John “Tig” Tiegen leverages over 13 years of high-profile security and force protection expertise within contract and government agencies along with his military experience as a Marine Sergeant, to bring a powerful, thought-provoking, and engaging presentation of his first-hand account of the Benghazi Attacks to his audiences.

As a former Military Sergeant and Infantry Squad Leader, John applied his military training as a Security Protection contractor for Blackwater Security on missions in Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Iraq. His work as part of the Central Intelligence Agency’s Global Response Staff would change his life forever. An integral team member, taking part in over 40 overseas deployments providing low profile security in high-threat environments throughout the world, cumulated in unexpected recognition on a global scale.

As the most experienced Annex Security Team member for CIA’s GRS, he was an essential part of the rapid response to the terrorist attack on September 11, 2012, when Islamic militants attacked the American diplomatic compound in Benghazi, Libya, killing four Americans, Ambassador J. Christophe Stevens, Information Officer Sean Smith, and two CIA operatives, Glen Doherty and Tyrone Woods, both former Navy SEALs.

In motivational, riveting, and inspirational presentations, John shares his intense story relaying his own actions, which directly saved the lives of many of his own team, and the combined heroic efforts of his team in saving over two dozen lives while fighting off terrorists for over 13 hours.

John received the Award for Heroism and Valor in recognition of his bravery.

John is co-author of 13 Hours: The Inside Account of What Really Happened In Benghazi in collaboration with members of the Annex Security Team and New York Times’ best-selling author, Mitchell Zuckoff. He was instrumental in providing real-life experiences as a consultant on the movie 13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi. John also assisted with the movie script and set design.

Having ‘retired’ from contract work, the married father of twins enjoys being at home in Colorado. His hobbies are camping, shooting, visiting with friends and enjoying time with his family.

John continues to share his knowledge and skill with organizations and the military community as a consultant, trainer, and professional speaker.