#153 Kris Paronto - Inside the 13-Hour Benghazi Gunfight and the Hillary-Obama Cover-Up
Dec 30, 2024
auto_awesome
Kris Tanto Paronto, a former Army Ranger and CIA security contractor, shares gripping insights from his harrowing experience during the 2012 Benghazi attack, where he defended lives for 13 hours. He reflects on the emotional toll and long-lasting trauma faced by survivors, critiquing the political misrepresentation of the events. Kris also discusses the challenges of transitioning from military operations to private security, emphasizing the importance of responsible training in urban violence and the camaraderie formed in high-pressure environments.
Kris Paronto highlights the emotional and psychological toll of the Benghazi attack, shedding light on the complexities of trauma in military service.
He emphasizes the critical role of strong leadership during crises, illustrating how effective leaders can inspire their teams amid chaos.
Paronto shares his journey of healing and reconciliation with family, underscoring the importance of support systems for those coping with trauma.
The podcast discusses the significance of realistic training scenarios in the military, illustrating how preparedness can enhance performance in high-pressure situations.
Paronto reflects on the bond of loyalty and camaraderie formed among soldiers, emphasizing the selflessness exhibited during combat situations for the safety of comrades.
He also emphasizes the role of faith in his life, showcasing how spirituality has aided him in navigating personal challenges and finding purpose after trauma.
Deep dives
Introduction of Chris Peranto
Chris Peranto introduces himself as a former Army Ranger who responded to the Benghazi attack in 2012. He is also an author, public speaker, and founder of several organizations, including the 14th Hour Foundation and Battle Line Tactical. Peranto emphasizes his commitment to family and faith, highlighting his role as a father and husband. This introduction sets the stage for discussing his experiences during and after the Benghazi attack.
E3 Firearms Association Overview
Peranto discusses the E3 Firearms Association, an online training platform he co-founded. It focuses on providing firearms training alongside outdoor activities like camping and aviation. Despite struggles with promotion and visibility, the association offers videos and resources for members. Peranto emphasizes the importance of responsible training, highlighting concerns about the accessibility of tactics on social media.
Facing the Consequences of Benghazi
The conversation shifts to the Benghazi incident, detailing the emotional impact it had on Peranto and his team. He expresses anger at the political fallout, particularly regarding the administration's response and narrative surrounding the attack. Peranto reflects on the sense of betrayal felt by many involved, noting that their truth was obscured. The podcast emphasizes the need for accountability and transparency regarding the events of Benghazi.
Personal Reflection and Anger
Peranto shares his journey of coping with anger and trauma following the attack. He describes how feelings of rage and frustration affected his personal life, leading to a divorce and struggles with identity. The turning point for him came when he realized he needed to seek help and reconnect with his family. This revelation led to a path of healing and reconciliation with his wife and children.
Reconnecting with Family
After years apart due to his career, Peranto discusses his efforts to rebuild relationships with his family, especially with his children. He recounts the difficulty his kids faced in understanding his absence and the impact of his experiences on their relationship. Through patience and effort, he and his wife rekindled their bond, creating a more stable and loving environment for their children. Their journey highlights the importance of family support in overcoming personal struggles.
Training as a Tool for Preparedness
Peranto recounts the training he underwent during his military career, detailing the rigorous processes and the importance of preparation. He emphasizes the significance of realistic training scenarios in building confidence and readiness for unexpected situations. Sharing anecdotes from his experiences, he illustrates how training can help individuals navigate high-pressure environments. This discussion highlights the need for continuous learning and adaptability in dangerous contexts.
Reflections on Service and Sacrifice
Peranto reflects on the sacrifices made by those in combat, discussing the bond formed between soldiers and their commitment to protecting one another. He describes moments of selflessness, where individuals put themselves at risk for their comrades' safety. These reflections underscore the values of loyalty and camaraderie that define military service. This perspective also feeds into the broader conversation about the costs of war and its emotional toll on service members.
Impact of Leadership in Crisis
The discussion pivots to the importance of strong leadership in critical situations, particularly during the Benghazi attack. Peranto emphasizes how effective leaders can inspire their teams and maintain focus during chaos. He shares experiences with different commanders and their varied styles of leadership, which significantly impacted operations. Strong leadership not only enhances performance but can also save lives in high-stakes situations.
Making Tough Decisions
Peranto shares insights into the difficult decisions leaders must make during crises, particularly in life-or-death scenarios. He acknowledges the complexities of these choices and stresses the need to prioritize the team's overall safety. This discussion resonates with the experiences of service members who often grapple with moral dilemmas in the field. It emphasizes the weight of responsibility that falls on leaders when lives are at stake.
The Journey of Healing
Peranto discusses his ongoing journey toward healing and self-improvement following his experiences in combat. He emphasizes the importance of mental health, therapy, and seeking support from loved ones. His personal struggles serve as a reminder of the challenges many veterans face upon returning home. By sharing his journey, Peranto encourages others to prioritize their mental well-being and to seek help when needed.
The Role of Faith and Spirituality
Faith plays a significant role in Peranto's life as he navigates personal challenges and external struggles. He discusses how spirituality helped him find strength and purpose in his darkest moments. His testimony sheds light on the impact of faith in coping with trauma and loss. This theme resonates throughout the podcast, offering listeners hope and inspiration for their own journeys.
Life After Military Service
Peranto reflects on the transition from military to civilian life and the challenges that come with it. He shares his experiences of adapting to new roles and responsibilities while maintaining ties to his military background. This transition often includes facing societal misconceptions and the need for acceptance. By sharing his story, he aims to foster understanding and empathy for those navigating similar paths.
Legacy of Service and Responsibility
The podcast concludes with Peranto emphasizing the legacy of service and the responsibility that comes with it. He discusses the importance of sharing stories and experiences to honor those who served and sacrificed. He encourages a culture of remembrance and understanding for the realities of military life. Ultimately, his goal is to inspire a new generation to appreciate the sacrifices made by service members.
Kris "Tanto" Paronto is a former Army Ranger and CIA security contractor known for his role in the 2012 Benghazi attack, where he helped save over 20 lives while fighting off terrorists for 13 hours. He served four years in the Army Rangers and four years in the Army National Guard, achieving the rank of sergeant before commissioning in 2003. Paronto later worked as a private security contractor in various regions, including South America, Central America, the Middle East, and North Africa.
After his time with the CIA, Paronto became an author and public speaker, sharing his experiences from the Benghazi attack. He co-authored "13 Hours: The Inside Account of What Really Happened in Benghazi," which was adapted into a film. Additionally, he wrote "The Ranger Way: Living the Code On and Off the Battlefield" and "The Patriot's Creed: Inspiration and Advice for Living a Heroic Life." Currently, he is the lead instructor at Battleline Tactical, hosts the Battleline Podcast, and speaks at seminars and conferences worldwide.
NMLS 182334, nmlsconsumeraccess.org. APR for rates in the 5s start at 6.458% for well qualified borrowers. Call 866-781-8900 for details about credit costs and terms.
