Anthony Shaffer

Anthony Shaffer is a former U.S. Army Reserve lieutenant colonel and intelligence officer who gained prominence through his involvement in the Able Danger controversy and his censored memoir Operation Dark Heart. His military career included significant work in intelligence operations and data analysis, particularly during his time with the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA). In 2005, Shaffer became a central figure in the Able Danger controversy when he alleged that the DIA had identified Mohammed Atta and other 9/11 hijackers through a data-mining program prior to the September 11 attacks. These claims led to significant public attention and congressional inquiries, though they were met with skepticism from various government agencies. The publication of his memoir Operation Dark Heart in 2010 created further controversy when the Department of Defense required extensive redactions, claiming the book contained classified information. The initial uncensored copies were purchased and destroyed by the government, making them rare collectors' items. Following the revocation of his security clearance in 2006, Shaffer transitioned to civilian roles, including serving as president of the London Center for Policy Research. His work continues to focus on national security and intelligence matters, though now from outside the official intelligence community.

Readers consistently discuss the controversy surrounding Operation Dark Heart and its censorship rather than the book's content. Many view the heavy redactions as evidence of government overreach. Readers appreciated: - Direct firsthand accounts of intelligence operations - Clear explanations of data mining and analysis methods - Detailed descriptions of military procedures and culture - The compare/contrast between redacted and unredacted versions Common criticisms: - Choppy narrative flow due to redactions - Lack of proof for some major claims - Writing style sometimes comes across as self-promoting Ratings: - Goodreads: 3.8/5 from 312 ratings - Amazon: 4.1/5 from 246 reviews One reader noted: "The black marker sections tell a bigger story than the visible text." Another observed: "Important perspective on pre-9/11 intelligence, but needed better documentation." The unredacted first edition sells for $2000+ among collectors, while the censored version maintains steady sales among military history readers.

Operation Dark Heart (2010) A military memoir detailing intelligence operations in Afghanistan, which became controversial when the Defense Department demanded extensive redactions before publication and purchased the initial uncensored copies for destruction.

Bob Woodward writes detailed accounts of U.S. government operations and intelligence activities based on insider sources. His books cover similar territory to Shaffer's work, examining classified programs and decision-making processes within military and intelligence agencies.

James Bamford specializes in books about U.S. intelligence agencies, particularly the NSA and surveillance programs. He investigates similar themes of government secrecy and intelligence operations that Shaffer explores in his work.

Peter Lance investigates terrorism and intelligence failures through deep research into government documents and insider accounts. His books examine similar questions about pre-9/11 intelligence gathering and missed opportunities that Shaffer raised.

Michael Smith writes about military intelligence operations and clandestine missions based on his background as a British intelligence officer. His work covers comparable territory regarding classified operations and the intersection of intelligence work with military actions.

Ali Soufan provides firsthand accounts of counterterrorism operations from his experience as an FBI agent. His books examine similar themes of intelligence gathering and analysis in the context of national security that appear in Shaffer's writing.