What do you think about members of our military thwarting a terrorist attack and apprehending lone gunman in France?

MSgt Donald G. — Fri, 21 Aug 2015 16:12:25 -0400

Unarmed US service members take down Kalashnikov-wielding gunman onboard a high-speed train between Amsterdam and Paris.

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A group of unarmed US service members on board a high-speed train between Amsterdam and Paris foiled a terrorist attack after a gunman opened fire with an assault rifle, wounding three people.

The 26-year-old Moroccan national, who was known to security services, came out of the toilet brandishing the gun and opened fire. Fortunately, two US service members were nearby and overpowered him before he could massacre passengers.

The suspected terrorist had at least nine full magazines of ammunition holding almost 200 rounds. He was also carrying a knife.

Unfortunately, one of the service members was shot and is believed to be in a critical condition.

Speaking in Arras, French Interior Minister Bernard Cazeneuve praised the service members for their timely intervention.

He said: 'Thanks to them we have averted a drama.

'(The Americans were) particularly courageous and showed extreme bravery in extremely difficult circumstances.'

The man was arrested by police near the town of Arras in northern France.

Train company Thalys confirmed the incident happened. A spokesman said: 'The situation is under control, the travellers are safe. The train stopped and the emergency services are on site.'

No one at the SNCF French railways was immediately available to comment on the report.
A report on Twitter said that three US service members detained the gunman until emergency services arrived.

The incident happened at approximately 6pm local time.

French newspaper Le Monde is reporting that one Briton may be among the injured.

The motives behind the attack were not immediately known, although a spokesman for the interior minister said: 'It is too early to speak of a terrorist link'.

The incident happened approximately 115 miles north of Paris near the town of Arras

Investigators from France's special anti-terror police are leading the investigation, a spokeswoman for the Paris prosecutor's office said.

Two of the victims are in a critical condition. The suspect is a 26-year-old Moroccan, said Sliman Hamzi, an official with police union Alliance.

A spokesman for the French state rail company SNCF said that the assailant was armed with guns and knives but gave no further details about the attack.

An American and a Briton were reportedly among those injured.

The gunman was arrested after the train pulled into the station in the northern French town of Arras, the SNCF spokesman told AFP.

French Interior Minister Bernard Cazeneuve arrived at the scene in Arras in the wake of the incident, which occurred shortly after 6pm local time.

His spokesman Pierre-Henry Brandet confirmed to AFP that a man had opened fire on the train but said that at this stage "we do not know his motives".

The French actor Jean-Hugues Anglade, who appeared in the 1986 cult film 'Betty Blue' staring Beatrice Dalle, was lightly injured. It is understood he cut his hand while breaking the glass on the emergency alarm.

Anglade also played the hard-nosed cop Eddy Caplan in the gritty French crime drama Braquo.
Thalys said on its website that several trains had been delayed after the 'intervention of security forces at Arras station'.

'The train is at the station and emergency services are at the scene,' said Thalys, which is jointly owned by the national rail companies of Belgium, France and Germany.

France remains on edge after Islamic extremists attacked the satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo and a Jewish supermarket in Paris in January.

In June, a man beheaded his boss and tried to blow up a gas plant in southern France in what prosecutors say was an attack inspired by ISIS.

A Foreign Office spokeswoman said: 'We are aware of reports of shots being fired on a train in France.

'The French authorities have responded, we are in contact with them and are urgently seeking more information.'

Interior ministry spokesman Pierre Henry Brandet said: ‘A man opened fire on this Thalys train between Amsterdam and Paris, one person was very seriously injured. Talking about a terrorist motive would be premature at the moment.’

Francois Hollande, the French president, has said: ‘I express my solidarity with the wounded from the attack on the train from Amsterdam to Paris. Everything is being done to shed light on this tragedy.’

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3206426/U-S-Marines-armed-gunman-onboard-high-speed-train-Amsterdam-Paris.html

PICTURED: Hero US airman and friends who disarmed Moroccan terrorist

Spencer Stone, who is part of the U.S. Air Force, spotted the 26-year-old Moroccan acting suspiciously and took him down with the help of two friends before he could inflict more damage.

Response by SSgt Alex Robinson made Aug 21 at 2015 4:13 PM

SSgt Alex Robinson — Fri, 21 Aug 2015 16:13:06 -0400

Gotta love US Marines

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 21 at 2015 4:14 PM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 21 Aug 2015 16:14:25 -0400

Semper Fidelis!

Well done Marines!

Response by Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS made Aug 21 at 2015 4:14 PM

Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS — Fri, 21 Aug 2015 16:14:46 -0400

There's no such thing as unarmed US Marines. Just Marines without T/O weapons.

Response by CPT Chris Loomis made Aug 21 at 2015 4:15 PM

CPT Chris Loomis — Fri, 21 Aug 2015 16:15:48 -0400

Gol' damn it!! I love Marines!!! ORAAH!!!!

