Kris Paronto
Military Consultant and Founder of 14th Hour Foundation
Kris, or “Tanto” is a former Army Ranger from the 2nd Battalion 75th Ranger Regiment and private security contractor. He also worked with the U.S. government’s Global Response Staff, conducting low profile security in high threat environments throughout the world. Kris was part of the CIA annex security team that responded to the terrorist attack on the U.S. Special Mission in Benghazi, Libya on September 11, 2012, helping to save over 20 lives while fighting off terrorists for over 13 hours. His story is told in the book 13 Hours, and in the major motion picture of the same name. Today, he is a security and military consultant and founder of the 14th Hour Foundation, a nonprofit created to help military veterans, first responders, government security contractors, their families and other foundations with grants to assist in everything from mortgage payments, everyday bills and tuition.
Bringing valor, compassion, and authenticity to the stage, Kris shares the unforgettable story of the brave individuals who fought back during the Battle of Benghazi and risked their lives for the greater good of the world, along with key takeaways on leadership and teamwork that can be applied in any environment.