John Harris, Chief Analysis and Liaison Officer

Mr. Harris currently serves as TSSI’s Chief Analysis and Liaison Officer. In his current capacity, he oversees TSSI’s Transportation Security Administration's (TSA) "First Observer" trucking security program. He joined TSSI in 2008 after leaving the Transportation Security Administration. Mr. Harris holds a Juris Doctorate (JD) and LLM degree. As the 10th employee hired by the Maritime and Land Security Section of TSA, Mr. Harris made a profound impact on the agency during his tenure at TSA. He developed the Surface Transportation Watch at the Transportation Security Operations Center (TSOC) and encouraged and invited industry participation, bridging the public and private sector. In addition, Mr. Harris served as an operations liaison for operations and exercises, as well as a liaison with Federal Security Directors and a Coordinator for Visual Intermodal Prevention and Response Teams.

Serving our nation in the U.S. Marine Corps for more than 21 years, Mr. Harris authored the rules of engagement for Desert Shield/Desert Storm during the first Gulf War while serving on General Schwarzkopf’s staff and was recognized with numerous merit awards and commendations. In Cuba, John served as the senior judge advocate advising the commander of Joint Task Force 160. He represented the military’s position in law suits filed by a number of plaintiff’s against the Commander in Chief, et al. His successful efforts resulted in the Attorney General of the United States awarding him a John Marshall Award in 1995. Mr. Harris retired from the USMC in 1999, at which time he established and successfully ran his own law firm until he was requested to return back to Government service after the events of 9/11/2001.

Mr. Harris’ military awards included the Bronze Star Medal (for merit vice valor); Defense Meritorious Service Medal; Meritorious Service Medal; Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal; Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, as well as the Marine Corps’ Expeditionary and Humanitarian Service Medals. John was awarded Bronze, Silver and Gold awards at the first TSA Banquet. Mr. Harris was nominated for and won the National Cargo Security Council (NCSC) National Government Leadership Award – 2003.

Mr. Harris has vast experience in planning and leading programs as they relate to critical infrastructure protection. He has demonstrated his ability to manage large federal contract support programs, and has designed, developed, and disseminated information to the government at its highest levels.

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