Some people delight to dance all night. Carmichael-raised soldier Alek Skarlatos is salivating to samba into next year.

In August, Skarlatos went on a European vacation with school friends Spencer Stone and Anthony Sadler. Their rescue of a French train from terrorist attack became an epic of American heroism. Skarlatos’ next adventure—contesting a TV ballroom dance prize—was equally risky.

The only contestant lacking stage experience, Skarlatos took third place. His most recent surprise was to sign up for a national Dancing with the Stars tour.

“I’m excited to get to go out there and perform without the pressure of being scored by judges,” says National Guardsman Skarlatos (23). “Before coming on the show, I’d never danced before and I didn't know how much work and fun it could be. I’m really glad (partner Lindsay Arnold) and I will get to focus on the fun part a little more now.”

Though a favorite with fans whose votes determined winners, Skarlatos’ survival to the finals dazzled the pros. “What you achieved in this competition is beyond all our expectations,” DWTS judge Bruno Tonioli told Skarlatos. Fellow judge Carrie Ann Inaba offered more praise. “When I watch you,” she summarized, “the word that comes to me is integrity, integrity of character and of movement.” Dancer/actress Julianne Hough predicted ongoing success: “The sky is full of stars,” she said. “Your future is bright.”

“I can’t wait for the adventure to continue,” Skarlatos said of the 43-performance tour. He described his leap from hero to hoofer as “the experience of a lifetime.” The year 2015, he considered, dealt him a whirlwind of emotions and activities. “I can’t think of a better way to cap it off than being able to greet everyone who has been so supportive of me,” he said.

The DWTS “Dance All Night” tour kicks off in Salt Lake City on Dec. 15th and ends with Feb. 14th shows in Phoenix. Its nearest stop to Sacramento is a Feb. 10th Stockton performance. At the city’s Bob Hope Theater, fans will pay between $80 and $269 ($1700 for “meet and greet” tickets) to applaud Skarlatos and fellow dancers. For tour information, go to www.dwtstour.com.