He Was Trained for War, but Nothing Could Prepare Him for Benghazi!

On the evening of September 11, 2012, a group of militants launched a coordinated attack on the U.S. State Department’s mission in Benghazi, Libya. The assault extended into the following day, spreading to a CIA outpost, and tragically took the lives of four Americans. Among them was retired Navy SEAL Glen Doherty, who gave his life defending American values.

The Early Life of Glen Doherty

Born and raised in Winchester, Massachusetts, Glen Anthony “BUB” Doherty was one of three siblings. From an early age, it was clear he had a passion for adventure. After graduating high school, he attended Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Arizona, where his love for thrilling experiences only grew.

Those close to him weren’t surprised when Doherty joined the Navy and became a SEAL. Known for living life on the edge, he enjoyed activities like mountain biking, skiing, and surfing. Additionally, he earned his private pilot’s license. Constantly pushing himself, he spent his free time studying aviation and medical techniques, which fueled his desire for self-improvement.

Becoming a Navy SEAL

In October 1995, Doherty made the life-changing decision to enlist in the Navy. After completing basic training, he attended Naval Hospital Corpsman School and later underwent Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL (BUD/S) training at Naval Base Coronado. His training also included attending the Basic Airborne Course at Fort Benning (now Fort Moore) and the John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center at Fort Bragg (now Fort Liberty).

Over the years, Doherty served with SEAL Teams 3 and 7, specializing as a paramedic and sniper. He played a significant role in operations across the Middle East, including responding to the USS Cole bombing in 2000, where 17 American sailors lost their lives.

Service in Afghanistan and Iraq

Though Doherty was considering retirement by 2001 due to reconstructive knee surgery, the tragic events of 9/11 pulled him back into action. He was deployed to both Afghanistan and Iraq, where he led U.S. Marines and helped secure vital oil fields during Operation Iraqi Freedom. He even participated in capturing Saddam Hussein’s palaces.

His dedication earned him several commendations, including the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with “V” Device, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and the Iraq Campaign Medal. He retired from the Navy as a petty officer first class.

Joining the CIA

After leaving the Navy, Doherty continued to serve his country by joining the CIA in 2005. His work took him to Libya, Israel, Kenya, Afghanistan, and Iraq, where he participated in key missions, including the rescue of Captain Richard Phillips from Somali pirates in 2009.

In the summer of 2012, Doherty was in Libya, assisting in recovering weapons looted during the civil war.

The 2012 Benghazi Attack

At 9:42 p.m. on September 11, 2012, 150 militants attacked the U.S. mission in Benghazi. Armed with automatic weapons and rocket-propelled grenades, they stormed the compound. Inside, U.S. Ambassador J. Christopher Stevens, Sean Smith, and other personnel sought refuge.

Despite efforts to protect them, both Stevens and Smith tragically lost their lives in the initial assault. Meanwhile, the CIA’s Global Response Staff (GRS), including Glen Doherty, raced to the scene to assist.

A Dangerous Rescue Mission

Upon reaching the mission facility, Doherty’s team realized they could not locate Ambassador Stevens. With the situation escalating, they rushed to the CIA outpost in Benghazi to reinforce its defenses, knowing that militants were likely to target it next.

By the time Doherty arrived, the base was already under siege. Gunfire, rocket-propelled grenades, and mortar rounds pummeled the building as those inside tried to hold off the attackers.

A Final Act of Courage

The battle continued through the night. As the militants intensified their assault, Doherty ran to assist fellow Navy SEAL and CIA officer Tyrone Woods, who was defending a rooftop position. In their efforts to protect the base, both men were killed by a mortar round.

Their sacrifice, along with the lives of Ambassador Stevens and Sean Smith, became a symbol of bravery in the face of overwhelming odds.

Aftermath and U.S. Response

In the wake of the attack, U.S. diplomatic security was heightened globally. Investigations revealed serious shortcomings in preparedness, leading to widespread reforms in how American missions are protected.

In honor of those who perished, criminal charges were brought against those responsible, and legislation was passed to award the Congressional Gold Medal to the four fallen Americans, including Glen Doherty.

Glen Doherty’s Lasting Legacy

At just 42 years old, Glen Doherty left behind a legacy of courage and service. He was laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery. His heroism, along with the others who fought that night, was immortalized in the 2016 film *13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi*.

To keep his memory alive, the Glen Doherty Memorial Foundation was established by his family. The foundation provides scholarships to special operations veterans transitioning back into civilian life. Additionally, BUBS Naturals, a company founded by Doherty’s friend Sean Lake, donates a portion of its profits to veterans’ charities, ensuring Doherty’s spirit of service lives on.

Glen Doherty’s story is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made in the name of duty and the lasting impact of those who serve.