Better Than Nothing

[jerryd6818]

The Honorable Mark S. Critz (PA-12)
United States House of Representatives
1022 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, DC 20515
http://www.critz.house.gov

September 13, 2012

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Critz: House Passes Stolen Valor Act of 2011

Ensures it’s a crime to knowingly benefit from lying about military service or awards


WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Congressman Mark S. Critz (PA-12) announced today that the House of Representatives has passed (410-3) the Stolen Valor Act of 2011, which makes it a crime to knowingly benefit from lying about military service or awards.

“Like many in western Pennsylvania , I believe that we must defend the honor and sacrifices of those who have served our great country,” said Congressman Critz, a Member of the House Armed Services Committee. "That is why, as a proud co-sponsor of the Stolen Valor Act of 2011, I am pleased today that the House of Representatives has passed this important piece of legislation.”

The bipartisan Stolen Valor Act of 2011 makes a key change to the Stolen Valor Act of 2005, which was overturned by the U.S. Supreme Court on June 28, 2012. Based on the Supreme Court’s ruling, the Stolen Valor Act of 2011 would be constitutional because it focuses on those who seek to benefit from misrepresentations of military service and awards.

“In light of the Supreme Court’s decision earlier this summer, it is important to clarify current law to continue our long-standing commitment to protect the prestige of military service and decorations awarded to our military heroes,” Congressman Critz added. “Moving forward, this bill ensures that the Medal of Honor, the Purple Heart, and other military awards will be shielded from fraud and abuse.”

The Stolen Valor Act of 2011 amends the federal criminal code to subject an individual, who with intent to obtain anything of value, knowingly makes a misrepresentation regarding his or her military service to a fine, imprisonment, or both.

[gringo]

so can i claim to be a buck private with no awards? without arrest or whatever?

[jerryd6818]

so can i claim to be a buck private with no awards? without arrest or whatever?

Donald, the way I read it, you could claim to be a four star General with the Medal of Honor, two Silver Stars and twelve Purple Hearts as long as you don't profit from it. (It's not you I'm mad at.)

[gringo]

i understand jerry...
when that movie about the navajo code talkers came out, i was sitting in a cafe in flagstaff...just minding my own business...
some 20 something navajo kid...drunk as a skunk...comes in and starts bragging about how he was a war hero from the nam...
green beenie and all...

well...needless to say...i couldn't let that pass...
i seem to have zero tolerance for idiots an liars.