Ensign Brandon Madison
Cryptologic Warfare Officer, U.S. Navy

Ensign Brandon Madison is a U.S. Navy Officer currently serving as a Cryptologic Warfare Officer in the Information Warfare Community. Prior to this, ENS Madison earned a Bachelor of Science degree in General Science in 2023 from the U.S Naval Academy while serving as a member of the Navy Football team.

Upon commissioning, ENS Madison was initially assigned to the Submarine community, where he underwent extensive training during the Navy Nuclear Pipeline in Charleston, SC. With a strong technical background and a keen interest in information warfare, he transitioned into the Information Warfare community as a Cryptologic Warfare Officer. Before joining Cryptologic Warfare Activity SIXTY SEVEN in Fort Meade, MD, he completed Information Warfare Basic Course at IWTC Virginia Beach and Cryptologic Warfare Officer Basic Course at IWTC Corry Station. His work now involves leveraging advanced technology and cyber capabilities to support national security objectives, including mission-critical cyber operations, signals intelligence, and ensuring the Navy’s dominance in the digital domain.

As a motivated officer with a solid foundation in scientific thinking and analytical problem-solving, ENS Madison is committed to contributing to the Navy’s mission and advancing the capabilities of the Information Warfare community.

Being a Black Naval Officer in the Intelligence Warfare community is both an honor and a responsibility. It means carrying forward the legacy of those who came before me, who faced challenges not just in their professional roles, but in breaking down barriers of race and perception. It’s a reminder that the path to leadership in this community was forged by the perseverance and resilience of African American officers who, despite facing adversity, set the stage for future generations to thrive.

The pioneers who paved the way, such as The Golden Thirteen, Vice Admiral Samuel L Gravely Jr, Captain Gail Harris, and others, have shown that representation matters, and their achievements are a testament to the power of determination. Their courage in stepping into roles traditionally underrepresented by people of color ensures that I, and others who follow, can stand on their shoulders and lead with confidence. Their legacy proves that we belong in every room, every mission, and every leadership position, not just to break down barriers, but to inspire others to believe that they too can lead, regardless of background. Being a Black officer in this community is a continuous reminder that the fight for excellence and equity is ongoing—and that we are all capable of shaping the future.