#235 John "Tig" Tiegen - 13th Anniversary of the Benghazi Attacks
In this episode of the Shawn Ryan Show, John "Tig" Tiegen provides a detailed account of the September 11, 2012, attack on the U.S. consulate in Benghazi, Libya. As a former member of the CIA's Global Response Staff, Tiegen describes the events of that night, including the discovery of Ambassador Stevens and the loss of his teammates during mortar strikes. He also discusses the subsequent challenges in how the incident and his fallen comrades were handled.
The conversation explores Tiegen's background, from his difficult childhood in Cedar Rapids to his career progression through the Marine Corps and private security contracting. Tiegen shares his ongoing medical challenges following Benghazi, his perspective on the "13 Hours" project, and his current campaign for mayor of Colorado Springs, where he aims to address issues of government oversight and support for veteran communities.
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1-Page Summary
Tiegen's Experiences During the Benghazi Attack
John Tiegen shares his firsthand account of the September 11, 2012, attack on the U.S. consulate in Benghazi. Despite receiving a stand-down order from his superior "Bob," Tiegen and his team took defensive positions around the compound when the assault began. Around 1:30 a.m., they discovered Ambassador Stevens had died from smoke inhalation. The night culminated in tragic losses, including two of Tiegen's teammates, Roan and Bub, during mortar strikes. Tiegen expresses frustration over the delayed response from support teams and the subsequent mishandling of both the incident's narrative and his fallen comrades' remains.
Tiegen's Childhood and Upbringing
Born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Tiegen endured a difficult childhood marked by physical and sexual abuse from multiple perpetrators, including babysitters and his stepfather. His mother, who worked at a bar, provided little protection or supervision. These experiences shaped Tiegen's passionate advocacy for child protection and influenced his decision to wait until age 35 to have his own children. He credits his recovery partly to his military service and faith.
Tiegen's Military and Contracting Career
Inspired by military films and culture, Tiegen joined the Marine Corps in 1995, quickly rising to sergeant within three years. His leadership style emphasized preparing his squad members to perform duties above their rank. After transitioning to private security contracting post-9/11, Tiegen was selected for the CIA's elite Global Response Staff (GRS) program, where he handled various assignments from VVIP protection to operations in Afghanistan and Libya.
Aftermath of Benghazi on Tiegen's Life
Following Benghazi, Tiegen has faced numerous challenges, including medical issues such as vision problems and an autoimmune disorder diagnosed in 2020. He struggles with sleep issues but avoids prescription medications due to adverse effects. Tiegen expresses disappointment over financial and recognition issues related to the "13 Hours" book and movie, though he continues to honor his fallen teammates by sharing their stories at speaking events.
Tiegen's Current Political Aspirations
Tiegen is currently running for mayor of Colorado Springs, motivated by what he sees as government overreach during the 2020 lockdowns. His platform emphasizes limiting mayoral influence over law enforcement and empowering both the community and police. Despite facing challenges to his candidacy and operating with modest campaign funds of $20,000, Tiegen remains committed to his vision of citizen-controlled government and supporting veteran communities.
1-Page Summary
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- During the Benghazi attack, a stand-down order was given to security personnel, instructing them not to immediately respond or intervene in the unfolding situation. This order caused controversy as it delayed potential assistance to those under attack. The decision to issue a stand-down order has been a point of contention and scrutiny in the aftermath of the Benghazi events.
- Roan and Bub were John Tiegen's teammates who tragically lost their lives during mortar strikes in the Benghazi attack. They were part of Tiegen's team that took defensive positions around the U.S. consulate during the assault. Their deaths were among the losses suffered that night.
- The mishandling of the Benghazi incident primarily relates to the delayed response from support teams during the attack, the confusion surrounding the incident's narrative in its aftermath, and concerns about the treatment of the fallen comrades' remains. John Tiegen expressed frustration over these aspects, highlighting issues with how the situation was managed and communicated.
- The CIA's Global Response Staff (GRS) program is a specialized team within the CIA that provides security and rapid response capabilities for high-risk operations and personnel worldwide. GRS operatives are highly trained individuals with backgrounds in military and special operations, tasked with protecting CIA personnel and facilities in dangerous environments. They often work in close coordination with other intelligence and military units to ensure the safety and security of CIA assets. The GRS program is known for its quick deployment and ability to handle crisis situations effectively.
