Among the rarest valor awards in the United States government.
The Intelligence Star is awarded for "voluntary acts of courage performed under hazardous conditions or for outstanding achievements or services rendered with distinction under conditions of grave risk." Mike was specifically cited for "extraordinary heroism" — a distinction held by fewer than fifty individuals in the Agency's history, the majority of whom received the award posthumously.
W. Michael Susong
Intelligence Officer — Public and Private Sectors
Mike founded Cerberus Consultants to deliver what conventional security firms cannot: intelligence-driven protection built on the same methods, networks, and analytical discipline that defined his clandestine service. His clients require a fundamentally different standard — one that is globally capable and unconditionally discreet.
Before Cerberus, Mike co-founded iSIGHT Partners — the first cyber threat intelligence company, now part of Google Cloud — and currently advises darkwatch.io, which identifies individuals who pose threats to families, business, and brands. A combat-decorated U.S. Army Major, he holds a Master's in strategic intelligence from the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA), and serves as a director for Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) oversight.
The principles that govern every engagement.
Discretion Above All
Every engagement is conducted with absolute confidentiality. Client identities, operational details, and outcomes are never disclosed.
Intelligence-Led
We lead with intelligence, not reaction. Every protective operation is informed by rigorous threat assessment and real-time situational awareness.
Operational Precision
Our operators execute with the discipline and precision developed through years of government service in the world's most demanding environments.
Client-First
We exist to serve our clients' interests — not to build a brand. Our success is measured entirely by client outcomes.