In a major announcement, President Donald Trump has nominated Joe Kent, a former Green Beret and CIA officer, to lead the National Counterterrorism Center. Kent, who has dedicated his life to fighting terrorism, is being praised for his extensive military background and commitment to protecting America from various threats.
Trump shared the news on Truth Social, calling Kent a “great American hero” with vast experience in counterterrorism operations. “As a Soldier, Green Beret, and CIA Officer, Joe has hunted down terrorists and criminals his entire adult life,” Trump said in his post.
One of the most poignant aspects of Kent’s journey is the personal loss he experienced in the fight against terrorism. His wife, Shannon Kent, a Navy cryptologist, was tragically killed in a suicide bombing in Syria in 2019 while working to combat ISIS. Trump highlighted this personal sacrifice, saying, “Joe knows the terrible cost of terrorism, losing his wonderful wife, Shannon, a Great American Hero.”
Shannon Kent, 35, was remembered as an intelligent, accomplished woman, fluent in seven languages, and highly respected for her work in the Navy. Her service and sacrifice have left a lasting impact on her community, with local leaders praising her exceptional abilities and character.
Joe Kent, who has run for Congress in Washington’s 3rd District in 2022 and 2024, has spoken about his noninterventionist stance on foreign wars, shaped by his military experience and the loss of his wife. As the nominee for the National Counterterrorism Center, Kent is now poised to continue his mission to eradicate terrorism worldwide, from jihadist groups to cartels.
