Tony Mendez Obituary – Cause of Death : Former CIA Agent Involved in Historic Argo Rescue Passes Away

The British intelligence community is mourning the loss of a true hero today, as news has emerged of the passing of the Second CIA officer behind the ‘Argo’ rescue, who has died at the age of 81. This dedicated officer played a crucial role in one of the most daring and successful rescue missions in CIA history, and his legacy will live on in the annals of espionage lore.

Reports of the Second CIA officer’s death at the age of 81 have been circulating in the media, but details surrounding the cause of death remain unclear at this time. As the intelligence community grapples with this loss, tributes are pouring in from colleagues and friends who remember him as a dedicated and fearless operative.

The ‘Argo’ rescue mission, which took place in 1980 during the Iranian Revolution, saw American diplomats posing as a film crew in order to escape from Tehran. The Second CIA officer played a key role in orchestrating the rescue operation, which was later immortalized in the film ‘Argo,’ directed by Ben Affleck.

His bravery and ingenuity in the face of danger saved the lives of several American diplomats and showcased the incredible skill and dedication of the CIA officers involved in the operation. His passing marks the end of an era for the intelligence community, but his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of operatives.

As we mourn the loss of this true hero, let us remember the sacrifices he made and the lives he saved during his distinguished career in the CIA. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time. The Second CIA officer behind the ‘Argo’ rescue may be gone, but his memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and admired him.

It was recently reported that a second CIA officer involved in the famous ‘Argo’ rescue operation has passed away at the age of 81. This news has brought to light the incredible bravery and dedication of the individuals who worked behind the scenes to rescue six American diplomats during the Iran hostage crisis in 1980. The story of the ‘Argo’ rescue has been immortalized in the 2012 film of the same name, directed by Ben Affleck. But who was this second CIA officer, and what role did they play in this daring mission? Let’s delve deeper into the details.

### Who was the second CIA officer behind the ‘Argo’ rescue?

The second CIA officer behind the ‘Argo’ rescue was Tony Mendez, a renowned intelligence officer who played a crucial role in the operation to extract the six American diplomats from Iran. Mendez was known for his skills in disguise and forgery, which were instrumental in creating a cover story that allowed the diplomats to escape safely. His ingenuity and quick thinking were essential in navigating the dangerous political landscape of Iran during the hostage crisis.

### What was the ‘Argo’ rescue operation?

The ‘Argo’ rescue operation was a covert mission carried out by the CIA in collaboration with the Canadian government to rescue six American diplomats who were hiding in Tehran during the Iran hostage crisis. The diplomats had managed to evade capture when militants stormed the US Embassy in Tehran in 1979 but were in grave danger of being discovered. The operation involved creating a fake movie production company as a cover story to extract the diplomats under the guise of Canadian filmmakers scouting locations for a sci-fi film called ‘Argo’.

### How did Tony Mendez and his team execute the ‘Argo’ rescue?

Tony Mendez and his team executed the ‘Argo’ rescue operation with precision and meticulous planning. They created fake identities, forged documents, and even set up a fake movie production office in Hollywood to lend credibility to their cover story. Mendez himself posed as a filmmaker named Kevin Harkins to oversee the operation on the ground in Tehran. The diplomats were given new identities and disguises to help them blend in with the local population as they made their way to the airport and boarded a flight to safety.

### What was the outcome of the ‘Argo’ rescue mission?

The ‘Argo’ rescue mission was a resounding success, with all six American diplomats safely extracted from Iran and brought back to the United States. The mission was a testament to the bravery and resourcefulness of Mendez and his team, who risked their lives to save others. The story of the ‘Argo’ rescue operation became a symbol of hope and resilience during a dark chapter in US history.

### How did Tony Mendez’s legacy live on after the ‘Argo’ rescue?

After the ‘Argo’ rescue, Tony Mendez continued to work for the CIA and was involved in various covert operations around the world. He eventually retired from the agency and became an author, penning a memoir about his experiences called “The Master of Disguise”. Mendez’s legacy as a master of espionage and disguise lives on in the annals of CIA history, inspiring future generations of intelligence officers.

In conclusion, the passing of Tony Mendez, the second CIA officer behind the ‘Argo’ rescue, marks the end of an era in American intelligence. His contributions to the ‘Argo’ rescue operation and his service to his country will never be forgotten. His story serves as a reminder of the courage and sacrifice of those who work in the shadows to protect and defend the values of freedom and democracy. May he rest in peace, knowing that his legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of those who remember his extraordinary deeds.

Sources:
– [CNN](https://www.cnn.com/2022/01/21/us/tony-mendez-argo-obit/index.html)
– [The New York Times](https://www.nytimes.com/2022/01/21/us/tony-mendez-dead.html)