Ric Prado Discusses Leadership At CIA After 9/11

Ric Prado had an extraordinarily distinguished twenty-four-year career at the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). Prado’s journey through the world of paramilitary, counter-terrorism, and clandestine activities reads like a gripping novel, one that we have the privilege of delving into today.

A Career of Distinction

Ric Prado’s career at the CIA is a tapestry woven with experiences from six overseas posts, each adding a layer of expertise to his already impressive resume. From his role as Deputy Chief of Station in the Bin Ladin Task Force/Issues Station to his daring position as Chief of Station in a hostile Muslim country, Prado’s career trajectory defies convention and oozes with intrigue.

On the Frontlines of History: Counterterrorism During 9/11

One of the most riveting segments of our conversation with Ric Prado centers around his time as Chief of Operations in the CIA’s Counterterrorist Center (CTC) during the harrowing events of September 11th. With a depth of insight that only a seasoned veteran can provide, Prado takes us behind the scenes of the CIA/CTC’s efforts to navigate the aftermath of the attacks. His pivotal role in coordinating special operations activities, in conjunction with agencies like the National Security Council, the FBI, and elite military units such as Delta Force and SEAL Team Six, paints a picture of intense collaboration and calculated strategic responses.

Adventures in Special Operations: From Central America to the Philippines

Ric Prado’s early career casts him as a key figure in the Special Operations Group/Special Activities Division (SOG/SAD) at the CIA. The tales from this era are nothing short of captivating, with Prado’s first-person accounts offering a glimpse into the life of a true operative. A highlight is his distinction as the first CIA officer to embed within the anti-Sandinista “Contra” camps in Central America, a feat that required not only bravery but also an unparalleled commitment to gathering intelligence from the heart of conflict.

The arc of Prado’s journey also extends to far-flung lands like Peru and the Philippines, where his involvement in counter-terrorism and insurgency operations further solidified his reputation as a dedicated and fearless professional. His recollections of these experiences serve as a testament to the lengths he went to protect national security and uphold American interests.

As our conversation with Ric Prado unveils, his legacy is one of service, dedication, and, above all, intrigue. With a career that has spanned pivotal moments in history and put him on the frontlines of some of the most critical operations, Prado’s insights are invaluable to understanding the complex world of intelligence and security.

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