For Immediate Release: August 1, 2022
Statement by CIA Director William J. Burns on the passing of Gary Schroen
Today, CIA mourns the passing of Gary Schroen, a legend and inspiration to every Agency officer. In Afghanistan more than two decades ago and in every other role he served at CIA, Gary embodied the very best of our organization. We will never forget his unwavering dedication, loyalty, and perseverance to protect and defend our country.
In the aftermath of the September 11, 2001 attacks, Gary delayed his retirement to lead an exceptional team of CIA officers–the first Americans into Afghanistan–on a mission against al-Qa’ida and its Taliban supporters. That mission, Operation JAWBREAKER, will forever stand as a tribute to Gary’s courage and leadership. We are fortunate to have the Mi-17 helicopter that Gary and his team used to carry out this daring mission dedicated on CIA’s grounds, where it will serve for generations to come as a reminder of Gary’s extraordinary place in CIA history.
Gary will be greatly missed, but never forgotten.
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