The Art of Intelligence: Lessons from a Life in the CIA's Clandestine Service

I thought Henry Crumpton's book was fantastic. Like Gary Schroen's "FIRST IN--How the CIA Spearheaded the War on Terror After 9/11", this book too analyzes the situation 20 years ago when the homeland was attacked. both Schroen and Crumpton were there in the thick of it. Crumpton vividly describes the challenges and offers credit and appropriate criticism when needed, of himself and colleagues. But, what becomes very clear is that the war changed to an asymmetric battle that took rejiggering by all concerned. I was enthralled, excited and found the voice of the author to be clear, concise and full of common sense. Humor is welcome when you realize these patriots risked life and limb daily. It must be hard to go from t he Clandestine world to that of a public administration officer, but that is what happens to Mr. Crumpton and he deals with it al with aplomb. I say BRAVO.

Henry Crumpton, The Art of Intelligence (New York: Penguin Press, 2012). See especially “Afghanistan Strategy,” “Afghanistan Operations” and “Beyond Afghanistan,” pp. 169-273. The author, who was in charge of the CIA/Special Forces effort to overthrow the Taliban following the terror strikes of 9/11, gives an insider’s view of what worked and what did not. A fascinating companion piece to Jawbreaker. Captures the fighting spirit of those charged with avenging the deaths of 2,977 people when the Twin Towers were destroyed. Brutally honest about failures of intelligence and operations before, during and after the attack. Sees a new era when CIA, FBI, DOD and State must all be re-tasked and redirected to face the demands of the post 9/11 world and worldwide jihadi activities. Page 154 describes a perfect opportunity to kill Osama bin Laden prior to 9/11 and the reasons for its failure. Sobering. Enjoyed the rapidity and cynicism with which the Obama administration adopted the drone program and greatly expanded it.

One word- perfect

Well written, deeply informative and told by an American hero. I had to pace myself reading so I could stretch it out. One of the best books I’ve read on these topics.

As a former mid-level consumer of intelligence for a government agency I was pleasantly surprised and impressed with this expertly written book. An avid reader of espionage, intelligence, tradecraft, and the like, I thought at first there was too much redaction and not enough specifics. However, after reading through the first 2 chapters I was hooked. When I reached the end of the book I wished that I had more to read of Hank’s experiences, insights and questions. I would place this in the top 3 books that I’ve read on the subject. Outstanding.

This book gives you an insiders view of how the CIA works. Starting off the author explains to the reader the ultimate value of intelligence. Without intelligence you can not win a war and if you are not winning wars then you cannot defend your country. The founding fathers knew the value of great intelligence and espionage.Today’s policy makers have forgotten the value of good intelligence and espionage. The public does not understand the value,. Oft times the CIA has their budget cut or they are overly scrutinized for what they do. Their are constraints as to what they can do all based on the current politics .Hank entered the service after three tries and he had no military experience. He had lots of travel experience and had gotten into several fights while abroad. He was lucky to get in.After training on th farm he was stationed in Africa. Most agents there are very independently and kind of knowledgeable eccentric. Working in Africa he learns what it means to be a case manager and run contacts. He discusses how he vets and grooms people to get info about their government. He talks about the difference between handling a case and be a liaison with different government where in the share information.Hanks biggest claim to fame was taking down Al Quaida. After Al Quaida bombed two US Embassies. Hank to work with the FBI on investigating Al Quaida and who bombed the Embassy. Hank would end up working for the FBI and he explains the different operating procedure between the two organizations. Later in his career he would lead the CIA against Al Quaida. Ultimately it was another unit the brought down Bin Laden.The book will open your eyes to the flawed view of our politicians who underestimate the threat that Al Quaida posed. The CIA understood it and had they been listened to it might have been avoided. The Department of Defence is locked in a rigid mentality of state to state war. Now things are much different. If you want the truth about espionage this book is it.

Das Buch gibt einen sehr guten Überblick darüber, was das Ziel und die Aufgaben des CIA sind. Crumpton berichtet offen und durchaus kritisch über seine Dienstzeit, eine so reflektierte Darstellung ist überraschend positiv. Außerdem setzt er sich objektiv mit der amerikanischen Außenpolitik auseinander, sehr interessant die Einschätzung zu der Vorgeschichte von 9/11 und die ergriffenen Maßnahmen.

Arrivato nei tempi previsti, Interessante, che altro dire? Arrivato nei tempi previsti, Interessante, che altro dire? Arrivato nei tempi previsti, Interessante, che altro dire?

'Hank' pens an engrossing and timely discussion around the past, more recent and future place for the trade craft of intelligence in the world community. Hank's overview of the intelligence space, its culture and his unique perspective on the Afghan conflict had me hanging on every word. Given the structure of the book, it was easy to finish a chapter and then easily make the connections to the next. I particularly enjoyed the evolution of Hank's career and what the future still holds for him and his craft. This is a must read, and delightfully is not chock full of conspiracy theories or political rhetoric. Thanks for putting pen to paper on this Hank.

I could'nt put this book down. If you are interested in Espionage you have to read this book.A great inside look.

Interesting read with a pretty heavy right wing slant.