Skarlatos completed his secondary education and attended community college before enlisting in the Oregon Army National Guard in 2012. He served in Afghanistan with the 186th Infantry Regiment and 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team until his departure in November 2017. Skarlatos gained international recognition in 2015 for his role in thwarting a terrorist attack on a Thalys train, an incident that led to a life sentence for the gunman. Following this, he pursued a career in media, appearing in films and television shows, and competing in reality competitions. Skarlatos's diverse background includes military service, high-profile media appearances, and involvement in significant public safety events.

Alek Skarlatos blends a deeply personal military background with a surprisingly nuanced approach to national security, advocating for international cooperation against terrorism while pushing for stricter measures on public transport. His military advocacy extends to mental health reforms for service members, showcasing a rare focus on the psychological well-being of veterans. Skarlatos's social stances, including support for the naturalization of military service members, juxtapose his controversial comments on violence against women, revealing a complex ideological landscape. His rhetorical humility, downplaying his heroism, contrasts with his firm policy positions, creating an intriguing tension in his public persona.