Julian Dorey Podcast

#326 - Delta Force Spy on 9/11, Benghazi & CIA's Tragic Mistake | Gary Harrington

Aug 5, 2025
Gary Harrington, a former Delta Force Operator, Green Beret, and CIA Officer, shares gripping insights from his military career. He discusses the complexities of intelligence work, the challenges faced in Afghanistan, and the pivotal moments around 9/11. Gary recounts harrowing experiences with Al-Qaeda and the emotional strain on military personnel. The conversation also explores the failures of U.S. leadership and the ethical dilemmas in spreading democracy, alongside personal anecdotes that highlight both the seriousness and absurdity of military life.
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INSIGHT

Easier to Topple Than Hold Power

  • Toppling a ruling power is easier than holding power long term.
  • The Taliban could be easily displaced, but ensuring lasting stability was the harder challenge.
ANECDOTE

Narrow Escape in Kabul Car Bombing

  • Gary Harrington narrowly escaped a suicide car bombing in Kabul while waiting for a contact in plain sight.
  • His instincts warned him about a suspicious vehicle moments before the attack occurred.
ADVICE

Trust Your Instincts in Missions

  • Always trust your instincts when something feels wrong in a mission.
  • Gary survived because he kept watching a suspicious car despite protocol advising otherwise.
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