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Foxtrot in Kandahar, Part 2: Showdown in Takhteh-Pol | CIA

Jun 10, 2025
Veteran CIA Officer Duane Evans shares gripping tales from his deployment to Afghanistan following 9/11. He recounts the challenges faced by Team Foxtrot during their perilous journey to Kandahar. Tensions mount as they confront Al-Qaeda while navigating chaotic terrain. Duane vividly describes dramatic airstrikes and the emotional toll of casualties. He reflects on the delicate balance of securing operations amid constant threats. With personal insights, he highlights the fragility of hope amidst the harsh realities of conflict.
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ANECDOTE

Life-Threatening Prisoner Encounter

  • Duane Evans had a life-threatening encounter when an Al-Qaeda prisoner tried to kill him at a roadblock.
  • The struggle ended with the prisoner being shot by Afghan fighters, marking Duane's first close call in Afghanistan.
ANECDOTE

Echo Team Friendly Fire Tragedy

  • Echo Team suffered friendly fire when a technical error caused airstrikes on their own position.
  • This tragic accident killed three operators and many Afghan allies, a disaster they hoped to never see again.
INSIGHT

Intel Thwarts Overseas Terror Plot

  • Documents found in Kandahar revealed an al-Qaeda plan to attack the USS Carl Vinson in Singapore.
  • These intelligence findings led to the first successful prevention of a terrorist plot outside Afghanistan.
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