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The Stolen Valor Act, signed into law by U.S. President Bush in 2006, was enacted with a conscious effort to deter people from falsely representing having received any U.S. military decoration or medal.
The act granted more authority to Federal law enforcement officers, broadening the law to cover false claims, in order to protect the reputation and meaning of military heroism medals. What this means is that it is illegal for unauthorized persons to wear, buy, sell, barter, trade, or manufacture “any decoration or medal authorized by Congress for the armed forces of the United States, or any of the service medals or badges awarded to the members of such forces.”
Dozens of men and women have ignored this law and have been prosecuted accordingly, but a recent ruling by the 9th Circuit Court on a California case from 2007 has garnered the attention of the U.S. Supreme Court, and now the rest of America.
Xavier Alvarez was tried and found guilty of violating the 2006 act when he told event planner Melissa Campbell that he was a former Marine and recipient of the Medal of Honor. Unfortunately for him, Ms. Campbell herself was a U.S. Marine Corps veteran who had 10 years of service, and knew that he wasn’t telling the truth. Nevertheless, he appealed his conviction, claiming it violated his Constitutional right of free speech.
There are now two opposing views in this ever-growing free speech debate. One side believes that there shouldn’t be a law to “shame” those that lie about their military service, and that no harm is done by doing so. On the contrary, others view these cases as serious breaches of honor within American society.
The argument here is not whether the Constitution should or should not protect false statements, but whether or not lying should be an offense punishable by law. Should we allow those that would misrepresent the U.S. military a free pass on grounds of freedom of speech, or should we, as a country, protect and defend the honor of our nations’ heroes who have selflessly protected and defended our home?
Ms. Campbell eventually suffered from following the letter of the law. After exposing Mr. Alvarez’s medal claim as a hoax, she was reportedly fired. Her company cited “unprofessionalism” as the reason, in regards to approaching Mr. Alvarez during the tour he was taking. The company refused to respond about her departure, citing a policy of not commenting on personnel matters.
Photo thanks to SoulSoap under creative commons license on Flickr.
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230 Comments
I see nothing wrong with the hobby of collecting military awards, medals, badges and other prestigious insignia. The harm is done when a person professes to have EARNED any given award or decoration who has not in fact recieved it.
It isn’t now, nor has it ever been unlawful to collect military medals, with one exception. You may not own a Medal of Honor unless a President hung it around your neck.
Not quite true Ssgt, widows may own one if their spouse died while preforming that act that earned it.
or unless you are the recipient’s living relative, in the case of a postumous award
If you didn,t earn it you have no reason to have it in your possession.
I would say that having a medal in your possession if you did not earn it should not be a crime…thats like saying if you own a WWII rifle or gun, but you did not earn it, you should not have it. Well i have many of the rifles and hand guns of WWII and that is not a crime, and i did not “earn” them. For the fact that this guy lied about earning a medal of anything…he should be damn disapointed in himself because if he didnt have the balls to go and earn it himself then he shouldnt be allowed to continue in his track for America’s Got Tallent. Uploaded the wrong picture from his computer my butt…this guy has a fake stutter and it proves he really is an ass….
” Whoever knowingly wears, manufactures, or sells any decoration or medal authorized by Congress for the armed forces of the United States, or any of the service medals or badges awarded to the members of such forces, or the ribbon, button, or rosette of any such badge, decoration or medal, or any colorable imitation thereof, except when authorized under regulations made pursuant to law, shall be fined under this title (18 United State Code) or imprisoned not more than six months or both.
Title 18 United States Code. Sec. 1001, entitled “Statements or entries
generally,” June 25, 1948, ch. 45, 62 Stat. 749.”
http://www.cmohs.org/medal-faq.php
No the “only” harm done in making such a false claim is “the entitlement to certain state and federal benefits”. Other than that, he is not committing a crime. This is a supposed free country, he can say what he wants, so long as he is not trying to receive benefits. Do you want your freedoms taken away? Do you want this country to become a Totalitarian dictatorship? I didn’t think so! So the guy is a lying tool…. who cares, he still has the same right of speech as anyone else in this country, without any fear of oppression or reprimand!
I Don’t Think So Jose
Why don’t we just let anyone do or say whatever they want to. We need laws and rules. If I don’t earn my paycheck I can’t just take the money from the cash drawer because I want to and think I deserve it.
