Military & Veterans News

Vet News: Statement by Secretary of Defense Ash Carter on the French Train Incident

August 22, 2015

U.S. Department of Defense

Secretary of Defense Ash Carter released the following statement on the actions of U.S. military personnel aboard a passenger train in France Friday. Airman First Class Spencer Stone of Lajes Air Base, Azores, and Specialist Alek Skarlatos, an Oregon National Guardsman, along with a civilian friend subdued an armed gunman aboard a train bound for Paris.

"On behalf of all the men and women of the Department of Defense, I want to thank the brave individuals, including two members of the U.S. military, who stepped forward to prevent an even greater tragedy from taking place aboard that train. My thoughts and prayers today are with those injured in the attack, including Airman First Class Spencer Stone whose selfless actions saved lives. I wish him a speedy recovery. Airman Stone and Specialist Alex Skarlatos are two reasons why - on duty and off - ours is the finest fighting force the world has ever known."

Airman First Class Stone is currently being treated in a French medical facility with non-life threatening injuries.

Blog Tags:

Military & Veterans News

From Our Member Community

couple walking in the beach

Discounts & Benefits How to Use the WeSalute Travel Portal: Your Guide to Maximizing Travel Savings At WeSalute, we believe that A Real Thank YouⓇ means providing more than just a sentiment. We are constantly searching for ways to elevate the lifestyle of our members, delivering tangible, high-quality benefits and savings that honor your service and sacrifice. That is why we are thrilled to introduce WeSalute Travel, a powerful new benefit designed specifically to reward your dedication with $3,000 in annual Travel Cash. Think of us as your dedicated travel advocate, here to help you navigate our new platform so you can see the world for less.

U.S. flag

Military & Veterans News A Win for Veterans: 176 VA Health Programs Ace National Quality Tests The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced on April 22nd that every one of its programs evaluated by the Joint Commission in 2025 has received full accreditation. The Joint Commission, recognized as the nation’s leading independent health care accrediting body, reviewed 176 separate VA programs across hospitals, behavioral health centers, home care facilities, and ambulatory clinics.

Scott Higgins

Discounts & Benefits Real Savings. No Hassle: How WeSalute Can Boost Your Budget Annually As an active-duty service member, veteran, or military family will attest, every dollar saved matters. At WeSalute, we are dedicated to ensuring you get the most out of the benefits you've earned. Our mission is to provide "A Real Thank You" that translates into tangible financial savings in your everyday life. You might be surprised just how much those savings can add up over a year.

Scott Higgins

Discounts & Benefits Scott’s View: Standing Strong During Military Appreciation Month As we enter May, the significance of National Military Appreciation Month feels especially profound. From Loyalty Day to today’s 81st anniversary of V-E Day and Armed Forces Day on May 16, this month is a powerful reminder of the heritage of freedom we enjoy thanks to those who serve. For us at WeSalute, May isn't just about a calendar of observances; it is about reinforcing the mission-driven infrastructure that supports our community every day of the year.

Join Our Community.

Yes, Get Me Started

Already a member? Login now.