- The "13 Hours" book and movie are based on the firsthand accounts of the security team members who were involved in the Benghazi attack in 2012. The book, written by Mitchell Zuckoff with the Annex Security Team, details the events of that night. The movie adaptation, directed by Michael Bay, brings these events to the screen, focusing on the experiences of the security contractors during the attack. The title "13 Hours" signifies the duration of the intense conflict at the U.S. diplomatic compound and CIA annex in Benghazi.
- After the Benghazi attack, John Tiegen experienced vision problems and was diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder in 2020. These health issues are commonly associated with stress, trauma, and exposure to hazardous environments, which Tiegen encountered during his military and contracting career. The physical and mental toll of the Benghazi incident may have contributed to the development of these conditions. Tiegen's struggles with these health issues have impacted his post-Benghazi life and activities.
- "13 Hours" is a book written by Mitchell Zuckoff, detailing the accounts of the Benghazi attack, including John Tiegen's experiences. The financial and recognition issues Tiegen faced may relate to how his story was portrayed in the book and subsequent movie adaptation, potentially involving disputes over compensation or the portrayal of events. These issues could involve disagreements over royalties, accuracy in depicting Tiegen's role, or the overall impact on his reputation and legacy.
- During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, various governments worldwide implemented lockdowns to curb the spread of the virus. Some individuals and groups criticized these measures as government overreach, arguing that restrictions on businesses, gatherings, and movement infringed on personal freedoms and economic activities. Debates arose over the balance between public health concerns and civil liberties, with differing opinions on the necessity and extent of government intervention during a public health crisis.
- John Tiegen's platform for limiting mayoral influence over law enforcement suggests that he aims to reduce political interference in police operations. This could involve advocating for clearer separation between the mayor's office and law enforcement decision-making processes. By limiting mayoral influence, Tiegen may seek to enhance the autonomy and impartiality of police departments in carrying out their duties. This approach could potentially lead to a more independent and efficient law enforcement system within the community.
- John Tiegen's challenges to his mayoral candidacy in Colorado Springs may stem from factors like political opposition, limited name recognition, or differing policy stances. His modest campaign funds of $20,000 suggest he faces financial constraints compared to well-funded opponents, impacting his ability to run a large-scale campaign. This financial limitation could affect his outreach efforts, advertising presence, and overall campaign strategy. Despite these challenges, Tiegen remains committed to his vision and continues to pursue his political aspirations with determination.
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Tiegen's Experiences During the Benghazi Attack
Tiegen Recounts Benghazi Attack: Consulate Assault, Stand-Down Order, CIA Compound Attacks
John Tiegen shares his harrowing experience during the September 11, 2012, attack on the U.S. consulate in Benghazi. He vividly describes the stand-down order given by a superior named Bob and the defiance he felt as they were the only immediate support that could attempt a rescue of Ambassador Christopher Stevens and Sean Smith.
Tiegen describes how his team geared up and took their pre-designated defensive positions around the compound when the assault began. During a series of attacks, the defenders, barely seeing the flashes of gunfire due to the concealment of about 15-20 attackers, managed to repel the assailants after intense fighting.
The narrative then shifts to the tragic findings at the consulate, where around 1:30 a.m., the team found the ambassador's body. Tiegen confirms that the ambassador was not tortured but died due to smoke inhalation from the fire. This was verified around 3 a.m., which was also when they heard that a support team had landed at the airport. However, subsequent attacks with RPGs over the walls persisted.
Despite previous warnings from local militia about the lack of support and a desperate plea over the radio, the initial hesitant response delayed immediate aid resulting in deaths.
Tiegen Frustrated by Lack of Accountability and Distortion or Denial of That Night's Facts
Tiegen struggles with the aftermath of the attack, especially the frustration over Bob's refusal to allow immediate response, the controversial stand-down order, and the confusion over why assistance from Delta Force and the Tripoli team came too late. He also recounts instances where Bob's risk-averse nature had hindered their operational capability.
Tiegen recalls various close calls, including a near miss from an ambush and the silence of a calm city on what would unfold into a night of chaos.
Tiegen Highlights Teammates' Bravery, Sacrifices, and the Importance Of Honoring Their Memory
Amidst the chaos, Tiegen remembers the bravery of his teammates, including Delta Force members' arrival just before a barrage of mortar strikes, which led to casualties among his team. He sternly recounts the moment two of his teammates, Roan and Bub, were killed and expressed his frustration over the disrespectful handling of their bodies, as well as the overall response that was tangled in bureaucratic reluctance and insufficient accountability.
