This story, I tell you, is truly inspiring. I turn (improbably for me) to the NYT—
Alek Skarlatos, a specialist in the National Guard from Oregon vacationing in Europe with a friend in the Air Force, Airman First Class Spencer Stone and another American, Anthony Sadler, looked up and saw the gunman. Mr. Skarlatos, who was returning from a deployment in Afghanistan, looked over at the powerfully built Mr. Stone, a martial arts enthusiast. “Let’s go, go!” he shouted.
Mr. Stone went after the heavily armed gunman and, with his friends, pounded him to the floor of the train carriage….
Well done, fellas. Stone deserves a Purple Heart, and I hope they all receive awards for valor.
Now, some points to consider from this little action:
- The Long War is ongoing; the enemy will increasingly appear in unexpected places, so be alert
- ACT; don’t wait for permission or worry about what might happen
- You’re not unarmed if you move quickly and decisively
- Don’t let up until your adversary is incapacitated or dead; this is no time for mercy
- Don’t expect your adversary to be incompetent
- Post security as soon as you can; don’t let your guard down
- Expect to get hurt; make sure you have a small trauma kit
Again, well done, fellas! We’re proud of you!