First In: An Insider's Account of How the CIA Spearheaded the War on Terror in Afghanistan

First In provides a firsthand account of the CIA's initial response to 9/11 from senior officer Gary Schroen, who led the first American team into Afghanistan in September 2001. The narrative follows the JAWBREAKER team's mission to establish alliances with the Northern Alliance and set up operations against al-Qaeda and the Taliban. Schroen details the logistics, planning, and execution of covert operations in Afghanistan's harsh terrain during the critical early phase of America's response. His position as team leader offers direct insights into the decision-making processes between field operatives, CIA headquarters, and military commands during this period. The book documents the intersection of intelligence work, diplomatic relations, and military strategy through the lens of a veteran CIA officer. Schroen's writing maintains operational security while explaining complex regional dynamics and the challenges of coordinating among multiple agencies and local partners. The memoir stands as a study in rapid crisis response and the evolution of American intelligence operations in the post-9/11 era. It raises questions about the role of covert action in modern warfare and the balance between speed and deliberation in national security decisions.

Readers appreciate Schroen's firsthand account of the CIA's initial Afghanistan operations, noting his clear writing style and attention to operational details. Many cite the book's value in documenting the immediate post-9/11 period from an insider perspective. Positives: - Detailed descriptions of CIA field operations and planning - Clear explanations of complex regional politics - Author's 30+ years of experience adds credibility - Maps and photos enhance understanding Negatives: - Some sections get bogged down in administrative details - Readers note certain parts feel repetitive - Military jargon can be dense for casual readers - Several reviewers wanted more personal reflection Ratings: Goodreads: 3.9/5 (1,214 ratings) Amazon: 4.3/5 (186 reviews) Notable review quote: "Provides unique insight into the nuts and bolts of covert operations, though at times reads more like an after-action report than a narrative." - Amazon reviewer

Ghost Wars by Steve Coll A detailed chronicle of the CIA's involvement in Afghanistan from the Soviet invasion through September 10, 2001.

Jawbreaker by Gary Berntsen The CIA field commander's account of pursuing Osama bin Laden in the mountains of Tora Bora following 9/11.

88 Days to Kandahar by Robert Grenier A CIA station chief's narrative of orchestrating the initial U.S. response in Afghanistan after 9/11.

The Book of Honor by Ted Gup The stories of CIA officers who died in the line of duty, revealed through their missions and sacrifices.

Charlie Wilson's War by George Crile The account of a congressman's covert campaign to arm Afghan mujahideen against the Soviets through CIA operations.

🔸 Gary Schroen led the CIA's first team into Afghanistan after 9/11, code-named "Jawbreaker," despite being just days away from mandatory retirement when the attacks occurred 🔸 The team carried $3 million in cash stored in cardboard boxes to help fund the Northern Alliance's fight against the Taliban 🔸 Team members were explicitly instructed to kill Osama bin Laden and his top lieutenants if found, with orders to bring back their heads on ice 🔸 The book reveals that CIA field officers had been tracking bin Laden since 1996 and had multiple plans to capture or kill him before 9/11, but none were approved by senior leadership 🔸 Schroen had spent 32 years in the CIA's clandestine service and spoke fluent Dari (Afghan Persian), having previously served as the CIA's Chief of Station in Kabul during the 1980s