Tiegen is deeply hurt not only by the loss of his teammates but by the skewed narratives that followed, challenging reports about the Medal of Honor and t ...
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Tiegen's Experiences During the Benghazi Attack
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Actionables
- You can write a personal reflection journal to process complex events and honor personal experiences, much like Tiegen does with his memories. Start by setting aside a few minutes each day to write about your experiences, focusing on the emotions and lessons learned. This practice can help you understand your reactions to challenging situations and ensure that important personal and historical events are remembered from your perspective.
- Create a small tribute space in your home to acknowledge the sacrifices of others, similar to how Tiegen honors his fallen teammates. This could be a dedicated shelf with mementos such as photos, medals, or symbolic items that represent the courage and dedication of people you admire. It serves as a daily reminder of the values you hold dear and the importance of recognizing bravery and sacrifice in others.
- Engage in community dis ...
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Tiegen's Childhood and Upbringing
John Tiegen's life, marked by a traumatic childhood that included physical and sexual abuse, illustrates a stark reality that shaped his views on child protection and advocacy.
Tiegen's Traumatic Childhood of Physical and Sexual Abuse
Tiegen Recounts Abuse by Babysitters, Adults, and Stepfather, Lack of Protection From Mother
Born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, John Tiegen grew up without a structured family life. His mother worked at a bar and was frequently absent, providing little supervision or protection for Tiegen, who sought refuge at a nearby Army recruiting station for snacks and posters. Abuse began early on with a babysitter being the first known abuser. As he grew older, he faced multiple abusers, including attacks during his kindergarten years. Tiegen's sense of safety was further eroded when his stepfather, who would sometimes use a belt to beat him and his siblings, and his mother's boyfriends mistreated them. His sister may not have suffered the same abuse, and his family seemed unaware of the sexual abuse he faced. On one occasion, his cousin stepped in and saved him from an ongoing abuse incident, leading to police involvement but no conviction due to insufficient evidence.
Tiegen On how Experiences Shaped His View on Child Protection and Abuse Advocacy
These experiences, while deeply scarring, have informed Tiegen's lifelong dedication to child protection and advocacy. He became guarded and adopted violent tendencies as a means of self-protection following his abuse. The lack of support from his mother, who dismissed his abuse, led him to stress the importance of speaking up against abuse. He underscores that one should not let such harm happen to society's "number one asset" and believes that abusers should fa ...
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Tiegen's Childhood and Upbringing
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Actionables
- You can create a safe communication space for children by designating a specific area in your home where they can express their feelings without judgment or interruption. This encourages open dialogue and can help children feel more comfortable disclosing any issues they're facing, similar to how Tiegen emphasized the importance of speaking up against abuse.
- Start a personal tradition of weekly self-reflection to identify and address any negative behavioral patterns you might have adopted from past experiences. This could involve journaling or meditating on your actions and reactions, helping you to break cycles of behavior that don't serve your well-being or that of those around you.
- Volunteer your time w ...
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Tiegen's Military and Contracting Career
John Tiegen's rise through the military to contracting reflects a tale of discipline, preparation, and adaptability. His experience ranged from Marine Corps leadership to intense contractor work, including his infamous involvement in the 2012 Benghazi attack.
Tiegen's Rise Through Marine Corps Ranks
Tiegen describes how his childhood fascination with the military, partly inspired by the film "Full Metal Jacket," led to his disciplined pursuit of joining the Marine Corps. Entering boot camp in 1995, he found it physically undemanding and leveraged the leniency due to a shortage of drill instructors.
Tiegen's Military Background and Discipline Inspired Joining the Marine Corps
Reflecting on his interest in the military as early as second grade and his meticulous research on the Vietnam War during high school, Tiegen valued the discipline and structure he observed in military life compared to his familial environment. This ethos stayed with him and would later influence how tightly he ran his squads.
Tiegen's Quick Rise to Sergeant & Focus On Preparing Squad For His Absence
Ascending to sergeant within about three years, Tiegen had a distinctive approach that involved equipping his subordinates with the skills to perform his duties and those above his rank. His commitment to disciplined training and the readiness of his team members underscored his military values and likely contributed to his rapid promotion.
