Kris Paronto isn’t just a former soldier or CIA contractor – he’s a living symbol of courage, grit, and resilience. If you’ve followed the story of the 2012 Benghazi attack, his name likely rings a bell. Known by his comrades as “Tanto”, Paronto played a pivotal role in defending American lives during one of the most harrowing incidents in recent U.S. history.
But there’s much more to Kris Paronto than his actions during Benghazi. His journey – from military service to becoming a motivational speaker, best-selling author, and veterans’ advocate – is a testament to perseverance and unwavering dedication to personal growth and service.
Early Life – Raised with Discipline and Integrity
Kris Paronto was born on March 2, 1971, in Alamosa, Colorado, to James Paronto and Patricia Paronto. His father, James Paronto, is a former college football coach and athletic director. Growing up in a household led by a military man and coach gave Kris a strong foundation of discipline, resilience, and the value of hard work.
James Paronto’s influence played a significant role in shaping Kris’s future. Whether it was on the football field, at school, or during family life, the lessons from his father instilled a deep respect for leadership, teamwork, and accountability. These traits would later define Kris’s military and post-service career.
Kris pursued higher education, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Mesa State College (now Colorado Mesa University) and later completing a Master’s degree from the University of Nebraska at Omaha. However, despite his academic achievements, Paronto felt drawn to serve his country, following in his father’s footsteps.
Military Service and CIA Contracting
Kris Paronto’s path to the military wasn’t conventional, but it was purposeful. After college, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, eventually becoming part of the elite 75th Ranger Regiment. Over time, he transitioned to the U.S. Army National Guard, where he continued serving while balancing civilian life.
His military experience opened the door to a career as a CIA security contractor for the Global Response Staff (GRS) – a covert unit tasked with protecting American intelligence personnel in dangerous environments. This role would place him in some of the world’s most volatile regions and, eventually, in Benghazi on that fateful night in 2012.
Benghazi – The Night That Defined Him
On September 11, 2012, Kris Paronto’s life changed forever. The U.S. diplomatic compound and CIA annex in Benghazi, Libya, came under attack by militants, sparking a chaotic 13-hour firefight. Paronto and five other CIA contractors – known as the Annex Security Team – sprang into action to defend the compound, despite receiving orders to stand down.
During the attack, the team fought valiantly, saving the lives of over 30 Americans. However, the assault claimed the lives of four, including Ambassador J. Christopher Stevens. The bravery of Kris and his team ensured that the situation didn’t spiral further, preventing greater loss of life.
The Benghazi attack was later immortalized in the book and film “13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi”, bringing international recognition to Kris and his fellow contractors.
Life After Benghazi – Writing, Speaking, and Advocacy
Following his retirement from CIA contracting, Kris channeled his experiences into writing and public speaking. His memoir, “13 Hours: The Inside Account of What Really Happened in Benghazi,” co-authored with journalist Mitchell Zuckoff, became a New York Times bestseller and provided readers with a firsthand account of the events.
Kris’s second book, “The Ranger Way: Living the Code On and Off the Battlefield,” delves deeper into the principles he learned as a U.S. Army Ranger – focusing on perseverance, mental toughness, and personal accountability. It’s more than just a military story; it’s a guide on how to approach life’s toughest challenges with courage and resilience.
As a motivational speaker, Paronto travels the country, sharing his story with corporate audiences, veterans’ groups, and college students. His talks emphasize overcoming adversity, teamwork, and never backing down, regardless of the odds.
Family Life and Personal Values
At 53 years old, Kris Paronto remains grounded by faith, family, and the values instilled in him by his father. Kris is married and has children, though he tends to keep much of his personal life private. His wife and kids remain a crucial part of his support system, and Paronto often credits his family with keeping him humble and focused.
Today, Kris resides in Omaha, Nebraska, where he enjoys a quieter life away from the spotlight. His net worth is estimated to be around $2 million, a testament to his successful transition from military life to writing, speaking, and consulting. But for Kris, success isn’t measured by wealth – it’s about the impact he makes on others.
A Champion for Veterans and Patriots
One of the things that sets Kris apart is his unwavering support for veterans, first responders, and active-duty military personnel. He frequently lends his voice to initiatives that assist veterans in transitioning to civilian life, combatting PTSD, and finding employment after service.
Paronto is also deeply involved in charities and non-profits dedicated to mental health and suicide prevention among veterans. His advocacy extends to pushing for better healthcare and services for those who have served the country.
Leaving a Lasting Legacy
Kris Paronto’s story isn’t just about Benghazi – it’s about perseverance, loyalty, and the ability to transform hardship into something meaningful. His life reflects a simple but powerful belief: “You can’t always control what happens to you, but you can control how you respond.”
Through his books, speeches, and outreach, Kris continues to inspire countless individuals to lead with courage and live with integrity. His influence stretches far beyond military circles – touching the lives of anyone facing personal battles or seeking to grow stronger in the face of adversity.
In a world that can often feel chaotic, Kris Paronto stands as a reminder that true leadership is about stepping up, standing tall, and protecting what matters most – whether on the battlefield or at home.
