13 Hours: The Inside Account of What Really Happened in Benghazi - Book Review
"13 Hours: The Inside Account of What Really Happened in Benghazi" by Mitchell Zuckoff is a gripping and harrowing account of the 2012 attack on the U.S. diplomatic compound in Benghazi, Libya. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the events of that fateful night and the human cost of the attack.
A First-Hand Account of the Battle
The book is primarily based on interviews with the six members of the security team who defended the compound. These men, members of the Global Response Staff (GRS), are the true heroes of the story. Zuckoff skillfully weaves their accounts into a vivid and immersive narrative that captures the chaos and terror of the attack.
The author doesn't shy away from the brutality of the attack. He details the fierce fighting, the injuries sustained, and the ultimate sacrifice made by two of the GRS members. The book is not for the faint of heart, but it is a powerful and necessary testament to the courage and sacrifice of those who put their lives on the line to protect their fellow Americans.
Beyond the Attack: A Critique of the Response
While the book focuses primarily on the events of the attack itself, Zuckoff also raises questions about the response of the U.S. government. He paints a picture of bureaucratic delays, conflicting orders, and a lack of communication that hindered the GRS's ability to respond effectively.
Zuckoff is careful not to explicitly blame anyone for the attack or the shortcomings in the response. However, he does raise serious questions about the decisions made by the U.S. government in the lead-up to and during the attack.
A Powerful and Moving Story
"13 Hours" is a powerful and moving story that is both informative and deeply personal. It is a tribute to the courage and sacrifice of the GRS members who fought bravely against overwhelming odds. The book is also a cautionary tale about the importance of effective leadership and communication in times of crisis.
Overall
"13 Hours" is a must-read for anyone interested in the events of the 2012 attack in Benghazi. It is a gripping and harrowing account that will stay with you long after you finish reading it. This book is not just a story about a tragic attack; it is a story about the human cost of war, the importance of courage, and the need for accountability in the face of tragedy.