Harm is seriously done when someone that did not earn the medal claims is allowed to make false claims of being decorated. It cheapens the award, making it nothing more special then a verbal attaboy. IF people cannot be honourable in their conduct the law must stand it to maintain the integrity of the honour so that it truly remains an honour.
he does have the freedom to lie people also has the wright to call his bluff
Jeff, the problem with allowing the lie to carry on unchallenged or unpunished is that it demeans the value of said act that true recipients did to earn the awards. It is absolutely wrong and should go as a crime because it is a crime against humanity and moral crime. Go earn CMOH, SS, BS or medal of valor and then tell us how you feel about someone taking what you did and making it mean nothing. These guys like Dakota Meyer or Leroy Petry (who is still on active duty at last check) know what they did to earn this and I’m sure they would trade alot of things for the piece of cloth and metal…such as the lives that were lost.
Ms, Campbell was correct in doing what she did-
It is misrepresentation. One cannot put MD after their name or wear any kind of insignia that one would make one assume the person was something they are not. It should be against the law because it is fraud. People can cheat proper vets from getting their benefits. Have some respect for those that have put their life on the line for YOU.
You may put MD after your name, you may not practice medicine though. You may claim that you used to be a cop, but you can’t impersonate an active cop. etc..
Well all this is going to do is increase the sale value of metals & decorations and will be moving market for them to the Black Market. Good work bush. Just about as good as the trade agreemnts congressed signed that shiped our Industry & jobs overseas.
? Ah ?? Hmmm ?? Nope, I can’t figure out what the hell you are talking about. ? This has to be the widest cast tangent I have ever seen. But I guess what your saying is that it will be harder for you to buy medals because it’s Bush’s fault?????
Thats what the noboby said. I don’t get it either. This law has been on the books a long time, Bush just choose to push the issue. People do not have the right to impersonate a Hero……
WHAT???
So the guy that lied about his service and receiving our nations highest honor is granted the right to do so and look like a hero and the soldier that reported this violation of truth and honor has been let go for reasons that won’t even be disclosed. Where has our nations integrity gone. It’s about time that our highest court open their eyes and see what this does to our country and the soldiers that serve her.
Marine, Brick, NOT a soldier.
What’s that suppose to mean? Also general Shinseki (2001 Army Chief of Staff) ordered all uniformed members to capitalize the word Soldier! More Soldiers have made more sacrifices in the name of this country, not to give them that respect!
SSGT was stating that Marines are not to be referred as Soldiers. Ms. Cambell is a Marine and always will be a Marine
You EX (FORMER MARINES ) always make me laugh.I applaud your sense of loyalty to your organization.Old ARMY guys like me have our loyaltyto our units and divisions, not the Army itself.
It sounds to me like she was being discriminated against by the company she worked for, for being a veteran. I would sue the pants off that place if I were her.
Again it show why Veterans have a hard time fitting in to this society. We have a code of ethics and live by honor.
Briand and Karr-USMC
You both hit that nail on the head.
Karr-USMC has hit on something that has been bothering me for a long time now. It has taken quite a while to get what my brain has been trying to tell me. Furthermore civilians, even friends (by civilian I mean never served in the Armed Forces), don[‘t seem to get this. Curious, I can’t recall everybody being without personal honor and ethics before the first time I entered the Army. Thanks Karr for letting me see it written (and not just some nebulus thought floating around my brain!).
In my opinion, the “freedom of speech” should apply to truthful speech, not lies or fabrications. I would like to see “truthful speech” adhered to in political speech as well.
Like that wll ever happen, a politician telling the truth!
I don’t think she should have lost her job cause that man has lied about being in the armed forces. As a USN vet I think he got his just punishment and she should get her job back!!!!!!!!!!!
It is a complete shame on the court systems of America when they side with liars, cheats and thieves. It would have been unprofessional for Ms. Campbell to let the hoax to continue, knowing it was false. Cowards hide behind the valor of others, claiming it as their own.
We who have served or are serving deserve the respect and protection of our values and honor.
