The Choices is a song inspired by the intertwined lives of two men whose legacies reflect the extremes of human decisions: Ahmed Al Mansi, a celebrated hero, and Hisham Ashmawi, a condemned traitor. Both started their journeys as officers in the same elite unit, yet their choices carved paths that led them to vastly different fates. This song serves as a reflection on their lives and the enduring lessons they leave behind—lessons about loyalty, betrayal, and the profound impact of the choices we make.
A Shared Beginning in the Thunderbolt Forces
Ahmed Al Mansi and Hisham Ashmawi were not just soldiers; they were brothers-in-arms. Both served in Egypt’s highly respected Special Forces, known as the Thunderbolt Forces, where discipline, unity, and sacrifice were the cornerstones of their training. The Thunderbolt Forces are among Egypt’s most elite military units, tasked with the most challenging missions in defense of the nation.
The two men shared a bond formed through years of rigorous training and shared purpose. They endured the same hardships, faced the same dangers, and swore the same oath to protect their homeland. They were equals, admired by their peers and trusted by their superiors. But beneath this shared surface, their inner convictions were on a collision course that would ultimately divide them.
Ahmed Al Mansi: The Hero Egypt Needed
Ahmed Al Mansi epitomized what it means to be a patriot and a leader. Known for his unwavering dedication, humility, and courage, Mansi quickly rose through the ranks to command the 103rd Thunderbolt Battalion. His leadership style was defined by his deep care for his soldiers and his readiness to face danger alongside them.
On July 7, 2017, Mansi’s name became immortalized during the Battle of Al-Burth, a defining moment in Egypt’s fight against terrorism. In the scorching desert of North Sinai, his battalion was stationed at a remote checkpoint near Al-Burth. That day, they were ambushed by a well-armed terrorist force. Outnumbered and outgunned, Mansi and his men fought valiantly, holding their ground against overwhelming odds.
Mansi led from the front, refusing to abandon his position despite the heavy losses. He called for reinforcements and continued fighting until his final breath, determined to protect his land and his men. Though the battle ended in tragedy, with Mansi and many of his soldiers falling, his sacrifice became a rallying cry for a nation. His name is now synonymous with bravery, selflessness, and unwavering commitment to duty.
Hisham Ashmawi: A Path of Betrayal
Hisham Ashmawi’s story is the shadow to Mansi’s light. Once a respected officer in the Thunderbolt Forces, Ashmawi followed a different path—a path of betrayal. Disillusioned by his grievances and lured by extremist ideologies, Ashmawi turned his back on his brothers and his country. He defected from the military in 2012, plunging into the world of terrorism.
Ashmawi did not just join any terrorist group; he became one of the masterminds behind some of the deadliest attacks in Egypt. Known for his cunning and ruthlessness, he led operations that targeted civilians, soldiers, and even his former comrades. One of the most infamous incidents linked to Ashmawi was the 2014 Farafra Checkpoint Attack, in which dozens of soldiers were ambushed and killed in cold blood. This attack underscored the depth of his betrayal, as he orchestrated the deaths of men who had once been his brothers.
Over the years, Ashmawi rose to infamy, earning the title of “The Prince” among his followers. But this title was hollow—a facade masking the cowardice and dishonor that defined his actions. While Mansi fought for a noble cause, Ashmawi’s choices were driven by hatred, power, and self-interest.
The Fall of Ashmawi
After years of evading justice, Ashmawi was captured in Libya in 2018 by the Libyan National Army. His capture marked the beginning of his reckoning. He was extradited to Egypt, where he stood trial for numerous crimes, including acts of terrorism and murder. On March 4, 2020, Ashmawi was executed, bringing an end to a life that had caused untold suffering.
His death, however, did not bring honor. Unlike Mansi, who is remembered with reverence, Ashmawi’s name is a mark of shame—a warning of what happens when one betrays their principles and their people. His legacy is one of dishonor, and his name serves as a reminder of the devastating consequences of betrayal.
Why Their Stories Matter
The stories of Ahmed Al Mansi and Hisham Ashmawi are not just tales of two men; they are reflections of the choices we all face. Both started in the same place, trained under the same values, and wore the same uniform. Yet, their decisions led them to opposite fates: one became a hero celebrated by his nation, while the other became a traitor condemned by history.
The Choices reminds us that the legacy we leave is shaped by the decisions we make. Mansi’s story is a testament to the power of honor, courage, and sacrifice. Ashmawi’s story, on the other hand, is a stark cautionary tale—a reminder of how betrayal and greed can lead to disgrace.
Educational Reflection
This song aims to educate and inspire. Through Mansi, we see the virtues of selflessness and bravery. Through Ashmawi, we learn about the dangers of radicalization and betrayal. Together, their stories teach us about the values we must uphold and the paths we must avoid.
Conclusion
The Choices is a tribute to those who fight for what is right and a condemnation of those who betray it. It is a call to reflect on our own decisions and the legacies we want to leave behind. As you listen to this song, remember Ahmed Al Mansi as a beacon of heroism, and let the story of Hisham Ashmawi be a lesson never to be forgotten.