It's not enough...

[Garibaldi]

http://www.foxnews.com/us/2012/12/05/bogus-war-hero-sentenced-to-30-days-in-federal-prison/?test=latestnews

This guy faked his discharge papers. Claims to have 2 PH, 2 MSM and 3 Bronze Stars, as well as claiming service in Iraq, Afghanistan and other places, AND schools he never attended. I don't think the sentence is quite enough IMO.

[Eclipse]

And worse, he wasn't really convicted on any valor issues - it's altering an official document.

I wonder sometimes if the history these guys build is literally based on what the surplus store or online source had
in the clearance bin.

[FlyTiger77]

There may or may not be a sucker born every minute, but it seems that morons like this grow on trees. Geez.

[Garibaldi]

And worse, he wasn't really convicted on any valor issues - it's altering an official document.

I wonder sometimes if the history these guys is literally based on what the surplus store or online source had
in the clearance bin.

If that was the case, I could make myself a senior parachutist, with a CIB with star and wreath, multiple PH, and whatever other badges I wanted. The local surplus shop does NOT have the MoH, thankfully. I didn't look to see if it stocked Silver/Bronze Stars, Navy Cross, DFC or any other valor awards.

[Private Investigator]

I wonder sometimes if the history these guys build is literally based on what the surplus store or online source had
in the clearance bin.

One of my oldest son's friends said his father has the Medal of Honor from Viet Nam. The b.s. story is identical to the part where Forrest Gump goes to Viet Nam   

[RRLE]

And worse, he wasn't really convicted on any valor issues - it's altering an official document.

You cannot convict someone based on a law the Supremes threw out as unconstitutional. See US v. Alvarez

[Rick-DEL]

It is sad. There are few things we veterans can walk away with outside of memories, friends, or physical ailments. And, decorations are physical appreciations we get for our service. To see others walk into a surplus store or click a mouse online to "purchase" a fake history angers many. I know for one, what I have is what I earned and that cannot be devalued by fraudsters, but I do believe there should be a much stiffer penalty imposed on them.

[capmaj]

FYI..................  http://www.marinecorpstimes.com/news/2012/12/military-senate-passes-revised-stolen-valor-act-120312/

[Texas Raiders]

Do a search for Don Shipley or look him up on youtube.  He is a retired US Navy Senior Chief Petty Officer and SEAL who operates a BUDS prep course and helps maintain a complete database of all SEALS and/or graduates of BUDS.  His hobby is exposing SEAL imposters and others who are guilty of stealing valor from real veterans.  It will make your blood boil and entertain you at the same time.  The Senior Chief is a pretty funny guy, but don't tick him off.   

[krnlpanick]

Do a search for Don Shipley or look him up on youtube.  He is a retired US Navy Senior Chief Petty Officer and SEAL who operates a BUDS prep course and helps maintain a complete database of all SEALS and/or graduates of BUDS.  His hobby is exposing SEAL imposters and others who are guilty of stealing valor from real veterans.  It will make your blood boil and entertain you at the same time.  The Senior Chief is a pretty funny guy, but don't tick him off.

He also runs "The Extreme Seal Experience" which I hope to attend next summer.

[Eclipse]

Those videos are pretty funny.

Some of the fakes are just sad, but some of those guys are off the reservation.