John “Tig” Tiegen is a former U.S. Marine Sergeant and security contractor renowned for his heroic actions during the 2012 Benghazi attacks.
Serving with the CIA's Global Response Staff, Tiegen was part of the elite team that defended the U.S. diplomatic compound and CIA Annex against militant assaults on September 11, 2012, saving numerous lives over 13 grueling hours.
With over 13 years in high-threat security for Blackwater and government agencies, he has deployed to Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Iraq.
Tiegen co-authored the New York Times bestseller 13 Hours: The Inside Account of What Really Happened in Benghazi (2014) and served as a consultant for Michael Bay’s film adaptation (2016).
A sought-after motivational speaker, he shares lessons on leadership, resilience, and teamwork through his organization Beyond the Battlefield, supporting veterans and first responders.
He continues advocating for truth, patriotism, and mental health awareness, often speaking at events about overcoming adversity.
Tiegen is running for mayor of Colorado Springs.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction & Welcoming John “Tig” Tiegen
00:45 Background, Military Career & Blackwater
04:20 Reflections on Benghazi & Leadership Accountability
12:00 Childhood Trauma & Military Aspirations
27:00 Family Dynamics & Breaking the Cycle
47:00 Marine Corps & Finding Stability
01:07:00 Post-Military Life & Contracting with Blackwater
01:29:00 Rescue Missions, Afghanistan & Pakistan Operations
01:42:00 Benghazi Attack Begins
01:47:00 The Stand-Down Order & Aftermath
02:13:00 Second Wave of Attacks & Defense Efforts
02:23:00 Rescue, Evacuation & Casualties
02:31:00 Controversies, Testimonies & Public Perception
03:01:00 Writing the Book & Team Dynamics
03:20:00 PTSD, Medical Struggles & Healing
03:37:00 Running for Mayor & Looking Ahead
03:47:00 Final Reflections & Advice
Tiegen’s Book
