Christopher Stevens' Benghazi: Final Hours

What really happened during Christopher Stevens' final hours in Benghazi? How did a diplomatic mission turn into a deadly siege?

In Mitchell Zuckoff's book 13 Hours, we get an insider's view of the Benghazi attack. The author provides a gripping account of Christopher Stevens' Benghazi experience and the brave individuals who fought to save American lives that night.

Read on to discover the untold story of courage, sacrifice, and survival during one of the most controversial events in recent U.S. diplomatic history.

The Final Hours of Ambassador Christopher Stevens

A City in Turmoil

Benghazi, a city with a tumultuous history, was the backdrop for one of the most tragic events in recent U.S. diplomatic history. Christopher Stevens' Benghazi experience began as he arrived in this volatile Libyan city as the U.S. Ambassador. The region had long been marked by conflict, from Ottoman rule to Gaddafi's intentional neglect, setting the stage for the dangerous situation Stevens would soon face.

In the months leading up to September 2012, the security situation in Benghazi had been deteriorating rapidly. There were clear signs of escalating hostility, with attacks on Western embassies and personnel becoming more frequent. Just two days before Stevens' visit, the State Department issued a serious travel advisory, warning of the intensifying turmoil in the area.

The Night of the Attack

On that fateful night, the U.S. Special Mission Compound in Benghazi came under severe assault. A substantial group of armed militants, far outnumbering the few security personnel on site, quickly overwhelmed the compound's defenses. The attackers set fire to the main residence and adjacent barracks, creating a chaotic and dangerous situation.

As the buildings burned, Ambassador Stevens and computer specialist Sean Smith found themselves trapped in the inferno. The security team, facing overwhelming odds, made heroic efforts to locate and rescue them. They braved intense heat, toxic fumes, and continuous gunfire as they searched the burning structures.

A Desperate Search

The search for Stevens and Smith was hampered by hazardous conditions. Visibility was poor, and the presence of armed insurgents within the compound posed a constant threat. Despite maintaining radio communication and having backup forces, the security team faced immense challenges in their rescue efforts.

Throughout this critical period, the security personnel showed remarkable resolve. They used a variety of tactics and drew on their collective expertise to handle the escalating situation. Their quick and decisive actions demonstrated their commitment to protecting the American inhabitants of the compound.

The CIA Annex and Mounting Tensions

As the situation at the compound deteriorated, attention turned to the nearby CIA Annex. A team of former U.S. military personnel, now working for a clandestine organization, was poised to respond. However, their ability to act was initially hampered by conflicting orders.

Bob, the head of the CIA Annex, instructed the operators to stay put and rely on local militia assistance. This decision was met with skepticism and unease, particularly from team members like Tanto. The security team felt a pressing need to respond quickly, recognizing that any delay could be catastrophic.

A Bold Decision

Despite the lack of explicit orders, the team ultimately decided to act. They couldn't stand by while their colleagues were in danger. This internal conflict highlighted both the gravity of the situation and the deep commitment of the team members to their duties.

When they finally reached the compound, they faced a dire situation. The scale had tipped heavily against the Americans, and the operators found themselves in the midst of a fierce battle.

The Battle at the Annex

After evacuating survivors from the compound, the team faced another intense assault at the CIA Annex. They courageously withstood numerous well-coordinated attacks involving heavy artillery. The security personnel coordinated their movements, took up defensive positions, and used night-vision equipment to monitor enemy movements.

Their alertness paid off when they successfully ambushed a group of attackers who had unwittingly entered their territory. However, the assailants escalated their assault with mortar attacks, striking with alarming precision.

The Cost of Courage

The battle at the Annex came at a heavy cost. Brave individuals like Woods and Doherty lost their lives, while others like Geist and Ubben sustained serious injuries. The area bore clear signs of successive explosive assaults, underscoring the significant losses suffered.

Despite these losses, the team's determination never wavered. They persevered through the intense conflict, demonstrating exceptional resilience in the face of grave danger.

The Final Evacuation

As the situation became untenable, the decision was made to evacuate the remaining Americans from the Annex. The team leader's order to "Consolidate now" marked the beginning of their exit strategy. They seized a brief lull in the fighting as their opportunity to leave.

The evacuation was fraught with danger. The potential for ambushes and further attacks loomed large, and the team was acutely aware that the local militia tasked with ensuring their safe passage might not withstand another assault.

Honoring the Fallen

As the survivors reached the airport, they witnessed a solemn procession. The bodies of their fallen comrades, including Ambassador Stevens, were being transported past them. This poignant moment marked the end of their brave resistance and the beginning of a long journey home.

The remains were returned to the United States with full honors, paying respect to those who had made the ultimate sacrifice. In the aftermath, the survivors began their long process of recovery and reflection. The State Department honored the responders' valor with plaques and medals, a heartfelt expression of gratitude for their courageous deeds.

The legacy of Ambassador Christopher Stevens and those who fought alongside him in Benghazi continues to impact others. Through memorial funds and foundations established in their names, their sacrifice is remembered and their commitment to service lives on.