Response by COL Mikel J. Burroughs made Aug 21 at 2015 4:16 PM

COL Mikel J. Burroughs — Fri, 21 Aug 2015 16:16:49 -0400

MSgt Donald G. Way to go Marines! How about a big shout out to all our Marines on RP!

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Aug 21 at 2015 4:18 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Fri, 21 Aug 2015 16:18:44 -0400

With all the craziness he will be charged with assault. Good job!

Response by SFC Joe S. Davis Jr., MSM, DSL made Aug 21 at 2015 4:21 PM

SFC Joe S. Davis Jr., MSM, DSL — Fri, 21 Aug 2015 16:21:06 -0400

Nice to hear, good Samaritans are out there.

Response by SGT Jeremiah B. made Aug 21 at 2015 4:24 PM

SGT Jeremiah B. — Fri, 21 Aug 2015 16:24:30 -0400

I like the Canadian in the comments "Sometimes you just need an American or 3 around." hahah

Response by SGT Bryon Sergent made Aug 21 at 2015 4:24 PM

SGT Bryon Sergent — Fri, 21 Aug 2015 16:24:31 -0400

MSgt Donald Gresham- I had just posted this, ya beat me Master Sergeant. LOL

But have this to say, although I am not a Marine. Semper Fi!

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Aug 21 at 2015 4:29 PM

SFC Mark Merino — Fri, 21 Aug 2015 16:29:41 -0400

In this crazy world, the Marines will be charged with assault w/ enhanced hate crime. Regardless of the man being armed and shooting, the town will riot and burn down their town and start looting because they are oppressed.

Response by PO2 Corey Ferretti made Aug 21 at 2015 4:33 PM

PO2 Corey Ferretti — Fri, 21 Aug 2015 16:33:32 -0400

Way to go Marines. I see Navy/Marine Corps Medal ceremony in the near future

Response by SPC(P) Mark Newman made Aug 21 at 2015 4:54 PM

SPC(P) Mark Newman — Fri, 21 Aug 2015 16:54:09 -0400

Love our Marine Corps cousins!

I always wonder why, on a bus/train/plane people don't tackle a hijacker rather than let one man take over. Does it surprise me that it was U .S. Marines who took the initiative and the risk to bum rush this dickhead? Not at all.

All the details aren't in yet but I'm following the story closely (I'm a journalist and we have the Associated Press wire streaming into our newsroom) but whatever it turns out happened, I'm proud of ALL our Marines.

BTW, a Reuter's (I believe) article used "marines" for Marines, but maybe worse is that it claimed they were "unarmed." An unarmed Marine? Come on!

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 21 at 2015 4:58 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 21 Aug 2015 16:58:03 -0400

Semper Fi.

Response by CSM Michael J. Uhlig made Aug 21 at 2015 5:04 PM

CSM Michael J. Uhlig — Fri, 21 Aug 2015 17:04:52 -0400

Allowed him to board the train with an AK47 by the French Police but was stopped by American Marines! Luckily for those on the train these professionals were there to stop the terrorist attack.

My prayers go out to the Marine and his family for a fast and full recovery!

Response by Sgt Tom Cunnally made Aug 21 at 2015 5:20 PM

Sgt Tom Cunnally — Fri, 21 Aug 2015 17:20:36 -0400

One Airman was injured but not life threatening. But they did prevent a massacre aboard this French train...

Response by Capt Mark Strobl made Aug 21 at 2015 5:29 PM

Capt Mark Strobl — Fri, 21 Aug 2015 17:29:02 -0400

Only three Marines? Poor gunman was outnumbered by two. Bravo-Zulu, lads!

Response by SN Greg Wright made Aug 21 at 2015 5:55 PM

SN Greg Wright — Fri, 21 Aug 2015 17:55:13 -0400

Outfuckingstanding, Marines!

Response by CPO Jon Campbell made Aug 21 at 2015 5:57 PM

CPO Jon Campbell — Fri, 21 Aug 2015 17:57:26 -0400

I have a great book called 'Effective Phrases for Performance Appraisals' that I would gladly loan the French. The AP article read: "without their sangfroid we could have been confronted with a terrible drama." Are you kidding me?!

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 21 at 2015 6:04 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 21 Aug 2015 18:04:14 -0400

Extremely proud of our Marines!

Response by Maj Mike Sciales made Aug 21 at 2015 6:24 PM

Maj Mike Sciales — Fri, 21 Aug 2015 18:24:37 -0400

Uh rah! Training teamwork and confidence! Outstanding Marines!

Response by Capt Richard I P. made Aug 21 at 2015 6:46 PM

Capt Richard I P. — Fri, 21 Aug 2015 18:46:11 -0400

Semper Fidelis Airman, Soldier and civilian, well done! I wish them all speedy recovery and appropriate medals for their valor and wounds.

The Airman and National Guardsman in particular need real medals out of this.