Tiegen's Shift To Contracting With the CIA's Grs Program
Tiegen details his transition from the Marine Corps to the uncharted terrains of private security contracting, ultimately being chosen for the CIA's elite Global Response Staff (GRS) program due to his tenacity and skills.
Tiegen on Initial Contractor Experiences: "Wild West" Environment and Vetting Importance
Transitioning into contracting post-9/11 after an interim in heating and air conditioning, Tiegen faced the "Wild West" of early contracting days around 2004-2005. This period was marked by a lack of established vetting processes and underscored by instances like contractors receiving subpar equipment and being inadequately prepared—realities that heightened the need for stringent vetting and training systems.
Tiegen Shares how His Skills and Experience Led To His Selection for the Elite Grs Program and His Rigorous Training and Qualifications
Despite the contracting sphere's chaotic beginnings, Tiegen's specialized military background—urban warfare instructor and assault climber within the Marine Corps—paved the way for his entry into the prestigious GRS program. Rigorous training, which in ...
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Tiegen's Military and Contracting Career
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Actionables
- You can develop adaptability by practicing decision-making in unpredictable scenarios, such as participating in improvisation classes or strategy-based gaming, where quick thinking and flexibility are essential.
- Improvisation classes often put you in unexpected situations that require you to adapt and respond without preparation, mirroring the unpredictability of real-life challenges. Strategy-based games, like chess or real-time strategy video games, force you to constantly adjust your tactics based on your opponent's moves, honing your adaptability skills.
- Enhance your leadership skills by volunteering to lead projects in your community or workplace, focusing on delegation and team development.
- Taking the lead on a community project, such as organizing a neighborhood clean-up or a charity event, gives you the opportunity to practice structuring tasks, delegating responsibilities, and preparing your team for success. In the workplace, you could offer to manage a cross-departmental project, which would allow you to develop your ability to lead diverse teams and prepare them for various outcomes.
- Cultivate resourcefulness by setting up personal challenges tha ...
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Aftermath of Benghazi on Tiegen's Life
In the aftermath of the Benghazi attack, John Tiegen has faced significant personal challenges, both medically and in terms of relationships and public perception.
Tiegen's Struggles With Issues After Benghazi
Tiegen has encountered numerous hardships since the events in Benghazi, affecting both his health and daily life.
Tiegen Discusses Medical Issues, Including Swelling, Autoimmune Disorder, and Contractor System Challenges
Tiegen has struggled with medical issues including vision problems that necessitated constant changes in prescription, "cornecosis" (likely keratoconus), which led to several surgeries and artificial lens insertion, as well as body swelling similar to diabetes. He was diagnosed in 2020 with relapsing polychondritis, an autoimmune disorder that attacks the cartilage and can be life-threatening. Tiegen also faced difficulties obtaining proper medical care due to the classified nature of their work, which barred him from seeking help through Veterans Affairs and directed him to specific doctors instead.
Tiegen Discusses Nightmares, Sleep Issues, and Choice to Avoid Prescription Sleep Meds Due to Side Effects
While Tiegen himself never suffered nightmares, he has experienced significant sleep issues which may be tied to a traumatic brain injury. After a negative experience with prescribed sleeping pills that induced disturbing dreams, he decided against taking any sleep aids. The nature of these sleep disturbances is a testament to the deep-seated impact his experiences have had on him.
Tiegen Acknowledges Depression, Without Suicidal Thoughts
Tiegen has talked about struggling with what might be considered symptoms of depression, such as a diminishing interest in activities he used to enjoy. However, he has clarified that he did not entertain suicidal thoughts during this time.
Impact of Benghazi on Tiegen's Relationships
The events in Benghazi and their aftermath have also strained Tiegen's relationships and perceptions, particularly in relation to financial and recognition issues stemming from the book and movie about the attacks.
Tiegen Frustrated Over Benghazi Book and Movie Financial and Recognition Issues
Tiegen has expressed frustration regarding the financial and recognition aspects tied to the "13 Hours" book and movie. Despite the book's success and the movie's high ratings, he feels that he and ...
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Aftermath of Benghazi on Tiegen's Life
Additional Materials
Actionables
- You can explore alternative therapies for sleep issues by researching and trying out methods like guided meditation, progressive muscle relaxation, or aromatherapy with essential oils like lavender, which may improve sleep quality without the side effects of medication.
