Benghazi Marine hero Mark Geist played a pivotal role in the evacuation of a church group trapped in Bethlehem following a series of terror attacks by Hamas.
The group, consisting of 84 individuals from the Diocese of West Fargo, North Dakota, found themselves stranded amidst escalating violence during their pilgrimage to Israel.
The severity of the conflict was initially unknown to the group, but as news of the deadly attacks began to filter through, fear and uncertainty grew among the worshippers.
Their initial plan to return via Tel Aviv was thwarted as rockets launched between Hamas and Israel caused widespread destruction and displacement.
Benghazi Marine hero Mark Geist helped evacuate church group from Bethlehem who were trapped after Hamas terror erupted by using intel from contacts in the region as tourists slam the State Department https://t.co/gnjtRs7DjR pic.twitter.com/HcIdQjvVgg
— Ultra Pepe Lives Matter 🐸 (@pepemqtter1) October 19, 2023
In this dire situation, the brother of one of the group members reached out to Mark Geist, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran known for his heroic actions during the 13-hour assault in Benghazi, Libya, in September 2012.
Geist, leveraging his contacts in the region, quickly gathered crucial intelligence to aid the group’s safe return.
Geist’s suggestion to travel to the border with Jordan proved invaluable. Despite the lack of response from the State Department and the cancellation of their flight out of Tel Aviv, the group managed to reach Jordan without incident.
By Thursday, the American worshippers were on a flight back to the U.S., their safety ensured thanks to Geist’s swift action and strategic thinking.
Meanwhile, North Dakota Senator Kevin Cramer worked tirelessly behind the scenes, liaising with the State Department and maintaining contact with people on the ground in Bethlehem.
He acknowledged the overwhelming responsibility of the department, which was suddenly tasked with ensuring the safety of thousands of Americans in the country.
That's it, we're going to get our people from Israel.
Richard, this is Mark "Oz" Geist, one of the "secret soldiers" who helped save over 25 Americans in Benghazi.
Since then, my mission hasn't changed.
When Afghanistan fell, my team at the Shadow Warriors Project helped to… pic.twitter.com/0NiOkwm5u7
— 🇺🇸 Richard M Masliah 🇨🇦 BSc, LLL. LLB. 🇮🇱 (@Richard4m) October 14, 2023
Cramer’s efforts were complemented by fellow North Dakota Senator John Hoeven, who was in ‘lockstep’ with him to ensure the group’s safe return. Hoeven’s office notified the State Department about the group, connecting them directly with the ambassador’s office and assisting them with booking flights.
The successful evacuation of the church group from Bethlehem is a testament to the bravery and resourcefulness of individuals like Mark Geist, who stepped up in a time of crisis.
It also underscores the importance of effective communication and coordination between government officials and citizens in times of conflict.
Amidst the chaos and uncertainty of the Hamas terror attacks, the actions of these American heroes ensured the safety of their fellow citizens. Their efforts serve as a shining example of courage, resilience, and the indomitable American spirit.
