an assailant. It cannot be over-emphasized that the slightest defection in the application of any given hold may mean serious injury. Furthermore, every superfluous movement, no matter how slight, must be eliminated.
The essence of success in the method of American Combat Judo is speed, combined with a complete knowledge of the proper technique. The large number and variety of holds and maneuvers have been presented not with the intention of having the student master each and every one; rather, they have been enumerated and illustrated to afford him an opportunity to select those best suited to their individual strengths.
BERNARD J. COSNECK graduated from the University of Illinois in 1934 where he majored in Physical Education. He was twice Big Ten Intercollegiate wrestling champion in 1932 and 1934. He became interested in all forms of hand to hand fighting, learning all the tricks of Japanese Jiu Jitsu, French foot-fighting and Chinese boxing. In training thousands of men for the United States Coast Guard, he helped devise new methods in personal combat and tested and improved old ones until he had gathered sufficient material for an authoritative book on hand to hand fighting. As Chief Boatswain mate he was Judo supervisor at United States Coast Guard Station. Manhattan Beach. Brooklyn. N. Y.
Later he was assigned to several posts directing and teaching the new fighting methods. He is co-author with Lieutenant Commander Jack Dempsey of "How to Fight Tough".