Thank you for your service. I appreciate you so much.
unfortunately,Congress and the “resident” in charge know nothing of our sacrifices! Every year they have every intention on balancing the federal budget on our backs,as well as those who earned their SS and medicaid!This “resident” in charge cares nothing about keeping our military in top shape with the latest in gear and technology! It wouldn’t surprise me an iota that if Iran attacked our waships Oblunder would say “oh no, we don’t have the fuel to keep them afloat, bring ‘em home”!
sounds like you’ve been in obama’s war planning room…
I whole heartedly agree with you. obummer doesn’t know what vets go thru or what it means to us how we are treated, and as our nations leader a great dane would do better
Isn’t this the President that failed to salute a medal of honor winner?
Well “THE RESIDENT IN CHARGE” only communists call “COMMANDER IN CHIEF” that Passed BIGGEST VETERANS HEALTHCARE BILL IN HISTORY
he did??????????????????????????
If you dislike the President that much, Pack your crap and move to Canada,Mexico or any other Country of your choice!
Hey Kenneth, Guess i will be moving soon, But I, as a Honorable discharged,Decorated Viet nam Veteran, I find it obscure for anyone who has not EARNED the Ribbons, Medals, to Wear and pose as a Warrior, I ,Have the Silver Star, the Bronze Star,three Purple hearts,C.I.B. and several Major campaign Ribbons/awards,,Which I earned, and proud to wear at times..But I earned that right and i am opposed to ANYONE who claims to have been Awarded any Ribbons/Awards and never been in Military service…HOORA
ready and forward… last of all, OBAMA has never served his Country in war, or Otherwise,,,NOT even today is he doing any thing for the MILITARY….He is Taking away many benifits that we have/Had..
Buffalo Soldier Always….HOORA
Mr. Bishop, thank you first and foremost for your service to your country, if, in fact, you did serve. The fact that you use the term “HOORA,” which comes from the Marine Corps, and then refer to yourself as a Buffalo Soldier are very contradictory, since no Marine I know of would ever call themselves a “soldier.” And if you’re going to post on a subject like this, especially when I tend to agree with you, please do it in an intelligent manner. Your use of the word obscure is so inappropriate that it makes you seem very dumb, which takes away a significant amount of credibilty from your argument, which is also MY argument.
Sincerely,
Prior service Cavalry Scout
I did 31 yrs my friend, retired first sgt, I’ll have coffe with you any time
@Brian…EVERY branch has laid claim to Hoorah saying in the last fifty years, Even my beloved Seabees use it now…. as far as correcting spelling and grammer, well, take a break dude! As far as the subject at hand, the weasel should be tarred and feathered for saying he was a MOH earner. Way to many men have died earning that award. I feel there is something very sacred about that particular award.
SEMPER FI
What happened to Freedom of Speech now?????
Dear Hilda, No disrespect intended but ask yourself that same question “What happend to freedom of speach? And go tell Juge Judy (in a loud voice) to “SHUT UP WHILE YOU ARE TALKING!” and see what happens! or exorcise you freedom of “Choice” when you “Choose” to drive 70 in a school zone and the with your fredom of “speech” Tell the Cop to kiss your arse and to get out of your way!!! Then see what happens! The point is, it’s called “Stolen Valor” The man is a THIEF! He is a Liar, and Ms. Cambell should fight for “HER” Right to report a theft of HONOR! But as usuall the ones who Fought for our rights! DON”T HAVE ANY!!! Sorry but I’m a frustrated old Blue Jacket that still says the right things to the wrong people. Tell it to our political leadership if you need a good laugh! They will typicaly try to be “hummorus” and then turn a deff ear as they sudenly walk away! Been there Done that! But it is kind of funny when you watch them! It makes you wonder if they all have the same acting coach! BUT! Us Vets Have the right to be depressed, suicidal, angree,frustrated and finally after enough crap like this from our Politicians! We just want to be “LEFT THE FXXK ALONE!
Hopefully Ms. Campbell will find better employment with a firm that has some integrity.
If I owned a company, she would not need to seek employment!
If I owned the company that Ms. Campbell worked for, I woulde not only not fire her but I would pay for any legal fees she would incurr. As a matter of fact, I feel that any and all Veteran groups shoulf rally around her and help foot the bill to pay for the lawyers that are going to defend the rights of us vets. in the Supreme Court.
U.S.N. ’70-’74, Viet Nam Vet. God Bless America!
i’d like to know the name of the company that fired her
Southern California Edison http://weaponsman.com/?p=1509
I’d like to know the name of the Company that fired her too!