Response by Capt Richard I P. made Aug 21 at 2015 6:47 PM

Capt Richard I P. — Fri, 21 Aug 2015 18:47:09 -0400

"You're Welcome France....Again...."
-The Marine Corps

Response by CW4 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 21 at 2015 7:17 PM

CW4 Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 21 Aug 2015 19:17:46 -0400

MSgt Donald G., we need more stories like this.

Response by SFC Joe S. Davis Jr., MSM, DSL made Aug 21 at 2015 7:52 PM

SFC Joe S. Davis Jr., MSM, DSL — Fri, 21 Aug 2015 19:52:15 -0400

A1C Charles D Wilson Sweet, great act of courage and bravery.

Response by SSgt Alex Robinson made Aug 21 at 2015 7:58 PM

SSgt Alex Robinson — Fri, 21 Aug 2015 19:58:44 -0400

Brave, courageous men. Semper Fi

Response by PVT Robert Gresham made Aug 21 at 2015 7:59 PM

PVT Robert Gresham — Fri, 21 Aug 2015 19:59:58 -0400

A courageous act by one of our troops overseas. Hopefully he will also be recognized for his actions by the French Government.

Response by LTC John Shaw made Aug 21 at 2015 8:04 PM

LTC John Shaw — Fri, 21 Aug 2015 20:04:52 -0400

A1C Charles D Wilson Awesome! Marine's taking action! Hoo-rah!

Response by LTC Jason Bartlett made Aug 21 at 2015 8:13 PM

LTC Jason Bartlett — Fri, 21 Aug 2015 20:13:04 -0400

Worthy of a valorous award ? I think so. Great job Marines.

Response by A1C Charles D Wilson made Aug 21 at 2015 8:14 PM

A1C Charles D Wilson — Fri, 21 Aug 2015 20:14:24 -0400

Sorry sir. I did not know you had started a subject on this. These guys are great.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 21 at 2015 9:02 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 21 Aug 2015 21:02:49 -0400

I hope the Marine who was "shot in the neck" makes a full recovery. Thankfully these men were able to stop this person from his desire to kill innocent civilians.

Response by SSG (ret) William Martin made Aug 21 at 2015 9:10 PM

SSG (ret) William Martin — Fri, 21 Aug 2015 21:10:07 -0400

That is what you call selfless service. Good job Marines!

Response by CMSgt James Nolan made Aug 21 at 2015 9:40 PM

CMSgt James Nolan — Fri, 21 Aug 2015 21:40:15 -0400

"The only thing necessary for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing" Sir Edmund Burke. Unfortunately the Marines also heard that speech! Semper Fi

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Aug 21 at 2015 9:42 PM

SFC Mark Merino — Fri, 21 Aug 2015 21:42:20 -0400

If it weren't for those USMC studs, France would have surrendered. (minus the Foreign Legion guys)

Response by SP5 Michael Rathbun made Aug 21 at 2015 9:46 PM

SP5 Michael Rathbun — Fri, 21 Aug 2015 21:46:24 -0400

Just Wow. Imagine: we could slightly augment the DoD budget with an international "Lease A US Marine" enterprise, targeted at public transportation everywhere.

Semper ever-lovin FI, Mac.

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Aug 21 at 2015 9:54 PM

SFC Mark Merino — Fri, 21 Aug 2015 21:54:36 -0400

Breaking News....French citizens demand off duty Marines wear warning labels written in 20 different languages.

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Aug 21 at 2015 9:55 PM

SFC Mark Merino — Fri, 21 Aug 2015 21:55:52 -0400

Thank God they weren't Soldiers or Airmen coming to the rescue. I didn't see a single reflective belt.

Response by SN Greg Wright made Aug 21 at 2015 10:12 PM

SN Greg Wright — Fri, 21 Aug 2015 22:12:47 -0400

MSgt Donald G. Now they're saying an Airman was involved.

http://www.armytimes.com/story/military/2015/08/21/us-airman-wounded-when-troops-reportedly-subdue-gunman/32148689/

U.S. airman wounded when troops reportedly subdue gunman

UPDATE:3 Americans praised for subduing gunman on European train

Response by MAJ Keira Brennan made Aug 21 at 2015 10:22 PM

MAJ Keira Brennan — Fri, 21 Aug 2015 22:22:59 -0400

WELL DONE!!!!

Response by CW3 Craig Linghor made Aug 21 at 2015 10:52 PM

CW3 Craig Linghor — Fri, 21 Aug 2015 22:52:24 -0400

Nothing more badass than a pissed off Marine except for two pissed off Marines.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 21 at 2015 10:55 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 21 Aug 2015 22:55:02 -0400

Semper Fi!

