Kris Paronto

Kris Paronto, also known as "Tanto," is a retired United States Army Ranger from the 2nd Battalion 75th Ranger Regiment and a private security contractor who has extensive experience in security operations across South America, Central America, the Middle East, and North Africa. Paronto, who has also worked with the U.S. Government’s Global Response Staff, conducting low-profile security in high-threat environments worldwide, is known for his role in the 2012 Benghazi attack on the U.S. diplomatic mission. His military and security expertise is grounded in over a decade of deploying in various hostile environments.

Paronto played a critical role in the CIA annex security team during the 2012 attack on the U.S. Special Mission in Benghazi, Libya, on September 11. He successfully helped to defend the annex and save over 20 lives during a relentless 13-hour battle. His firsthand experiences and leadership during this intense engagement are detailed in the book "13 Hours: The Inside Account of What Really Happened In Benghazi," authored by Mitchell Zuckoff along with Paronto and his five surviving team members, which was adapted into the film "13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi," where he was portrayed by Pablo Schreiber.

Born in Alamosa, Colorado, Paronto obtained his Bachelor’s Degree from Mesa State College in Grand Junction, Colorado, and his Masters Degree from The University of Nebraska at Omaha. His military career includes serving 4 years in the U.S. Army and an additional 4 years in the U.S. Army National Guard. He reached the rank of Sergeant before becoming a commissioned officer in 2003. He began contracting with Blackwater Security Consulting in 2003 and continued to work on various security contracts, including the Global Response Staff, until 2013.

Beyond the battlefield, Paronto is a respected author and speaker, sharing valuable insights on leadership, teamwork, and decision-making drawn from his extensive field experience. He authored "The Ranger Way: Living the Code On and Off the Battlefield," discussing the importance of excellence and strategic planning, and "The Patriot's Creed: Inspiration and Advice for Living a Heroic Life," published in October 2019. Paronto addresses themes such as turning adversity into opportunity and the importance of values like humility, strength, faith, and brotherhood in overcoming challenges.

Paronto is also the founder of the 14th Hour Foundation, a non-profit aimed at supporting Veterans, Military Contractor Personnel, and First Responders, and the owner and lead instructor of Battleline Tactical. He hosts the Battleline Podcast with Ian Scotto, engaging with his audience on a broad array of topics. His dedication extends into customized keynote presentations, engaging in pre-event activities, and directly interacting with audiences through panel discussions and Q&A sessions.