• A man wearing sunglasses, a cap, and military-style clothing holding a rifle outdoors in a desert landscape with hills and sparse vegetation.

    Matthew Cerniglia

    IMPACT DIRECTOR | BTB COMMITTEE MEMBER

    Matt was born and raised in Canoga Park, California, and now resides in Simi Valley with his wife and their two children. He enjoys spending time outdoors camping, shooting, practicing martial arts, and giving back to his community through teaching and coaching.
    Matt is a twelve-year combat veteran of the United States Marine Corps Infantry, serving in multiple countries. He deployed to Iraq in 2003 with 2nd Battalion 23rd Marines as a squad leader for the 81mm mortar platoon in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, earning numerous awards and commendations, including the 2003 Non-Commissioned Officer of the Year. 

    Following his military service, he joined the Los Angeles Police Department, where he has served for over two decades. His dedication and leadership have been recognized through multiple awards, including the 2017 LAPD Instructor of the Year.

    Throughout his adult life, Matt has dedicated himself to defending and serving others, whether protecting his country overseas, safeguarding the citizens of Los Angeles, or mentoring youth in his local community.
    “Since 2003, I have been in some of the darkest places inside myself and have seen what it has done to the people who love me the most. I have first-hand knowledge of how difficult it is to get the help people like me need, and now with the support of our great team, I can be a part of providing it.”