A1C Spencer Stone will receive the Purple Heart later this week for wounds received when he and his friends intercepted a heavily armed terrorist on a French high-speed train last month, announced Air Force Secretary Deborah Lee James at ASC15. Stone was already set to receive ?the Airman’s Medal, the Air Force’s highest noncombat award for bravery, but James disclosed that he will also receive the Purple Heart at a ceremony presided over by Defense Secretary Ash Carter. Army National Guardsman Spc. Alek Skarlatos will also be honored at the ceremony, added James. Stone was wounded behind his neck and hand, nearly severing his thumb.
Lt. Gen. Dan Caine, nominee to be chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told the Senate Armed Services Committee that the Defense Department needs to upgrade its electronic warfare capability and its EW training ranges; just as his predecessor said at his own confirmation hearing.