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

Women's History Month 2026

Military & Veterans Life Cover Story: Women's History Month 2026 & The Expanding Legacy of Military Women The face of the American veteran is evolving rapidly, and at the forefront of this shift are the women who have stepped up to serve. This March, in honor of Women's History Month, WeSalute reflects on the expanding legacy of female service members and their indispensable contributions to our nation.

Scott Higgins

Discounts & Benefits Scott’s View: Expanding Your Horizons: Welcoming Delta Vacations and Montway Auto Transport As we navigate a more mobile, post-COVID world, the ability to travel and relocate with ease has never been more important. At WeSalute, we are committed to diversifying our exclusive travel and lifestyle offerings to meet these evolving needs. Today, we are thrilled to welcome two industry leaders to our community of partners: Delta Air Lines, through an exclusive new offer with Delta Vacations, and Montway Auto Transport.

Exclusive Savings for Nurses with WeSalute

Discounts & Benefits Top Benefits and Exclusive Savings for Nurses with WeSalute We are thrilled to officially welcome nurses to the WeSalute community! We recognize the incredible dedication and sacrifice you bring to your work every day, and we are honored to extend our exclusive benefits and advocacy to the healthcare heroes who serve us all.

moving

Discounts & Benefits Get The Best Rate: The Ultimate Home & Auto Insurance Experience | WeSalute Spotlight At WeSalute, we believe that A Real Thank YouⓇ should be more than a sentiment — it should be a service that simplifies your life. We are constantly searching for benefits that don't just provide a discount, but set a standard of excellence in how they serve you. We are excited to announce a major benefit enhancement designed to supercharge your ability to protect what matters most: your home and your vehicle.

Join Our Community.

Yes, Get Me Started

Already a member? Login now.