1776Reporting
More than a decade later, the 2012 Benghazi attack remains a defining moment in U.S. history. On September 11, 2012, militants launched a coordinated assault on a U.S. diplomatic compound and a CIA annex in Benghazi, Libya. The tragedy claimed the lives of four Americans, including U.S. Ambassador Chris Stevens. Now, former Army Ranger Kris Paronto is shedding new light on the harrowing events of that night, describing a moment he attributes to divine intervention.
The attack and the ensuing firefight spanned 13 hours, a period marked by intense danger and uncertainty. The events sparked widespread political scrutiny, with countless investigations scrutinizing security failures and decision-making at the highest levels of government. Many of these inquiries focused on then-Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, questioning whether more could have been done to prevent the attack. One of the most controversial topics remains the alleged “stand down” order, which delayed the security team’s response by 20 minutes. While some officials deny such an order was given, several operatives, including Paronto, insist it happened.
Kris Paronto recently appeared on The Shawn Ryan Show to recount his experience during the infamous attack. He vividly described a moment when he felt death was imminent. “I hear a ‘boom’ from a distance. I know that’s an RPG. And I just go like this (and tense up), because I know I’m dead. So I’m just hoping I hear the second boom, because if I do, I know I’m alive. And I do. I hear it, ‘boom,’ it blows up. And all that came in my head was, ‘Ranger battalion, what’s your cover, ranger?’ Bullets. ‘What do you do when someone is shooting at you?’ You shoot back.”
Paronto’s instincts kicked in, but he believes something greater was at play that night. He described what he calls a “Hand of God” moment, a phenomenon he’s never experienced before or since. “I took a knee on that road and I just started shooting. I’ve never felt the ‘Hand of God’ before. I’ve never felt it again. I do really believe we all get one ‘Hand of God’ moment where he steps in and protects you, and I did. God pities the one who needs to be pitied and he says, ‘I gotchya.’ And I felt a gold cocoon come on top of me. It was a golden egg… (I thought) ‘God’s got me.’ Just a golden egg, it felt warm. It was a physical feeling, warm, ‘I got you.’ I just felt safe.”
Adding to the surreal nature of the moment, Paronto recalled a stranger appearing at his side in the heat of battle. “A Libyan man in slacks and a button shirt, like he just got off work, took a knee right next to me and started laying down more supporting fire,” Paronto shared. He never saw the man again and has no idea who he was. For Paronto, it was another sign that he had been divinely protected.
The attack in Benghazi has been portrayed in books, documentaries, and even Michael Bay’s film 13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi, which highlights the bravery of the six-man security team. Tyrone Woods, Jack Silva, Mark Geist, John Tiegen, Kris Paronto, and Dave Benton risked everything to protect those under siege. Tragically, Woods and Navy SEAL Glen “Bub” Doherty were killed in the firefight.
For many, the Benghazi attack is a story of heroism and sacrifice. For Paronto, it’s also a testament to faith and resilience. His story offers a rare glimpse into the courage it takes to face overwhelming odds and the profound experiences that emerge in the midst of chaos.
To hear more of Kris Paronto’s powerful account, watch his full interview on The Shawn Ryan Show. His firsthand perspective sheds light on one of the most challenging nights in recent American history, reminding us of the bravery displayed by those who stood their ground in the face of danger.
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings