For 18 years, serving both in uniform and as a private security contractor, Kris “Tanto” Paronto deployed to the most dangerous places in the world to protect America and its interests.
On September 11, 2012, his life changed forever. When the U.S. Special Mission in Benghazi, Libya came under attack, he was part of the CIA annex security team that responded. All alone with no help, these “secret soldiers of Benghazi” fought off terrorists for 13 hours and saved over 20 American lives.
After giving up his career to go public and tell the truth about Benghazi, he found himself with a new platform. He has since dedicated himself to honoring and helping those who’ve served and sacrificed for America, after their mission or fight -- their “14th hour.”
Learn About “Tanto”Over the course of 13 hours in Benghazi, help never came for Kris and his teammates. And once he returned home, adjusting to a very different reality took time. One way or the other, it required a helping hand from friends and family.
After this experience, Kris founded the 14th Hour Foundation to help ensure that others who’ve served and sacrificed to protect the American homeland, as well as their immediate families, get the help they need.
Our MissionJoin the 14th Hour Foundation to directly help those who keep us safe.