- For example, before bedtime, spend 10 minutes practicing a guided meditation found on a free app or website, focusing on deep breathing and relaxation. Alternatively, use a diffuser with lavender oil in your bedroom to create a calming environment that could help ease you into sleep.
- Create a personal tribute to honor the memory of lost loved ones by setting up a small, dedicated space in your home with photos, mementos, and a journal for writing down memories or letters to them.
- This could be a shelf or a corner of a room where you feel comfortable and reflective. Regularly spend time there, perhaps on significant dates, to remember and celebrate their lives, which can be a therapeutic way to deal with loss and maintain a connection to them.
- Develop a support network by reaching out ...
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Tiegen's Current Political Aspirations
John Tiegen has cast his hat into the political ring, running for mayor of Colorado Springs.
Tiegen's Run For Colorado Springs Mayor
Tiegen Cites 2020 Lockdown Experiences and Desire to Oppose Government Overreach As Reasons for Mayoral Run
John Tiegen's mayoral bid is propelled by his strong reactions to the governmental approaches during the 2020 lockdowns, which he refers to as "stupid socialism lockdown, just infringement crap." He has expressed disdain for what he considers excessive government interference and has shared his proactive stance during the 2020 shutdowns, including participating in protests such as a large-scale bike ride against shutdown orders.
Tiegen's Priorities: Limit Mayor’s Law Enforcement Role, Empower Community and Police
Moreover, Tiegen articulates a distinctive stance on law enforcement, striving to prevent the mayor from unduly influencing the police chief, provided the chief acts constitutionally. He calls out the current administration for hamstringing the police, particularly regarding local-federal collaboration in stopping illegal activities. Tiegen is also vocal about the importance of police autonomy in protecting the community from various issues, including those stemming from illegal immigration. He draws a parallel between his vision for the mayor-police chief relationship with that of the president's relationship to the FBI, emphasizing his commitment to limit mayoral control over local law enforcement.
Tiegen: Support, Challenges, Wife's State Office Interest, Ballot Removal Attempts
Tiegen's political journey has been marked by enthusiasm and hurdles. When he spontaneously decided to run, he quickly mobilized to gather the necessary signatures. However, his path was not obstacle-free; he faced accusations challenging his residency in Colorado Springs, which he successfully refuted, and had to defend his use of the moniker "John 'Tig' Tiegen" as presenting his legitimate, trademarked identity. Though he recognizes the long odds against him and modest campaign funds of $20,000, Tiegen values the engagement he brings by motivating first-time voters. Regarding his personal life, his wife initially considered vying for a state seat but later decided to support his mayoral endeavors and prioritize her business education.
Tiegen's Approach to Politics and Serving ...
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Tiegen's Current Political Aspirations
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- John Tiegen was motivated to run for mayor of Colorado Springs due to his strong reactions to the governmental approaches during the 2020 lockdowns. He expressed disdain for what he considered excessive government interference during the lockdowns and participated in protests against shutdown orders. These experiences led him to emphasize the importance of limiting government overreach and empowering the community and law enforcement.
- John Tiegen's stance on law enforcement involves limiting the mayor's influence on the police chief to ensure constitutional actions. He emphasizes the importance of police autonomy in addressing community issues, including those related to illegal activities like illegal immigration. Tiegen aims to establish a relationship between the mayor and police chief similar to the president's relationship with the FBI, advocating for a balance that prioritizes community safety and limits mayoral control over law enforcement. His views on government overreach stem from his experiences during the 2020 lockdowns, where he criticized what he perceived as excessive government interference and expressed a desire to empower citizens to hold the government accountable.
- Tiegen faced challenges during his mayoral campaign, including accusations about his residency and defending his use of the moniker "Jo ...
Counterarguments
- Tiegen's view on the 2020 lockdowns as "stupid socialism lockdown, just infringement crap" may be seen as a dismissal of public health measures that were designed to protect the community.
- Limiting the mayor's influence on the police chief could potentially lead to a lack of accountability and oversight of the police department.
- The emphasis on police autonomy might overlook the need for civilian oversight to ensure that police actions align with community values and legal standards.
- While Tiegen faced challenges regarding his residency and nickname, these issues could be viewed as legitimate concerns about a candidate's transparency and eligibility.
- Engaging first-time voters is commendable, but it's important to ensure that all constituents, not just first-time voters, are represented and their concerns are addressed.
- The idea that law enforcement officers who enforce what he considers government overreach should resign could potentially undermine the rule of law and the off ...
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