Response by SN Greg Wright made Aug 22 at 2015 12:50 AM

SN Greg Wright — Sat, 22 Aug 2015 00:50:11 -0400

New information (and not at ALL intended to take anything away from Marines. This is a developing story and new info is coming fast and furious):

"The three men -- a member of the Air Force, an inactive National Guard member and a civilian -- responded quickly, possibly preventing a deadly attack on the high-speed Thalys train."

http://www.cnn.com/2015/08/21/europe/france-train-shooting/index.html

2 U.S. service members overpower attacker on train in Belgium - CNN.com

A massacre on a train in Belgium was prevented Friday when two members of the U.S. miliary surprised an Islamist militant, a European official said.

Response by SN Greg Wright made Aug 22 at 2015 1:00 AM

SN Greg Wright — Sat, 22 Aug 2015 01:00:18 -0400

MSgt Donald G. Msgt, in the interest of updated info, and with NO intention to thread-crap on you, here is the latest info:

http://www.cnn.com/2015/08/21/europe/france-train-shooting/index.html

2 U.S. service members overpower attacker on train in Belgium - CNN.com

A massacre on a train in Belgium was prevented Friday when two members of the U.S. miliary surprised an Islamist militant, a European official said.

Response by Cpl Tou Lee Yang made Aug 22 at 2015 1:03 AM

Cpl Tou Lee Yang — Sat, 22 Aug 2015 01:03:31 -0400

I see Letter of Appreciation from a General in their future.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 22 at 2015 2:18 AM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 22 Aug 2015 02:18:15 -0400

Just saw this on the news. This is how we set an example to the world. Great job to these Service members.

Response by Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS made Aug 22 at 2015 6:47 AM

Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS — Sat, 22 Aug 2015 06:47:14 -0400

Update:

The "Marines" were:

Airman Spencer Stone from Carmichael, California (injured with boxcutter)

& National Guardsman Alek Skarlatos, from Roseburg, Oregon (childhood friend).

The initial reporting seems to have assumed guys anyone crazy enough to do this is a Marine. I think we need to send a letter to the Commandant and request Honorary Marine status for them, because frankly... they tackled a terrorist on a train, and as the saying go "finest traditions of the United States Naval Service."

Response by SPC William Hajnos made Aug 22 at 2015 7:17 AM

SPC William Hajnos — Sat, 22 Aug 2015 07:17:38 -0400

Word is coming out that it was an Oregon National Guard soldier and an airman along with a college student that saved the day either way good job to those guys no matter what walk of life they are in.

Response by SSgt David Swart made Aug 22 at 2015 10:53 AM

SSgt David Swart — Sat, 22 Aug 2015 10:53:43 -0400

Way to go young men! Hope you recover soon, Air Force airman Spencer Stone who was cut with a box cutter in the melee, The other two men were Anthony Sadler, a senior at Sacramento State University, was traveling with childhood friends Stone, of Carmichael, Calif., and Alek Skarlatos, a National Guardsman from Roseburg, Ore., when they heard a gunshot and breaking glass. Sadler told the AP that they saw a train employee sprint down the aisle followed by a gunman with an automatic rifle.

"As he was cocking it to shoot it, Alek just yells, 'Spencer, go!' And Spencer runs down the aisle," Sadler said. "Spencer makes first contact, he tackles the guy, Alek wrestles the gun away from him, and the gunman pulls out a boxcutter and slices Spencer a few times. And the three of us beat him until he was unconscious." I love that they beat him until he was unconscious!!

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 22 at 2015 11:20 AM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 22 Aug 2015 11:20:03 -0400

Wrong! One Air Force guy one National Guard and One Local National.. Get your facts straight or just say two U.S. Military members..

Response by SPC Tony Tarone made Aug 22 at 2015 11:29 AM

SPC Tony Tarone — Sat, 22 Aug 2015 11:29:28 -0400

I give my Marine friends a lot of inter-service crap, but when shit gets real those are the guys you want there. Damn fine job Marines. Hope the wounded Marine pulls through. He's in our thoughts.

Response by Col Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 22 at 2015 11:40 AM

Col Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 22 Aug 2015 11:40:57 -0400

Heroes!

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 22 at 2015 12:08 PM

Capt Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 22 Aug 2015 12:08:05 -0400

What counts most is no one was shot.

Response by SN Greg Wright made Aug 22 at 2015 12:24 PM

SN Greg Wright — Sat, 22 Aug 2015 12:24:58 -0400

A fellow Oregonian, to boot! Way to go, gentlemen.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 22 at 2015 12:30 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 22 Aug 2015 12:30:28 -0400

Thanks for the update! Kudos to them!

Response by MSgt Curtis Ellis made Aug 22 at 2015 12:56 PM

MSgt Curtis Ellis — Sat, 22 Aug 2015 12:56:44 -0400

AIR POWER!!! :D

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 22 at 2015 1:40 PM

Cpl Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 22 Aug 2015 13:40:49 -0400

Regardless the branch, it looks like the American military has saved the French again.

Response by SrA Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 22 at 2015 1:58 PM

SrA Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 22 Aug 2015 13:58:58 -0400

Regardless of branch of service, their bravery in what was surely to be a tragic situation is outstanding!

Well done men!

