Aleksander Skarlatos, one of the three American citizens who managed to stop an armed gunman from attacking an Amsterdam train bound for Paris last week, will receive one of the highest honors in the U.S. Army.
Senior U.S. Army leaders announced Tuesday that they will award the Soldier's Medal to Skarlatos, who is also a member of the Oregon National Guard, because he was able to display acts of heroism without actually being involved in a definite conflict with the enemy, the Associated Press reported.
Skarlatos was on his way to Paris from Amsterdam when the heavily-armed attacker came out of the train's bathroom while carrying an AK-47 with another Lugar pistol. After hearing gunshots, Skarlatos encouraged other passengers to take charge of the situation, then pounced on the attacker. He then proceeded to take his weapons away from the attacker and knock him out using his own rifle.
"Spc. Skarlatos' actions that day epitomize what we mean by a soldier of character -- one who lives by a personal code where dedication to duty and taking care of others is sacred," Army Secretary John McHugh said. "His actions, and those of his fellow serviceman and passengers exemplify the highest standards of selfless service. We are proud to count him in our ranks."
"On behalf of our Army, I commend Specialist Aleksander Skarlatos for his heroic actions Friday that saved hundreds of lives by awarding him the Soldier's Medal," said Gen. Mark A. Milley, Chief of Staff of the Army, according to The Inquisitr. "His extraordinarily heroic effort, at the risk to his own life, truly exemplifies our Army Values. I am proud to call you a hero and a soldier."
#RedNationRising Honors Spencer Stone, Alek Skarlatos & Anthony Sadler for Stopping Terror Attack on French Train. pic.twitter.com/p2UGqslBAf
— RedNationRising (@RedNationRising) August 23, 2015
Skarlatos is now in Germany with friend and fellow serviceman U.S. Air Force Airman Spencer Stone, who is receiving proper care after suffering injuries during the attack. Anthony Sadler, their other friend who also helped in subduing the attacker, went back to the U.S. on Tuesday with his parents.
Sacramento Mayor Kevin Johnson said that the three men will receive a heroes' welcome and parade in their hometown, Reuters reported.
