John Lechner is a journalist, independent researcher, and consultant specializing in Africa. His work has been featured in The New York Times, The Atlantic, The Washington Post, and the BBC, among others. His latest book, DEATH IS OUR BUSINESS, is the definitive account of the Wagner Group—the mercenary force that changed modern warfare, from Ukraine to Syria to Africa.

John L. Plaster is a legendary MACV-SOG operator who served three tours of duty in Vietnam leading high-risk reconnaissance missions deep behind enemy lines in Laos and Cambodia, striking supply lines along the Ho Chi Minh Trail. Wounded in action and decorated for valor four times, he later flew over 350 aerial combat missions as a Forward Air Controller.

John L. Plaster is a legendary MACV-SOG operator who served three tours of duty in Vietnam leading high-risk reconnaissance missions deep behind enemy lines in Laos and Cambodia, striking supply lines along the Ho Chi Minh Trail. Wounded in action and decorated for valor four times, he later flew over 350 aerial combat missions as a Forward Air Controller.

Ric Prado is a paramilitary, counter-terrorism, and clandestine operations specialist with a 24-year career in the CIA’s Directorate of Operations.

Lieutenant Colonel Scott Mann is a former U.S. Army Special Forces soldier with multiple tours in Afghanistan.

Mike Howard is a former CIA clandestine services operative with over two decades of experience in counterterrorism, operating extensively in Asia and Africa.