Response by MSG Floyd Williams made Aug 22 at 2015 2:06 PM

MSG Floyd Williams — Sat, 22 Aug 2015 14:06:53 -0400

Thank God our military personnel was there at the right time and location very commendable, now this is proof that we aren't cowboys to those who look at us this way. But, regardless of what positive comes out of Americans actions, there will always be ungrateful countries no matter what spiting out hate and begging for aid at the same time.

Response by SSG Ricardo Marcial made Aug 22 at 2015 2:10 PM

SSG Ricardo Marcial — Sat, 22 Aug 2015 14:10:49 -0400

Has any group claimed responsibility, or are they in a "DAMN AMERICANS" mode and don't want to claim it because it failed. As they say....Inshallah.

Courage, Sacrifice and the willingness to give some....or all. These brave men have proven that people are not backing down to the threats by these groups. I salute them, now break out the tequila.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Aug 22 at 2015 2:47 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Sat, 22 Aug 2015 14:47:54 -0400

Maybe they will have an appreciation for Americans and gain some humility.

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Aug 22 at 2015 3:19 PM

SFC Mark Merino — Sat, 22 Aug 2015 15:19:33 -0400

It appears we have another case of bad reporting. Not to take anything away from our beloved devil dogs, but they are now reporting it was not the Marines, but the Air Force leading the charge. Regardless, it shows that if our military is in the area, they run towards the danger and show what our military is all about. Let's hope they didn't have an Ashley Madison account and don't get reamed for not wearing their reflective belts.

Response by TSgt Joshua Copeland made Aug 22 at 2015 4:32 PM

TSgt Joshua Copeland — Sat, 22 Aug 2015 16:32:18 -0400

Glad to see the right people getting credit for their actions. It always sucks when you do the right thing and someone else gets the credit even when you did it because it was the right thing to do and not to get credit.

Response by Cpl Arwen Bernard made Aug 22 at 2015 5:33 PM

Cpl Arwen Bernard — Sat, 22 Aug 2015 17:33:13 -0400

I say good job to the Marines that risked their lives to help they didn't know to save them. Marines selfless to the end. Semper Fi

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 22 at 2015 5:52 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 22 Aug 2015 17:52:52 -0400

I love how the news always get the 9 mm pistols, automatic so right, all the time

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 22 at 2015 5:55 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 22 Aug 2015 17:55:47 -0400

CSM Michael J. Uhlig don't get me wrong, I am proud to serve with soldiers like them. Believe it or not, last year when I went to Paris, most French were more amicable to us, US service members there, kind of breaking the mold. They, overall, across Europe, have a big problem. I hope you are safe there CSM. God bless, and godspeed.

Response by SSG(P) D. Wright Downs made Aug 22 at 2015 7:07 PM

SSG(P) D. Wright Downs — Sat, 22 Aug 2015 19:07:13 -0400

I was in Europe tor 2 tours during the Cold War. Terrorists were everywhere, everywhere, everywhere. These men just did their job. So, they get a call from the prez for doing what they are trained to do. big deal. What is the attention all about? It used to all in a days work and was classified.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 22 at 2015 8:11 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 22 Aug 2015 20:11:33 -0400

More proof that Guardsmen (Army & Air) are more than up to the task. Great work gentleman!!!

Response by SSgt Donnavon Smith made Aug 22 at 2015 8:38 PM

SSgt Donnavon Smith — Sat, 22 Aug 2015 20:38:42 -0400

During the GWOT, could this act possibly rate a Silver Star?

Response by SFC Maury Gonzalez made Aug 22 at 2015 8:44 PM

SFC Maury Gonzalez — Sat, 22 Aug 2015 20:44:26 -0400

One of the soldiers said on a tv interview how they beat his ass after disarming the Moroccan, lol

Response by SGT Charlie Steward made Aug 22 at 2015 9:09 PM

SGT Charlie Steward — Sat, 22 Aug 2015 21:09:47 -0400

An Airman, a National Guardsman, and a local national, walked into a train. A Terrorist walked onto the same train with death on his mind, he didn't walk off..... Way to go, gentlemen!

Response by Cpl James Waycasie made Aug 22 at 2015 9:32 PM

Cpl James Waycasie — Sat, 22 Aug 2015 21:32:59 -0400

I applaud and thank our service men for an outstanding job, but the Article said it was an Airman and a National Guardsman. I didn't see any mention of any US Marine. I guess Europe countries think all US Servicemen are Marines? Or did I miss something in the article?

Response by Lt Col Stephen Petzold made Aug 22 at 2015 9:51 PM

Lt Col Stephen Petzold — Sat, 22 Aug 2015 21:51:55 -0400

Like any situation initial reports are often wrong. Hoping it prompts the USAF to be more like the Marines and have a culture that encourages Airmen to move out and take action in situations like this, rather than to take cover and wait for help.

