Matthew VanDyke

Matthew VanDyke is the Founder and Executive Director of Sons of Liberty International (SOLI), a non-profit security consulting and training organization.1 He is an international security expert with a diverse background in conflict zones and humanitarian efforts.

Professional Background

VanDyke holds a master's degree in Security Studies from the Georgetown University School of Foreign Service.1 He has over seven years of experience in North Africa and the Middle East, including involvement in various regional conflicts.1

Founding of SOLI

In 2014, VanDyke founded Sons of Liberty International in response to the execution of his friends James Foley and Steven Sotloff by ISIS.2 SOLI operates on a non-profit model, providing free security consulting and training to communities threatened by terrorism and insurgency.1

Military Experience

VanDyke is a combat veteran of the 2011 Libyan Revolution, where he served as a rebel fighter and was held as a prisoner of war for nearly six months.13 His experiences in Libya transformed him from a documentary filmmaker into a revolutionary.3

Filmmaking and Media

As a documentary filmmaker, VanDyke produced "Point and Shoot," which won the Best Documentary Award at the Tribeca Film Festival in 2014.3 The film chronicles his motorcycle journey through North Africa and the Middle East, as well as his involvement in the Libyan Civil War.3

Current Work

Through SOLI, VanDyke continues to provide military advising and training to communities facing threats from insurgency and terrorism.2 The organization has been involved in training Iraqi Christians to fight against ISIS and has expanded its operations to other conflict zones.14

Matthew VanDyke regularly appears as a media analyst and commentator on international security issues.1 His unique experiences and expertise have made him a notable figure in the fields of international security and humanitarian aid.