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Soldiers who tackled military base gunman hailed for 'heroism'

August 7, 2025

Unarmed soldiers at Fort Stewart military base in Georgia displayed remarkable heroism when they tackled and subdued Sergeant Quornelius Radford, a 28-year-old US Army soldier who allegedly opened fire, injuring five people. Six soldiers who intervened were honored with service medals for their courage, as they ran toward the gunfire, restrained the shooter, and provided immediate medical care to victims. The suspect, who reportedly sent a cryptic text message to his aunt before the shooting saying "he loved everybody" and would "be in a better place," is now in custody while the Army Criminal Investigation Division and FBI investigate the incident.

Who is affected

  • Five injured soldiers (none publicly named), three of whom have been released from hospital and two who continue receiving treatment
  • The six soldiers who intervened and were awarded service medals, including Staff Sgt. Melissa Taylor
  • Sergeant Quornelius Radford, the 28-year-old suspect who is now in pre-trial confinement
  • Military personnel at Fort Stewart base in Georgia
  • The Radford family, including the suspect's father Eddie Radford and his aunt who received the text message

What action is being taken

  • Sgt. Radford is being held in pre-trial confinement and will likely be transferred to a military detention center
  • The Army Criminal Investigation Division and FBI are jointly leading an investigation into the shooting
  • Medical care is being provided to the two soldiers who remain hospitalized
  • The Department of Defense is declining to comment on claims about alleged racism at the base while the investigation proceeds

Why it matters

  • The quick response of unarmed soldiers prevented additional casualties and potentially saved lives
  • The incident highlights both heroism and potential underlying issues within the military base
  • The shooting raises questions about safety protocols and security at military installations
  • The case draws attention to possible mental health or social concerns within military units
  • The honorable response of fellow soldiers demonstrates military values of courage and selfless service

What's next

  • No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC

Soldiers who tackled military base gunman hailed for 'heroism'