Response by COL Charles Williams made Aug 22 at 2015 11:34 PM

COL Charles Williams — Sat, 22 Aug 2015 23:34:59 -0400

CSM Michael J. Uhlig Thanks for sharing. This is what we hope, all of us would do under these circumstances.

Response by LTC John Shaw made Aug 22 at 2015 11:46 PM

LTC John Shaw — Sat, 22 Aug 2015 23:46:44 -0400

CSM Michael J. Uhlig Outstanding! Glad to see these heroes stepped up when needed.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 22 at 2015 11:55 PM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 22 Aug 2015 23:55:21 -0400

This will sound a little weird, but this is VERY good for the US's international image, and specifically good for our service members' image. We sometimes come off as... well arrogant bastards... to other nations. This is something that will help that image for a while.

Response by SFC Joseph Weber made Aug 23 at 2015 12:54 AM

SFC Joseph Weber — Sun, 23 Aug 2015 00:54:54 -0400

Aim High!

Response by SSgt Stephen Gallaher made Aug 23 at 2015 4:12 AM

SSgt Stephen Gallaher — Sun, 23 Aug 2015 04:12:16 -0400

Great respect to the USAF Airman and Oregon National Guardsman who took this guy down. I hope if faced with the same situation, I too would have the courage to do what they did.

Response by Capt Lance Gallardo made Aug 23 at 2015 11:45 AM

Capt Lance Gallardo — Sun, 23 Aug 2015 11:45:50 -0400

An Oregon National Gaurd infantry soldier, and an AD Airman, and their civilian friend took direct action when faced with an AK-47 and 9 MM pistol and box cutter armed terrorist was about to unleash hell on a bunch of civilian passengers on a high speed commuter train between Paris and Amsterdam. The Airman was serious wounded during the struggle to disarm and subdue the terrorist who had known links to ISIS sympathizers and Muslim Radicals in France and Spain, and he might have traveled to Syria to receive training. It was time to "let's roll," as one of the passengers (Todd M Beamer) on the doomed United Airlines flight 93 during 9/11 told a Customer Service Supervisor. This offensive attitude of "Let's Roll" has obviously infused many Americans who refuse to be passive participants in their own murders when faced with a potential terrorist attack on a plane, boat, train or Bus. I am so proud to be a Citizen of the United States that still produces this kind of warrior! God Bless these young Americans and the country that helped make these young Americans.

Response by Capt Lance Gallardo made Aug 23 at 2015 11:51 AM

Capt Lance Gallardo — Sun, 23 Aug 2015 11:51:00 -0400

An Oregon National Gaurd infantry soldier, and an AD Airman, and their civilian friend took direct action when faced with an AK-47 and 9 MM pistol and box cutter armed terrorist was about to unleash hell on a bunch of civilian passengers on a high speed commuter train between Paris and Amsterdam. The Airman was serious wounded during the struggle to disarm and subdue the terrorist who had known links to ISIS sympathizers and Muslim Radicals in France and Spain, and he might have traveled to Syria to receive training. It was time to "let's roll," as one of the passengers (Todd M Beamer) on the doomed United Airlines flight 93 during 9/11 told a Customer Service Supervisor in his last phone call. This offensive attitude of "Let's Roll" has obviously infused many Americans who refuse to be passive participants in their own murders when faced with a potential terrorist attack on a plane, boat, train or Bus. I am so proud to be a Citizen of the United States that still produces this kind of warrior! God Bless these young Americans and the country that helped make these young Americans.

Response by SFC Dr. Joseph Finck, BS, MA, DSS made Aug 23 at 2015 12:32 PM

SFC Dr. Joseph Finck, BS, MA, DSS — Sun, 23 Aug 2015 12:32:58 -0400

MSgt Donald G. I think this is great! In Europe, in France no less, and thwarted a terrorist attack. To paraphrase President Theodore Roosevelt, Decorate them, decorate them all.

Response by Sgt Tom Cunnally made Aug 23 at 2015 1:02 PM

Sgt Tom Cunnally — Sun, 23 Aug 2015 13:02:55 -0400

I just watched their press conference with the US Ambassador to France & I am very proud of these three young men... But I get the feeling they are very uncomfortable with all of this attention & they just want to get on with their vacation. Sometimes it takes several days before an event like they went through to sink in.. They make America Proud & I wish them well. Americans will now thank them for their heroic actions.. I can only imagine what the Islamic Terrorist would have done with all of those AK-47 Magazines and pistol...

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Aug 23 at 2015 2:23 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Sun, 23 Aug 2015 14:23:39 -0400

Bold, decisive, and brave.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 23 at 2015 10:23 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 23 Aug 2015 22:23:45 -0400

This is from a blog in "This Ain't Hell". It's well written and conveys how I think all of us feel about those brave men.
American exceptionalism
Jonn Lilyea | August 23, 2015
The world seems to be in awe of the three Americans who tackled Moroccan Ayoub el-Khazzani on a train the other day and beat him to within an inch of his life in order to subdue the heavily armed, but poorly trained, terrorist. People in this country are rightly proud of U.S. Airman Spencer Stone and National Guardsman Alek Skarlatos and their friend, Anthony Sadler, a student who answered the call to action in order to protect hundreds of people they didn’t know.

