Ridge Global, an international provider of security and risk management services, has named Vice Admiral Brian Peterman (United States Coast Guard, Retired) and Matt Branigan as the newest members of Flag Bridge, a recently launched service focused on maritime risk and sovereignty management.
"Strategic maritime challenges are increasing at an alarming rate," said Tom Ridge, Ridge Global President and CEO and former secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. "Brian and Matt's expertise will help us further address these challenges, and add depth to an already extraordinary Flag Bridge team."
In addition to Peterman and Branigan, Flag Bridge members include: Admiral Tom Collins, 22nd Commandant of the USCG; Vice Admiral Jim Hull; former USCG Area Commander; Rear Admiral Norm Saunders, former USCG District Commander; and Dan Sheehan, former USCG Chief Information Officer.
Vice Admiral Brian Peterman, USCG (retired) is a recognized leader in the fields of maritime safety and security, border and port security, maritime domain awareness and emergency management. He retired from the U.S. Coast Guard in 2008 after 36 years of service to the United States. His final assignment on active duty was USCG Atlantic Area Commander, where he oversaw all Coast Guard operations in a region which ranged from the Rocky Mountains to the Arabian Gulf. Admiral Peterman holds a Bachelor's Degree from West Chester University and a M.S. from the Naval War College.
Matt Branigan has over 28 years of experience managing and leading diverse security organizations at many levels. As the former vice president and chief security officer of Brinks Incorporated, he provided strategic oversight and daily management for one of the world's leading security/risk management firms. Branigan served 22 years in the U.S. Air Force as a career security forces officer and retired with the rank of Colonel. His assignments included a tour as the senior security officer at Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC). He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminology, a Master of Arts degree in Management, a Master of Science degree in Administration of Justice, and a Master of Science degree in National Security Strategy.