As we put time and distance between the events of September 11, 2012 in Benghazi, Libya, the clearer we understand what transpired that day.
We now know that Ambassador Chris Stevens, who perished, traveled in an armored vehicle and had, at least, nine armed security personnel with him. CNN reported that once word of the attack was known, other security personnel rushed to the scene to render assistance.
CNN — Two former Navy SEALs who were among four Americans killed last week in an attack on the U.S. Consulate in Benghazi, Libya, died after rushing to the aid of their colleagues, according to sources familiar with the incident.Glen Doherty and Tyrone Woods were in Benghazi as part of a security contractor force.On September 11, they were ensconced in the safety of an annex location in another part of the city when they got word that the main consulate building was under fire and the diplomats there — with an armed force of only nine people — were overwhelmed by the deteriorating situation.Doherty and Woods, along with other security personnel, left the secure annex and made their way to the chaotic scene, rounding up the consulate staff who were under attack and guiding them back to the second safe building.
via Former Navy SEALs died after coming to the aid of others – CNN.com.
Blame for the attack rests squarely on the attackers (who some identify as militias tied to the Libyan Islamic Fighting Group and Al Qaeda). Reconstructing the circumstances surrounding Ambassador Stevens presence in Benghazi and the subsequent attack on the consulate will be valuable in protecting US personnel in the Muslim world.