The whole incident is a metaphor for the war against terror. Government does it’s best to protect the people from the animals with gun-control laws, no-travel lists, and general law enforcement, but the war against terror is actually fought in the streets, in strip malls, in the delis, in the train cars around the world by common citizenry – the targets of terrorism. Laws don’t hinder the lawless.

We’re constantly told how American gun laws aren’t consistent with the laws of the rest of the “civilized world” – that here are too many privately-owned weapons in the hands of citizens. However, the “civilized world” is the major target of the creatures who flaunt laws to spread their terror. Much the way that the terrorists who do succeed to terrorize us in this country target “gun free zones”, our mini-civilized areas.

I lived in Europe for nine years in the 80s, and I got the feeling that Europeans accepted terrorism as a part of their life. In Paris, when we visited, the tour guide warned us that ten bombs went off in the city every day, on the average. We went in a department store and had to go through metal detectors and have our packages searched, you know like we do now in our government buildings these days.

The Europeans stood by wringing their hands in the 90s when the Serbs were murdering Bosnians and Kosovars waiting for the Americans to take the lead. This administration stepped aside to give the Europeans a chance to lead in Libya and Syria in this decade – to tragic results.

Those same Europeans were expecting their governments to protect them on that train the other day, too, but somehow, law enforcement failed. El-Khazzani circumvented several laws written to protect the law-abiding people to smuggle those weapons on a train. He was also on 3 government “watch lists” but he wasn’t being watched. He had recently traveled to Syria for training, but he had apparently slept through the classes on weapon maintenance and his immediate action drills. Luckily.

Americans are criticized for being cowboys, but it’s always Americans who step into the breach. While I agree that we shouldn’t have to be the policemen of the world, but, in the words of Ronald Reagan, if not us, who?

Response by SGT Bryon Sergent made Aug 24 at 2015 9:27 AM

SGT Bryon Sergent — Mon, 24 Aug 2015 09:27:33 -0400

Good Job. The initial reports where that they where Marines. Doesn't matter. Between the National Guard and the Air Force we still done what we where trained to do! HOOAH!

There was one in the video was talking about a hand gun. So where was it and why didn't the news say anything about it!

Response by PV2 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 24 at 2015 10:00 AM

PV2 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 24 Aug 2015 10:00:09 -0400

With all due respect to my Marine friends, let's get this clear, it was an Airman, an Army National Guard soldier and a civllian. Let's give proper credit where it's due please.

I think they did a hell of a job and I'm proud of them for standing up and doing the right thing.

TSgt Joshua Copeland, CW3 Private RallyPoint Member, SSG James J. Palmer IV aka "JP4"

Response by MSG D. Layne-Sheffield made Aug 24 at 2015 10:09 AM

MSG D. Layne-Sheffield — Mon, 24 Aug 2015 10:09:19 -0400

Great job!!!

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 24 at 2015 10:13 AM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 24 Aug 2015 10:13:58 -0400

I've read several of the articles running the headlines this a.m., and all I can say, is that is some true-blue, John Wayne style, heroism on the part of these Americans! I am wondering if anyone can add some clarity to the question of who these personnel were; I've read it was an Airman, Guardsman and a university student, but have also heard that a Brit and Marines were involved. Hope that whomever and wherever they were from, these guys get the credit they deserve.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 24 at 2015 2:15 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 24 Aug 2015 14:15:30 -0400

Its pretty freakin' awesome! I couldn't be prouder if they were my own soldiers! The British gentleman summed it up rather nicely......"I would rather die fighting against a terrorist than being shot while sitting in a corner." Just awesome.

Response by SPC Luis Mendez made Aug 24 at 2015 2:31 PM

SPC Luis Mendez — Mon, 24 Aug 2015 14:31:52 -0400

Really! One was a NG the other an Airman with their CIVILIAN friend and a senior British man, there was also a French Citizen. So why on earth the Marines are having wet dreams about them being marines? Weird! This sort of things have happen thousands of times with no Military persons involved at all. Is a sign of a childish an immature mentality to assume their actions and courage have anything to do with two of the 5 people involved being military. Police and other civilians non-military are doing heroic things daily. Even women and children in places where war and disasters are happening are behaving heroically. You need to get off you little white pony show.

Response by CPL David Martin made Aug 24 at 2015 2:56 PM

CPL David Martin — Mon, 24 Aug 2015 14:56:38 -0400

Well done guys!!! God knows how many innicents you saved with your heroic actions.

