A decade has passed since terrorists led a mob that attacked American diplomatic compounds in Benghazi, Libya. This senseless attack killed four Americans who were defending the United States’ consulate.

U.S. Ambassador J. Christopher Stevens was the first United States Ambassador to lose his life in the line of duty since 1979. United States Foreign Service officer and Air Force veteran Sean Smith, as well as combat-decorated Navy SEALs Tyrone S. Woods and Glen Doherty also gave their lives in defense of our nation.

Last month, Congress passed a bipartisan bill I wrote to posthumously award these four Americans the Congressional Gold Medal, which is the highest civilian honor the Congress has to offer.

This recognition is long overdue for four heroes who gave their last breath fighting to advance the cause of freedom around the globe, and I cannot think of more deserving recipients of the Gold Medal.