This freedom of speech is just a cover for those who did not serve in any military of our great nation. they should be embarrased to say they were in the service i bet the person in this article was one of those chicken shits that ran from the service and it’s a slap in the face to EVERY ONE that has served and is now in ACTIVE service for this clown to say he’s in the Brotherhood with them Shame on Him if he wants to say he was or is a MARINE go to Parris Island or Camp Pendelton for a week i bet he’ll be crying to go home .
It’s there 4 a reason. The men & women that really earned i that served w/ honor some even died 4 those S. O. B’S 2 use the freedom of speech. If they want a medal sign on the dotted line like we did. I spent 6 yrs in the Army almost a yr. was in Bosnia so yea lock their ass up.
Dislike! I can’t believe most of you retired/discharged service men and women…. WOW!!! You/I/We swore to defend the “Constitution of the United States”, which includes the American Amendments and the Bill of Rights! People like you sound like complete power hungry jack asses to me. Get off your high horse and diminish your shitty ego a bit, no one owes you anything, just because you joined the military! It is people like you who ruin this great country!
You know I do not see where ANY of us says that this country owes us. I make a bet with you though.. each and every one of us wrote a check payable to the USA up to and including our lives,. My bet is you have never wrote that check or even considered doing it. So if you come onto a website that extolls the virtues that WE hold in high esteem and denigrate us…. Well I do believe you can go copulate and perish.
As a aside, you really do enjoy the freedoms that these Men and Women have provided you do you not!
I may not agree with what you say, but I will defend to the death your RIGHT to say it. I think this law is misguided simply in the fact that it curtails our first amendment of free speech. We already have laws in place to protect citizens from loss due to fraud and, therefor, if an individual were to benefit, monotarily, from stolen honor than his act would be procecutable. The beauty of our freedom is that we are free to be idiots.
CAN WE LIE IN A COURT OF LAW???TRY THAT AND SEE WHAT HAPPENS,ALBIET OUR PRES CLINTON GOT AWAY WITH IT. BUT HE WAS LACKING IN INTEGERATY ALSO.NO WONDER WE DEFEND LIERS,
Spoken like someone who has not served and has no idea about what this means to people who have. Just claiming to have served is bad enough but claiming to have earned the nations’s hightse award is reprehensible beyond the pale. It demeans all who have served and devalues the people who have given their lives in deense of scum like him. He has benefitted from his lies and it is finally catching up with him. There are far too many like him in this country. I can’t believe someone can look in the mirror after falsly claiming to have served, What maggots!
So you are saying that this clown deserves the right to receive the benefits and admiration for something he never did. And you are also saying it was okay for the person exposing this fraud to be fired and lose her job affecting her quality of life due to loss of income?
And where is her right to freedom of speech for speaking up against this fraud??
If a person claims to have been in the military but was not, maybe aweek in Marine Corp boot camp will curb his lying.
Oh really? You defend? what MOS were you? who was your Bn Co and your unit? dude you sound like a fucking fake. Goddamned moto wanna civilian fuck
you really should stick to the subject at hand, I was in Fort Lewis WA., Ft. Benning GA. Ranger school, Did 3 tours in Viet Nam, was not assigned to any particular base or Co. yet was in most of them, many I would rather not remember, all I had was a number sewn in the back of my colar and in the waste line of my pants…. Unusual but true and accurate, although I agree with PARTS of most of the posts here, I disagree with many and their lots of hot heads in here that post before annalizing or processing what is really being said, FREEDOM OF SPEECH, NO MATTER THAT HE IS A LOWLIFE is still precious to us all and that is one of the reasons I served and would do it all over again, for the same reasons as before!!!!!!!!!!!!
DaDarkwater, you should stick to opinions about issues that directly relate to you. I served 6 years 3 months active duty in the U.S. Army. I am a veteran of Desert Storm. I am deeply angered at the blatant trivialization of what Alvarez has done. It does not matter what classes you attended, how high your grades were. It really doesn’t even matter what a service member has done. It takes an act of Congress to award the MOH! And Congress uses it sparingly to commend those who defied the odds and in the face of enemy fire performed actions that are almost inconceivable to even a service member! A doctor is guaranteed the conference of a degree if the grades are good enough. There is no guarantee of any awards for the MOH! You cheapen the sacrifice and the service of those who EARNED their medals! At least give them their due!
LMAO OAOA …. Really Drmayna? Because the issue of free speech only relates directly to … you? Wow…SMDH.
