Mark Harmon and Leon Carroll, Jr. Bring You Ghosts of Panama
Mark Harmon and Leon Carroll, Jr. are back with their eagerly awaited new book, Ghosts of Panama. Following the triumph of their earlier work, Ghosts of Honolulu, this latest installment delves into the dangerous world of Naval Investigative Service agents during the chaotic events in Panama in the late 1980s.
Exploring a Chaotic Time
As the late 1980s unfold, Panama teeters on the edge of chaos. Concerns surrounding General Manuel Noriega's growing power and a crumbling partnership with the United States create unease among military personnel and their families. Newly elected President George H.W. Bush condemns Noriega as both a drug trafficker and a manipulator of elections. This backdrop serves as the setting for the trials faced by courageous agents during these perilous times.
A Glimpse into the Agents' Lives
One of these agents, Special Agent Rick Yell, has been stationed in Panama since 1986, where he lives with his wife and infant child. Like many of his colleagues, Yell doesn't hold a military rank; instead, he specializes in complex criminal investigations. By chance, he encounters an intelligence source that offers him a rare perspective on Noriega's regime.
This informant, known affectionately as “The Old Man,” informs Yell about the presence of Cuban military forces and warns him about officers in the Panamanian Defense Forces who have anti-American views. Thanks to this connection, Yell gathers vital information on Noriega's activities, sparking conversations about the dictator's potential capture.
The Fallout of a Single Choice
The situation escalates on December 16, 1989, when a U.S. Marine is tragically killed at a checkpoint in Panama City. This shocking event triggers a series of investigations led by Yell and his loyal agents. Their findings lead to significant decisions made in Washington D.C., culminating in President Bush ordering a military invasion that puts the lives of Yell's family and team at risk.
The Unveiling of a Secret Operation
With comprehensive research and compelling interviews with NIS veterans, Ghosts of Panama reveals the covert operations undertaken by intelligence professionals under severe pressure during remarkable events. The book sheds light on the realities of their work, the hardships they face, and the emotional toll these experiences take, illuminating often-overlooked aspects of history.
Stay Tuned for the Release
Ghosts of Panama is set to be released on November 19, 2024, and will be available in various formats: hardcover, ebook, and audiobook. Readers can anticipate a gripping narrative packed with intrigue and suspense. Be sure to mark your calendars for this compelling tale of bravery and resilience.
About the Authors
Mark Harmon, famously known for his role as Leroy Jethro Gibbs on the beloved show NCIS, has made a smooth transition from acting to producing, continuing to share impactful stories across different media. His connection to captivating narratives surrounding military and intelligence work has strongly shaped his creative projects.
Leon Carroll, Jr. offers a wealth of expertise, having served as a technical advisor on NCIS for twenty-one seasons and authored the bestseller Ghosts of Honolulu. His background as a former commissioned officer in the Marine Corps and as a Special Agent with the Naval Criminal Investigative Service adds unparalleled authenticity to the stories he collaborates on.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main focus of Ghosts of Panama?
Ghosts of Panama examines the challenges encountered by Naval Investigative Service agents during the tumultuous late 1980s in Panama, particularly exploring their undercover operations.
When will Ghosts of Panama be available?
The book is scheduled for release on November 19, 2024, in hardcover, ebook, and audiobook formats.
Who are the authors of this new book?
Mark Harmon and Leon Carroll, Jr. are the authors, both recognized for their contributions to literature and their ties to military and investigation-related narratives.
What does the title, Ghosts of Panama, signify?
The title reflects the haunting legacy of past events and the secretive operations carried out by agents in Panama during a pivotal time in history.
How does this book relate to their previous work?
Ghosts of Panama builds on their first collaboration, Ghosts of Honolulu, exploring themes of espionage and military insight, but set within a different historical backdrop.
