The Real Story Behind 13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi
Introduction
On September 11, 2012, a terrorist attack on the U.S. diplomatic compound in Benghazi, Libya, resulted in the deaths of four American citizens, including U.S. Ambassador J. Christopher Stevens. The incident shocked the world and sparked controversy over the U.S. government's response to the attack. In 2016, Michael Bay's film "13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi" brought the story to the big screen, but how much of the movie is based on reality? Here's the real story behind the events of that fateful night.
The Attack on Benghazi
The attack on Benghazi was carried out by Ansar al-Sharia, a Libyan terrorist organization affiliated with al-Qaeda. The group had been gaining strength in Libya since the fall of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. On the evening of September 11, 2012, a group of militants launched a coordinated attack on the U.S. diplomatic compound, which was housing Ambassador Stevens and other U.S. officials.
The Security Team
The security team that defended the compound was comprised of six CIA contractors, all former U.S. military personnel:
- Tyrone "Rone" Woods: A former Navy SEAL and CIA security contractor.
- Glen "Hank" Doherty: A former Army Ranger and CIA security contractor.
- Jack Silva: A former Navy SEAL and CIA security contractor.
- John "Tig" Tiegen: A former Marine and CIA security contractor.
- Mark "Oz" Geist: A former Marine and CIA security contractor.
- Dave "Boon" Benton: A former Army Ranger and CIA security contractor.
These men, who were part of the CIA's Global Response Staff (GRS), were tasked with providing security for the compound and its occupants.
The Attack Unfolds
At around 9:40 PM local time, the militants launched a surprise attack on the compound, using RPGs, mortars, and small arms. The security team, who were stationed at a nearby CIA annex, immediately responded to the attack, despite being outnumbered and outgunned.
The team fought bravely, but they were soon overwhelmed by the sheer number of attackers. Ambassador Stevens and Information Officer Sean Smith were killed in the initial attack, while the security team fought to hold off the militants.
The Siege of the CIA Annex
As the attack on the compound continued, the security team retreated to the CIA annex, a nearby safe house. The annex was soon besieged by the militants, who launched a series of attacks throughout the night.
The security team, along with a small group of CIA personnel, fought to defend the annex, using sniper fire and machine guns to hold off the attackers. Despite being vastly outnumbered, they managed to repel several attacks, but at great cost.
The Tragic End
At around 5:15 AM, a mortar attack struck the annex, killing Tyrone Woods and Glen Doherty. The remaining security team members were forced to evacuate the annex, leaving behind the bodies of their fallen comrades.
The Aftermath
The attack on Benghazi sparked a political firestorm in the United States, with many questioning the Obama administration's handling of the incident. The lack of military response to the attack, as well as the perceived cover-up of the events, led to widespread outrage.
In the end, five individuals were killed in the attack: Ambassador Christopher Stevens, Information Officer Sean Smith, Tyrone Woods, Glen Doherty, and two Libyan security guards.
The Legacy of the Benghazi Heroes
The bravery and sacrifice of the security team on that fateful night in Benghazi will never be forgotten. Their heroism in the face of overwhelming odds is a testament to the courage and dedication of those who serve in the U.S. military and intelligence communities.
The story of the Benghazi attack serves as a reminder of the risks and sacrifices made by those who serve our country, and the importance of honoring their memory by telling their stories truthfully.
