“Glen Doherty and Tyrone Woods are American heroes for what they did.” “They ran a half-mile to the sound of gunfire.” These comments were made from Republican Congressmen Duncan Hunter. Mr. Hunter has proposed awarding the Congressional Gold Medal to SEALs Doherty and Woods for their actions defending the consulate in Benghazi on September 11th, 2012.
The Congressional Gold Medal, awarded by congress, is one of the highest civilian awards along with the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Since the American Revolution, Congress has commissioned gold medals as its highest expression of national appreciation for distinguished achievements and contributions. The medal was first awarded in 1776 by the Second Continental Congress to General George Washington. The law governing the medal requires the sponsorship of at least 290 House members and 67 senators before the award can be bestowed. In practice, however, bills such as Hunter’s have been taken up through “suspension of the rules,” which waive the sponsorship requirement. Hunter’s bill has nine GOP co-sponsors, and he said he intends to seek more and speak to House leadership soon about the effort.
Doherty and Woods were working as private security and intelligence contractors in Benghazi when the assault on the consulate occurred. Despite receiving orders to remain at a CIA compound, these two SEALs grabbed their weapons and ran to the sound of the attack. Although outnumbered, Doherty and Woods engaged the enemy and provided support to consulate personnel. Doherty and Woods distinguished themselves conspicuously by gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of their life above and beyond the call of duty.
I urge everyone to contact your Congressmen and ask for their support for Mr. Hunters proposed award for Glen Doherty and Tyrone Woods.
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