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.
The Air Force could conduct an operation like Israel's successful air campaign against Iran's nuclear sites, military leadership and air defenses, but readiness issues would make it risky, airpower experts said. Limited spare parts and training, low mission capable rates and few flying hours would put a drag on USAF's…