Bryan is a native of Clifton Park, New York. He enlisted in the Army Reserves in 1986 as a Medical Supply Specialist while attending Norwich University. In 1988 Bryan transferred to the 3-172 Mountain Infantry. In 1990, Bryan was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant into the Armor/Cavalry Branch. He was assigned to the 2d Squadron 2d Armored Cavalry Regiment in Bamber Germany as a Tank Platoon Leader. Bryan served in various assignments throughout the US, Europe, and the Middle East leading/Commanding from the Platoon to Regimental levels with service on the Joint Staff.