Hugh Middleton

Hugh Middleton is a graduate of The Citadel, where he earned a degree in Business before beginning a distinguished career in Naval Special Operations that spanned more than three decades across military and civilian leadership roles.

A former Navy SEAL Lieutenant Commander, Hugh served with SEAL Teams One, Three, and Five, as well as the Naval Special Warfare Development Group. His service placed him at the forefront of some of the most demanding missions in defense of the nation, shaping a lifelong commitment to leadership, resilience, and service beyond the uniform.

Following his military career, Hugh continued supporting national security efforts in senior leadership roles within the private sector. He served as Director of International Training and Director of Maritime Operations at a global security firm, later managing intelligence analysts at a major defense company focused on IED threat characterization. He went on to co-found Kopis Mobile, serving as CEO and leading the development of app-enabled equipment supporting the Department of Defense, law enforcement, and private security operations.

Hugh currently serves as Chief Operating Officer for Crucial Defense Technologies. A lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, he has also dedicated his time to nonprofit service, including serving as Vice President of Operations for an organization supporting wounded, ill, and injured veterans.

As a Robert Irvine Foundation Ambassador, Hugh continues his mission of service by advocating for the strength, wellbeing, and success of the military and veteran community.