Army’s Air Defense System Named After MOH Recipient Mitchell Stout

Sgt. Mitchell Stout made history as the only Air Defense Artillery Soldier to receive the Medal of Honor. Now, history is being made again as the Army has just named their newest integrated air defense system after the sergeant. The program was formerly named the Maneuver-Short Range Air Defense, but is now taking on a more fitting name as the SGT STOUT project. The renaming isn’t the only new addition to the program. In fact, it is taking on an entirely new focus, protecting maneuvering forces by destroying and/or neutralizing aircraft systems that are unmanned. The program will also focus on neutralizing rotary and fixed-wing aircrafts, rockets, mortars, and artillery. Learn more about this re-designed program and what the future holds for the U.S.’s defense system.

Who Was Sergeant Mitchell Stout?

Mitchell Stout was born on February 24, 1950 in Knoxville, Tennessee. As a young adult, Stout enlisted in the Army where he quickly distinguished himself as a courageous sharp-shooter.His most memorable accomplishment was during an attack by a North Vietnamese Army Sapper company on his unit. While searching a bunker with members of his crew, his company came under heavy fire, and they were forced to take cover. Just when they thought that the attack had come to a close, a grenade was thrown into the bunker.With great courage and bravery, Mitchell Stout grabbed the grenade and ran out of the bunker to keep his fellow company safe. Just when he was about to exit the bunker, the grenade exploded.This is when Stout quickly decided to use his body as a shield, protecting others from injury. Sadly, his act of bravery cost him his life, but his courage was never forgotten. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qwpfVlL0yAg[/embed]

Mitchell Stout Honored With the Medal of Honor

Mitchell Stout received the Medal of Honor for his bravery, actions, and selflessness. Looking back at his accomplishments, Stout’s family has always been very proud of him. Now, with the newest air defense capability being named in his honor, his family is still showing their support.According to Stout’s sister, “Love for his guys is what led him to volunteer for a second tour. He felt like he could offer more than somebody that hadn’t been there before. That maybe he could help somebody.”Now, Mitchell Stout’s legacy is doing just that, protecting the lives of others. The SGT Stout is a family of systems that will be able to detect, track, and engage aerial objects that pose a threat to the security of the United States. The new system will protect the lives of Soldiers, making critical changes to the battlefield.

How Do You Obtain a Medal of Honor?

The Congressional Medal of Honor is the highest military award that one can receive. It is usually given for “conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty.” Additionally, the award is given by the President, often during an official ceremony at the White House.The requirements for a Medal of Honor have evolved over time. However, it is usually an honor only for military members. In addition to exemplifying tremendous bravery and exceptional sacrifice, a Medal of Honor recipient’s valiant act must occur under the following circumstances:

• During engagement in military operations involving conflict with a foreign force.

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• While engaged in action against a U.S. enemy.
• While serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in an armed conflict against an opposing force in which the U.S. is not a belligerent party.

What’s Next for the SGT STOUT System?