Thread by @CIA

This weekend we lost one of our most legendary Agency officers, Antonio “Tony” Mendez, the inspiration behind the Hollywood blockbuster #Argo.

In honor of his legacy, we are sharing this painting of Tony & the Argo mission from CIA’s Fine Art Collection.

bit.ly/2CHzVz5

The painting titled, “#ARGO: The Rescue of the Canadian Six” was painted by CIA DS&T officer, Deborah Dismuke.

Deborah was both the first female & the first Agency officer to have artwork displayed in CIA’s Intelligence Art Gallery.

Tony began his CIA career in 1965 & spent 25 years as a document counterfeiter & disguise maker.

During the Cold War, he painstakingly devised critical deception operations in places like SE Asia & the former Soviet Union.

In 1980, Tony masterminded the daring rescue of six American diplomats from Iran, an operation made famous by the film #Argo.
(In the film, Tony was portrayed by @BenAffleck).

You can read about the mission in Tony’s own words: 1.usa.gov/1z4Et9C

Tony was awarded an Intelligence Star for his work on the #Argo operation & later received a Trailblazer Award for his profound contributions to CIA’s mission throughout his career.

Tony will be remembered for his patriotism, ingenuity, & lifelong commitment to the Agency.

He embodied the pioneering spirit, boldness, & derring-do that have defined CIA since our founding, & we’re truly grateful for his exemplary service to our country.