Jesse “Voodoo” Clay is a native of New York state, where he excelled in sports and martial arts from a young age. His martial arts training extended well beyond the United States, with the majority of his instruction taking place in Japan. His dedication and skill earned him multiple accolades, including being a four-time World Heavyweight Kumite Champion, a former member of the U.S.A. Karate National Team, and an inductee into both the World and U.S. Martial Arts Halls of Fame.

Jesse is the founder and master instructor of CMAD, a combative training system he designed for Naval Special Warfare. CMAD has also been adopted by law enforcement agencies across the country.

After graduating from college, Jesse joined the United States Navy, completing corpsman training at Balboa Navy Hospital in San Diego. He was then stationed at Parris Island, South Carolina, serving as a corpsman for the U.S. Marine Corps Fleet Marine Force. His time with the Marines inspired him to pursue training as a U.S. Navy SEAL.

Jesse’s martial arts and disciplined background translated naturally to BUD/S training, where he successfully completed Class 126 and was assigned to SEAL Delivery Vehicle (SDV) Team 2. During his Navy career, Jesse served in both the Middle East and South America in various capacities.

Throughout his service, Jesse has remained deeply connected to the Brotherhood forged in the Teams — a lifelong bond grounded in courage, service, and honor.