Lecture with Chris Ponto on Benghazi and Life Experiences

Introduction

• Chris Ponto, former Army Ranger from the second Battalion, 75th Regiment.
• Responded to the Benghazi 2012 attack.
• Author of "The Ranger Way", "The Patriot's Creed", and co-author of "13 Hours".
• Motivational speaker, co-host of Battle Line Podcast, founder of several organizations including 14th Hour Foundation and Battle Line Tactical.
• Discusses the difficulties with E3 Firearms Association, an online training platform.

Discussion on E3 Firearms Association

• E3 is a paid online training platform for firearms and outdoor activities.
• Emphasizes the importance of controlled content to ensure it's not misused by the wrong audience.
• Discusses challenges faced due to state-run media and internet control.

Personal Life and Military Career

• Childhood in Colorado, influenced by athletic family background.
• Joined military inspired by Ranger videos despite having flunked out of college initially.
• Experiences in the military, dealing with personal crises like divorce and suicide attempt.
• Left the Army but rejoined after two years, completed training again, showing resilience.

Contracting Career

• Transitioned to contracting, initially with Blackwater, which included high-risk postings in Iraq.
• Describes experiences on Route Irish in Baghdad, known for being extremely dangerous.
• Discussed involvement with Greystone, an offshoot of Blackwater aimed at training security personnel in South America.

Experience in Benghazi

• Transitioned to GRS (Global Response Staff) under the CIA.
• Deployed to Libya, initially in Tripoli, then to Benghazi.
• Explains the pre-attack environment in Benghazi and ignored intelligence warnings.

Benghazi Attack Details

• Recounts the attack on the Benghazi compound on September 11, 2012.
• Describes the delay in response due to orders to "stand down".
• Highlights the bravery and teamwork during the attack, despite overwhelming odds.
• Experiences of fighting off attackers and the emotional toll of losing comrades.

Aftermath of the Attack

• Evacuation of survivors and the challenges faced during the evacuation.
• Frustration over the lack of military support and the subsequent political fallout.
• Describes personal struggles with anger and PTSD following the attack.

Personal Reconciliation and Family

• Shares journey to overcoming anger, reconciling with faith and family.
• Re-marriage with his wife after overcoming personal difficulties.
• Emphasis on the importance of family and maintaining relationships.

Reflection and Current Life

• Discusses life changes post-Benghazi, reducing public engagements, and focusing on family.
• Highlights the importance of personal growth, faith, and finding peace.