“Drive Forward”

Ronald J. Garner is a distinguished defense strategist, senior government advisor, and retired U.S. Army Colonel whose nearly four-decade career has shaped national and international security policy at the highest levels. With 38 years of cumulative military and civilian experience, Ron has led multi-billion-dollar defense initiatives, advanced intergovernmental security cooperation, and built enduring partnerships across the Western Hemisphere. His motto, “Drive Forward,” is not only a personal mantra but a reflection of his relentless commitment to advancing security, empowering institutions, and building global alliances for a safer world.

Currently serving as the Senior Defense Advisor to Peru’s Ministry of Defense, Ron continues to wield his expertise in international defense diplomacy. From advising Peruvian defense leadership on NATO standardization and foreign acquisitions to steering interoperability with U.S. forces, his work is strengthening Peru’s defense architecture and bolstering regional security in Latin America. His leadership in aligning bilateral priorities with U.S. Southern Command and the Office of the Secretary of Defense exemplifies his role as a cornerstone of modern hemispheric defense policy.

Ron’s trajectory is deeply rooted in high-stakes policy and operational leadership. As a Senior Foreign Affairs Specialist at the Defense Security Cooperation Agency from 2018 to 2024, he directed over $1.5 billion in global security assistance programs. There, he served as a vital conduit between Congress, combatant commands, and international allies, expertly translating complex national security goals into actionable, strategic outcomes. His aptitude for policy translation and diplomatic communication positioned him as a go-to authority on aligning partner nation capabilities with U.S. objectives.

The breadth of Ron’s experience spans strategic consultancy as well. During his tenure at Booz Allen Hamilton and Kenjya Trusant LLC, he provided institutional reform strategies to Latin American ministries of defense and advised the U.S. Department of State on the declassification of sensitive national security documents. His ability to bridge military and civilian sectors, combined with his operational experience, makes him a uniquely valuable advisor capable of navigating both tactical complexity and political nuance.

Ron’s impact on U.S. foreign policy has been particularly evident in his roles as a defense diplomat and military attaché. As Chief of the Office of Defense Coordination in Mexico City, he led a 40-member team in transforming U.S.-Mexico security relations. Managing programs valued at over half a billion dollars, he facilitated modernization of Mexico’s armed forces and embedded U.S. advisors within key Mexican defense institutions. His ability to operate within foreign defense ministries and build trust-based relationships has driven lasting strategic gains for both countries.

His strategic leadership was equally transformative during his service at the White House’s Office of National Drug Control Policy, where he helped shape the Merida Initiative—a $1.4 billion counternarcotics program. Representing the U.S. in international forums, he played a pivotal role in aligning global enforcement strategies and elevating the United States’ leadership in international drug policy coordination.

Ron also held influential roles at the Pentagon, including Chief of the Americas Division on the Joint Staff, where he advised the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs on Latin American strategy. He developed homeland security and counter-extremism policies during critical years of national defense evolution and led responses to regional crises, such as natural disasters and civil unrest. Through each assignment, he earned a reputation as a master strategist and crisis leader.

Internationally, Ron has lived and worked across Latin America and developed fluency in Spanish with conversational Portuguese. His global engagements—from Bolivia to Mexico to Peru—have shaped his cross-cultural competence and deep understanding of foreign civil-military relations. He is a graduate of the University of Idaho and the University of New Mexico, and an alumnus of MIT’s prestigious Seminar XXI program, underscoring his academic commitment to strategic studies and global affairs.

A decorated officer, Ron’s military honors include the Legion of Merit, Defense Superior Service Medal, and numerous commendations for joint service and operational excellence. Beyond his professional duties, he remains passionate about the outdoors and shooting sports, exemplifying the balance of discipline and adventure that has defined his career. He is currently seeking part-time board roles where he can apply his insights to strengthen corporate governance, shape security strategy, and empower emerging leaders.

At his core, Ronald J. Garner is driven by a belief in purposeful leadership and the responsibility to serve. Whether influencing U.S. foreign policy, mentoring future defense leaders, or guiding private-sector boards through complex geopolitical risk, he brings unwavering integrity, deep institutional knowledge, and a global perspective to every mission he undertakes.

Character:

Ronald embodies integrity and duty, rooted in a career dedicated to public service and global security. His leadership is guided by honor, resilience, and a tireless commitment to excellence in every arena he engages.

Knowledge:

With nearly four decades of experience, Ronald’s understanding of defense policy, international relations, and interagency operations is both profound and practical. His expertise is built on a foundation of academic rigor, operational leadership, and strategic advisory roles.

Strategic:

Ronald excels at aligning tactical operations with long-term strategic objectives, whether managing billion-dollar programs or negotiating defense cooperation abroad. His vision consistently anticipates future challenges and crafts proactive solutions that drive institutional success.

Communication:

As a seasoned diplomat and policy advisor, Ronald is an articulate and persuasive communicator capable of navigating complex political landscapes. His fluency in Spanish and operational proficiency in Portuguese further enhance his global effectiveness.