Richard P. Ryan

As the FBI Chief in the Middle East, Richard P. Ryan was responsible for all U.S. interests in the region, to include diplomats, businesses, and citizens. Two U.S. citizens, structural engineers, flew into Yemen on official business to assist with fortification of the U.S. Embassy in Sana'a, Yemen. Due to the deteriorating security of the country, the safety of the U.S. Mission and diplomats was of concern. These two civilians (non-government) flew into the Sana'a Airport from Africa on a U.S. construction contract. Upon deplaning, they were immediately kidnapped by Houthis terrorists, hoods placed over their heads, handcuffed, beaten, and thrown in a van. They were driven for hours into the mountains into a prison facility and thrown into 2 meter X 3 meter cell for 7 months. They were interrogated nightly, tortured, and psychologically abused.

This presentation throws back the curtain on how the U.S. government will stop at nothing to rescue Americans, and others, abducted abroad. Ryan discusses the painstaking diplomatic routes taken, the military and kinetic options discussed, and the fortunate (and unfortunate) outcomes of the rescue he orchestrated with our international partners. Ryan has been given the authority to present this impactful and emotional story by both the U.S. government and those families involved to discuss the incredible account of what determination, will, spiritual resolve, and international cooperation can result in.