A Lier Is A Lier… That’s what’s wrong with this Country Now… Let’s Pat them on the Head, Tell them it’s alright to Lie. If you Lie about Being in the Military, You will Lie about anything… My Husband Served, My Son has Served, My Family Members have served. It’s a Cheap Shot at all of our Military Men and Women… Proecute This or any other Persons Who has the gull to Lie about their Military Service…
I would also like to know the company’s name.
Southern California Edison which is Edison International providing electricity for 14 billion people in California.
well, another SoCal company more worried about diversity than honor? Wonder what would happen if all their customers did not pay just this months bills, then next month pay both then the next month cut them off again! Do it until Ms Campbell is reinstated with a full page spread in the local papers apologizing for their snotty attitude…. professionalism your ass! Let’s ee the suit try to budget that one!
I agree with what Ms. Campbell did in exposing this jerk!!! My Dad was a Vietnam Veteran, my brother has been to Iraq and Desert Storm and Guantanimo Bay Cuba, I served, but never in a combat AO. All of us have received awards and decorations that we earned and proudly wear. Between the three of us we have 70 plus years in the service of our country. My Dad has earned the Purple Heart, Bronze Star (V device) and a littany of other awards. My brother has also earned the Bronze star and other awards. I have earned 2 Meritorious Medals, Joint Service Accomendation Medal and numerous ACMs and AAMs. We earned these, they were not just purchased at the base exchange or army surplus store or online. WE EARNED THEM!!!!!!! Just like the many other serving men and women of the US Military!!! To have some non-serving jerk to portay him/herself has having served and awarded the highest combat decoration is a slap to the face of the dead servicemen that have earned the distinction to wear the MOH.
This is not a case of violation of someone’s “Freedom of Speech,” this is someone who IMPERSONATED A SERVICE MEMBER!!!!! It is not alright for someone to pass themself off as a POLICEMAN or JUDGE or DOCTOR, so how is this different?
Is this another example of liberals slapping someone on the wrist for doing something wrong and sending them on their way!!! This person violated a LAW!!!!!! Period!!!! Time to face the music for those actions. AS for the company that let Ms. Campbell go, shame on you!!! This guy should have been checked out first, too bad that Ms. Campbell, a veteran herself, had to point out somebodies foul up!!!!!!
Sounds like a young wannabe. First, your Meritorious Medal is actually the Meritorious SERVICE Medal, Second, your Joint Service medal is the Joint Service COMMENDATION Medal. If you are going to rant, at least use the right names for the medals. I ACTUALLY served in Vietnam, Desert Storm & Operatiion Iraqi Freedom and have 24 distinct medals/ribbons, many with numerous citations for them. I was proud to wear them properly and HATE the posers who try to get over on someone by claiming to have earned them. Anyone who claims to have been awarded the CMOH falsely should be sent to the military detention center at Ft. Leavenworth for an indefinite period. By the end of their term there, they would feel like they had spent time in combat.
You rant about using the right names for the medals and then call it the CMOH. Perhaps you should use the proper names as well … it is just the Medal of Honor.
NO IT ISN’T. Look things up before spouting off .
The CORRECT name is the CONGRESSIONAL MEDAL OF HONOR also known as the CMOH
Mr. Evans, you should do YOUR research. It is no longer called the “Congressional” Medal of Honor. I refer you to the last sentance in the first paragraph of the link below.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medal_of_Honor
You sound like the un-educated WANNABE. You LIE here and tell people that you served in Nam, Desert Storm as well as Iraqui Freedom, WELL SIR, I CALL YOU A DAMN LIE. 30-35 plus years and you still went to combat, BULLSHIT. They would have retired your lying ass by then. 24 citations ?? DUDE citations issued by the police DO NOT COUNT
Yes, I will admit that it is unlikely that would have VN, Gulf I and II on their resume but it is possible, even for combat. I’m a Vietnam Vet (and very proud of my service). There was a story in one of our local papers about a guy who worked for the Customs and Immigration (now homeland Security) Dept who was a Helicopter Pilot and a WO-5. He served in all three. Active duty Nam and reserve (or NG-I don’t remember) for the the later two.
Actually the limit id 40yrs of service Michael so you get your facts straight.
