Van Hipp

Van Hipp brings decades of business, political, and military experience to his position as the Chairman of American Defense International, Inc. (ADI). Based out of Washington, D.C., ADI provides consultancy services to more than 80 organizations in 10 different countries on a range of public relations, government affairs, and business development issues. Before joining ADI, Van Hipp held various positions within the United States armed forces, including active duty service during Operation Desert Storm and Operation Restore Democracy. Van Hipp acted as the Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army during the first Gulf War, overseeing the deployment of reserve troops for Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. In the wake of the Tailhook Scandal in 1991, Hipp was designated as the Principal Deputy General Counsel of the Navy by then Secretary of Defense Dick Cheney. As one of the top lawyers in the Navy, Van Hipp assisted in matters associated with the group’s legal interests. Since concluding his military service, Van Hipp has continued to support the nation through his participation on the President Council's at the National Safe Skies Alliance. He utilizes his military experience and political acumen to contribute as a commentator on Fox News and other leading cable news networks including CNN, MSNBC, and Sky News Channel. He has also written numerous articles pertaining to the country’s war on terror and international relations. Van Hipp plays an active role with The Salvation Army as well, currently serving on the Advisory Boards for The Salvation Army National Capital Area Command and The Salvation Army Alexandria Citadel Corps. A native of South Carolina, Van Hipp holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from Wofford College and a Juris Doctor from the University of South Carolina School of Law. He has maintained close involvement with his alma mater Wofford College, winning the National Young Alumnus of the Year Award in 1990 and then leading the National Alumni Association as the President.