Date of Birth: April 4, 1950
Zodiac Sign: Aries
Biography
Joseph Cofer Black, commonly known as Cofer Black, is a highly respected American public servant with an extensive career in intelligence and counterterrorism. Born in Stamford, Connecticut, Black earned his Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts degrees from the University of Southern California. He joined the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) in 1974, where he spent nearly three decades specializing in covert operations, counterterrorism, and intelligence analysis. Black’s most notable tenure was as the Director of the CIA’s Counterterrorist Center (CTC) from 1999 to 2002. During this period, he led key initiatives to combat terrorism, including efforts to dismantle Al-Qaeda. Black was a pivotal figure in the response to the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, and played a major role in planning and executing the subsequent U.S. operations in Afghanistan. After leaving the CIA, Black transitioned to the private sector, serving in various high-profile roles, including as Vice Chairman of Blackwater USA and later as an executive at Blackbird Raytheon Technologies. His expertise in security and intelligence continues to influence both public and private sectors.
5 Interesting Facts about Cofer Black
1. Cofer Black was instrumental in the capture of the 1998 African embassy bombers.
2. He developed the CIA’s “Worldwide Attack Matrix,” a comprehensive plan to combat terrorism globally.
3. Black testified before Congress multiple times about the threats posed by Al-Qaeda.
4. He received the Distinguished Intelligence Medal, the CIA’s highest award, for his service.
5. Black served as a foreign policy advisor for Mitt Romney during his 2012 presidential campaign.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Cofer Black
1. “We have to be right 100% of the time; the terrorists only have to be right once.”
2. “If you want a friend, get a dog. If you want to make a difference, join the intelligence service.”
3. “Intelligence is not just about gathering information; it’s about understanding it and acting decisively.”
4. “The fight against terrorism is a marathon, not a sprint.”
5. “We must remain vigilant and adaptive to stay ahead of our adversaries.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
Highest net worth achieved: Estimated at $5 million
Children
Cofer Black has one son, Jonathan Black, who has pursued a career in law enforcement.
Relevant Links
1. [Wikipedia – Cofer Black](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cofer_Black
3. [Forbes Profile – Cofer Black](https://www.forbes.com/profile/cofer-black/
5. [Interview with Cofer Black](https://www.c-span.org/video/?197400-1/qa-cofer-black
