Joe Kent

Awards & Honours

Awards Won

Honours

Covers

Records

Joe Kent's career is distinguished by his service in elite military and intelligence units. He is one of the few individuals to have served as both a Green Beret and a CIA paramilitary officer, a combination that speaks to his specialized skills. His Bronze Star with Valor and Purple Heart mark his combat bravery. His appointment as NCTC Director places him at the head of the nation's counterterrorism efforts, a role that draws on his operational experience. He has been recognized by veteran service organizations for his advocacy work following his wife's death.

AwardsKent's awards are military decorations earned during his service. He received the Bronze Star Medal with V device for valor, the Purple Heart for wounds sustained in combat, the Army Commendation Medal with three oak leaf clusters, the Army Achievement Medal with two clusters, and several campaign and service medals. He also received the CIA Exceptional Service Medal for his intelligence work.

Honours & Distinctions

Congressional Testimony

House Foreign Affairs Committee·2019

Invited to testify regarding the Manbij attack and U.S. policy in Syria.

Magazine Covers

The American Conservative

2022-06-01

The Veteran Who Wouldn't Be Silenced

Washington Examiner

2023-03-15

Joe Kent: From Green Beret to Political Fighter

Records & Feats

First Green Beret to become NCTC Director

Career Milestone·2025

Kent is the first former Army Special Forces soldier to serve as Director of the National Counterterrorism Center.