The White House expressed gratitude for " courage and quick thinking of several passengers , including U.S. service members , who selflessly subdued the attacker ... " U.S. President Barack Obama telephoned the three Americans , thanking them for their heroic actions . General Philip M. Breedlove of the U.S. European Command in Stuttgart , added his voice , calling the three Americans heroes for their actions which " clearly illustrate the courage and commitment our young men and women have all the time , whether they are on duty or on leave . " Kevin Johnson , mayor of Sacramento , California , held a parade to honor Skarlatos , Sadler , Stone , and the victims of the September 11 attacks . Stone was awarded a United States Air Force Airman 's Medal and a Purple Heart at a ceremony held at The Pentagon
September 11 attacks
September 11 attacks
Spencer Stone