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  • Published: 15 August 2006
  • ISBN: 9780891418757
  • Imprint: Ballantine
  • Format: Paperback
  • Pages: 416
  • RRP: $37.99

First In

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



While America held its breath in the days immediately following 9/11, a small but determined group of CIA agents covertly began to change history. This is the riveting first-person account of the treacherous top-secret mission inside Afghanistan to set the stage for the defeat of the Taliban and launch the war on terror.

As thrilling as any novel, First In is a uniquely intimate look at a mission that began the U.S. retaliation against terrorism–and reclaimed the country of Afghanistan for its people.

  • Published: 15 August 2006
  • ISBN: 9780891418757
  • Imprint: Ballantine
  • Format: Paperback
  • Pages: 416
  • RRP: $37.99

About the author

Gary Schroen

GARY C. SCHROEN has served in the CIA for thirty-five years, much of his career focusing on the Middle East, including Iran, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Afghanistan. His honors include the Intelligence Cross, the highest award given by the CIA. He lives in Reno, Nevada, with his wife, Betsy.

Praise for First In

"A real life, ground-truth account of CIA human intelligence operations that were incredibly successful. The country owes Gary and his comrades, who at first almost single-handedly, won the first phase of the war in Afghanistan. Told with the nitty-gritty detail by the leader who was there---real and compelling."
--Bob Woodward