Depends on your branch of service and rank upon retirement. Those, sir, are the facts. 34 Navy veteran here, served in Desert Storm And OIF II-2, Purple Heart recipient.
well mikey i have co-worker who is a viet Nam Vet..Desert Storm..and Iraqi freedom,first two tours were active duty, went in in 70 as a 18 year old andspent 8 years active then went into the reserves and was called up to active duty, sent to the sandbox under both Bushes, So once again you are proven wrong..
You hit the nail right on the head. I think we should put people like this in a room full of VETRANS and see if his FREEDOM OF SPEECH can be heard over the vets kicken his a$$.
Dislike!!! I am also a retired Army combat vet, but that does not take away or add to the fact that THIS IS A FREE COUNTRY!!! THIS IS WHAT WE ARE SUPPOSED TO DEFEND!!!! Some of you guys act like you want total government dominance over you for some STRANGE reason! George Washington would be rolling in his grave!
Try impersonating an officer of the law, that IS ILLEGAL. But they allow impersonation of a soldier, protector and hero. Doesn’t seem right to me. I’m proud of my service and it troubles me that a common “con artist” can pretend to have done the same things. However them pretending will never give them the same “feeling” and sense of pride that actually serving can give you.
Chad has hit it right on! These scum who claim to have served without actually doing so cannot duplicate what it really means to have served with honor!! The actions of this liar and cheat should be dealt with with the same fervor as the people who ran across international boundaries to avoid service! That’s my opinion!
I commend Ms Campbell. If we don’t do things like what she did than what do our metals or commendations stand for. If we have earned them we deserve to wear them if not don’t try.
I think she was right in arguing the facts. I am an active duty Marine nothing makes me mad more than someone who portrays an American hero but who is just a coward
I Say…HANG em…It’s TREASON ….in my eyes….Anything done to Military Vets in disrespect is an act of Treason…We put our LIVES on the line for those inconsiderate INGRATES …only to have them SPIT on us…and throw EQUAL RIGHTS …and FREEDOM OF SPEECH MULLARKY laws at us…WE KNOW THE LAW!!!…we were sent to protect OUR LAWS & our way of LIFE….May you burn in HELL for your Unpatriotic ways…
…………………………………U.S. ARMY (HUAH)……………………………….
Obviously you don’t know the law.
work for a mental institution crazy people lie about far more then that. Do we really need to put all crazy people in jail laws are meant to guide people not be the end all be all or the walls that keep people in line. A soldier gets awards because he has done something that makes him worthy of that award. He will continue his worthy actions and lead the life of a true hero like any other soldier. However nobody starts out saying I will save those people to get a award , I will lead and do my job to get a award , I will be a doctor in the armed forces and get a award. AWARDS ARE METAL PEOPLE ARE FLESH BONE AND BLOOD get over it. When you fight more for metal then you do the flesh and blood we have a problem. When soldiers go without because the chain of command has forgot to look down and notice they wear the same boots as the enlisted we have a problem. Bring back the brother and sister spirit that is the armed services tell your protesters its never been about the medals they can get but the family that they serve with. Good looking out but faith comes from camo wearing long hours on a post and missing family far away. They do the job that nobody else wants to to keep a way of life safe. Freedom to say I wish I had won a medal even if you did not. Pride comes before a great fall. Standing with family , learning to do whats right and no medal brings back the dead.
She was 100% right in exposing him. those who misrepresent and falsely claim to have served, or being awarded medals or military honors are an Insult and deminish those who have served and Have EARNED thier Medals and Honors.
Hoorha and Semper Fi to Ms Campbell…..If this dirt bag lied about this I am sure he is lying about everything ? Some people just don’t get it…..What goes around comes around….
Joseph Chamberlain
USN Gunners Mate Vietnam Veteran 65-68/Veterans Of Vietnam Mptorcycle Club/VFW/PGR
It is fraud which is against the law and they should be punished. Unless you have been there don’t talk about it.
Sorry. But I feel “free speech” is getting out of control. When the constitution was signed there was NO mass media. Mass media is taking advantage of the right to speak your mind. Lying is illegal no matter where it takes place.
Is it? Show me the law that says what Alvarez did is illegal.
You have got to be kidding me, do u really support this, you should be ashamed
As a memeber of the armed forces, it is my duty and solemn vow to protect the Constitution of the United States. The first amendment clearly states: “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.” Our government was wrong to have ever signed S. 1998 … it is that simple; therefore it would be wrong for the USSC to support it in any way shape or form.