Response by SGT Jlee Malina made Aug 24 at 2015 3:31 PM

SGT Jlee Malina — Mon, 24 Aug 2015 15:31:27 -0400

Awesome

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 24 at 2015 5:42 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 24 Aug 2015 17:42:50 -0400

It's wasn't two marines. It was a soldier and a airman.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 24 at 2015 6:00 PM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 24 Aug 2015 18:00:33 -0400

Someone should invite these fine young men to the rose garden . . . pin a medal on them . . . say a few words about valor of defending so many unsuspecting others . . . at the risk of grave injury and death . . , in the highest traditions of the all volunteer military service. SO VERY WELL DONE ! ! !

Response by CPT Pedro Meza made Aug 25 at 2015 10:54 AM

CPT Pedro Meza — Tue, 25 Aug 2015 10:54:23 -0400

It was two American civilians and two American military men. The first Civilian snatched the AK from the shooter, but was shot by the shooter who also had a handgun, his actions made it possible for the other three to take the shooter down.

Response by TSgt Ryan Lee made Aug 25 at 2015 2:27 PM

TSgt Ryan Lee — Tue, 25 Aug 2015 14:27:20 -0400

Well as for our "Airman" and National Guard member that did this, all I have to say is...Great job, proud of you! Chuck Norris would be proud!

Response by Capt Lance Gallardo made Aug 25 at 2015 3:34 PM

Capt Lance Gallardo — Tue, 25 Aug 2015 15:34:26 -0400

There were six persons directly involved or physically engaging the terrorist, four were civilians, only two were US Service Members Airman Stone, USAF-AD, who apparently is in a medical MOS of some type, and Oregon National Guardsman Infantry MOS Specialist Alek Skarlatos. One of the four civilians is still an unidentified French Citizen who is still in the hospital recovering from his injuries, and has apparently asked to be kept anonymous. The only other civilian wounded during the attack and the subduing of the terrorist is a dual-national US Citizen at birth, and French Citizen, College Professor Mark Moogalian. Please pray for him. He took a 9mm bullet in the neck, and is still in the hospital fighting to live. Last night he was reported to have worsened in condition, today a little better. He was the downed civilian that Airman Stone gave first aid to to stop the bleeding from his neck, despite his own serious injuries. He is probably fighting septicemia (blood poisoning) from his wound with Anti-biotics, or organ failure, after having loss so much blood. Mark Moogolian (who CNN says was the first to grapple with the Terrorist) and the as yet unnamed French Civilian were the first two passengers to grapple with the Terrorist and gave the three Americans and the British Citizen Chris Norman the time and space they needed to make their move. BTW the French Prosecutor has opened a preliminary terrorism investigation into the attack. I wonder if that meets the requirement for a Terrorist incident that would qualify the two US Service Members for a US Military Heroism Award, like the Silver Star, Distinguished Service Cross or Purple Heart in Airman Stone's situation?

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 25 at 2015 4:31 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 25 Aug 2015 16:31:07 -0400

If they wouldve been Starfleet personnel the attack wouldve never been happened

Response by SFC William Farrell made Aug 26 at 2015 12:05 AM

SFC William Farrell — Wed, 26 Aug 2015 00:05:45 -0400

They are heroes and were recognized as such by the French government although I think they should have been given a higher class of the Legion of Honor. I also believe Dod should recognize them with an appropriate award.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 26 at 2015 4:41 AM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 26 Aug 2015 04:41:48 -0400

The soldier should face UCMJ action for having a beard while on leave. JK LOL

Response by SFC Terry Fortune made Aug 26 at 2015 10:36 AM

SFC Terry Fortune — Wed, 26 Aug 2015 10:36:55 -0400

Yes, they did the right thing. By doing so they save many lives. Also there training kick in.

Response by CPO Andy Carrillo, MS made Aug 26 at 2015 6:43 PM

CPO Andy Carrillo, MS — Wed, 26 Aug 2015 18:43:24 -0400

It was a matter of survival, and our military are trained and prepared to do just that--destroy the threat. They noticed that the AK had jammed and the terrorist was having difficulty clearing the jam--so a window of opportunity opened and they took it, thereby saving many lives including their own. I am glad the AK wasn't the "jam-proof" weapon then that many claim it to be; otherwise, we would be mourning 3 more of our own, plus many civilians given France's non-existent security program, e.g., Charlie Hebdo massacre, et. al.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 28 at 2015 10:48 AM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 28 Aug 2015 10:48:48 -0400

The (not so) funny thing is that, since the terror attacks in January, France has been put in Vigipirate Alerte Attentat (~DEFCON 2; military is deployed within cities to protect religious facilities, newsrooms, etc..) to prevent another drama. However, the leak came from out-of-state, since the TGV (high-speed train) was coming from Amsterdam.

And even worse, the perpetrator was known by French Homeland security (DGSI), like most of previous terrorists that had committed terror attacks within the l last couple years.

French soldiers doing guard duties felt they were pretty useless, I am wondering what's their opinion now..

Anyway, glad Americans had enough courage to handle the situation, while train workers ran their way inside the safe room..