Michael H. Herson

Michael H. Herson is an American lobbyist and consultant for the United States defense industry, and serves as the president and chief executive officer of American Defense International (ADI). He was awarded the Secretary of Defense Medal for Outstanding Public Service in 1993.

Early life and education Herson, whose father was a World War II veteran, grew up in New Jersey. He began working at age 11. Herson painted poles, packed candy at warehouses, picked up garbage at drive-in movie theaters, and worked at a fried chicken restaurant. Herson attended Georgetown University, where he earned his B.A. and master's degree in national security studies. Herson also holds a Juris Doctor from Rutgers University School of Law.

Herson returned to New Jersey when the county chairman contacted him about running for the United States Congress. Herson, who was working for a healthcare company at the time, won the Republican primary, but the campaign was lost to incumbent Frank Pallone Jr.

In 1995, Herson joined the defense lobbying firm American Defense International (ADI) and became president and CEO of the firm. ADI has worked with clients such as Northrop Grumman, Raytheon, General Dynamics and United Technologies Corporation. As of 2015, ADI had 70 client bases in eight countries.

Herson has been included on The Hill's list of Top Lobbyists from 2010 through 2019.

Other activities Herson is on the board of Surprise Lake Camp, and has his own wine label, Herson Family Vineyards. and on the advisory board of The Bronx Freedom Fund.