Spc. Alek Skarlatos, an infantryman with the Oregon Army National Guard, was awarded the Soldier’s Medal last week at the Pentagon for his actions last month in subduing a gunman on a European train traveling from Amsterdam to Paris.
His childhood friend, Airman 1st Class Spencer Stone, a member of the active-component Air Force, was awarded the Airman’s Medal. Anthony Sadler, another childhood friend and a student at Sacramento State University in California, was also honored with the Secretary of Defense Medal.
The medals are the highest commendations for noncombat bravery the Pentagon can award.
The three stopped a gunman who had opened fire with an AK-47 rifle on the crowded train. They were joined in their response by a British businessman.
Defense Secretary Ash Carter presented the medals and called the event “an amazing story, right out of a movie.”
Stone also received a Purple Heart for injuries he received from a knife wielded by the gunman. Carter said it was appropriate because the incident was considered an act of terrorism.
The three were presented with the Legion of Honor, France’s highest honor, days after the incident Aug. 21.