The damage done to the very fabric of our Nation is much more so than that inflicted by this “small” and inconsequential individual. Yes, what he did is despicable, however, he did no harm other than to embarrass himself and piss some people off. He wasn’t wearing a uniform, carrying around someone elses medal, lying for substantial gain, he did not defame anyone or commit financial fraud or otherwise. He was probably just trying to “score”.
Those who earned the medal displayed extraordinary bravery, and most died doing so. They deserve our uttmost respect and honors. Part of that is in keeping our oaths to protect the Constitution, no matter how offensive. We MUST not continue to go beyond except in cases of the most destructive speech.
There are websites operated by the Congressional Medal of Honor Society, Military Times and others that have complete listings of all recipients of the CMO and other medals as well. The surest cure for offensive speech is said to be more speech, and it is true. Government censorship is a slippery slope and ground is rarely, if ever, recovered from it, and prosecution is simply not the answer. It would have been simple enough to out this “schmuck” and publicly humiliate him. Justice would have been served, Melissa Campbell, who has obviously never read the document that she swore to lay down her life for, could have reported it anonymously and kept her job, and the state and federal governments would have kept all the money for legal fees and been able to put it to better use.
Of course, maybe something good will come out of all of this, and the Stolen Valor Act (S. 1998) will be repealed and possibly re-written to actually protect the people.
The 1st Amendment ONLY covers cases of seditious libel, therefore, any power not specifically granted to the Congress is left to the People (aka the state). So when this case gets to the Supreme Court, the only thing they can do, legally, is to read the constitution, perhaps take into account Federalist no. 84, and rule that the S. 1998 is indeed unconsititutional. If you think that verbally lying about military service should be a crime, then you need to democratically propose a law, within the region in which you live, to make it punishable by law. Until you have done so, and until someone has then spoken such a lie, within that area, no crime has been committed. According to this article, he wasn’t applying for any benefits, he wasn’t trying to “get” anything except perhaps “laid” by Miss Campbell. Is it a despicable act? … yes. Is it way less than honorable? … yes; but he did no harm other than to offend another individual. Now if he puts on a uniform, wears one of the medals, carries one around with him and states that it is his, lies on an application, forges, commits financial fraud, etc., well those are crimes that he can be prosecuted for. Other than that, there are watchdog groups, made up of private citizens, publications, etc. that stand at the ready to absolutely humiliate anyone who tries this sort of thing. Simply stated, this man recieved enough attention nationwide, that no matter where he goes, he will be known as dishonorable, his reputation is destroyed, no one will trust him. That is the punishment, there need be no more for this type of offense other than to maybe write to the 130 or so living recipients of the Medal of Honor and apologize to them directly.
Do you not think that defying the Constitution of the United States, you know, that document all soldiers swear to give our lives to protect from enemies foreign and domestic, also diminishes the value of the service rendered by the Medal of Honor recipients?
Now, in this case, I believe this man actually did more than simply state that he was a MOH recipient. (http://weaponsman.com/?p=1509) here, you can clearly see the he is fully and improperly outfitted as a soldier. That is a crime punishable by law. However, no person should be jailed for simply stating such. That is a slippery slope that we wouldnever recover.
If you wanted to write a book get a publisher.
Lying is not illegal, nor has it ever been illegal in our country’s past! I completely agree with Heather and I am a retired combat veteran myself! Now if you guys want the government to scrutinize and monitor every little thing that you guys do, fine! But for me? I say HELL NO! I am a free citizen who has the right (as does any American) to say what I want without repercussion. This young mans lie was not treason or perjury, it was just a little lie, probably done to get that other young woman into bed! Now it WOULD be a crime had that young man applied for certain state and federal benefits that are associated with receiving the Medal of Honor, but that did not take place!Why are some of you guys so up to giving away you freedoms as an American? You swore to defend these same liars! If you have that big of an ego to think you are above anybody else just because you signed up for 3 to 30 years than you are no better then the elite rich who look down upon the poor and middle class in this country!
Jeff Guymon
USA, Retired
im a veteran of iraq from 2003. i spent 6 months and 2 weeks over in the sandbox. i was in the invading force that secured iraq. i was in the 3rd ID. 1/3 ADA, 2nd platoon driver of a bradley linebacker fighting vehicle. when i returned i was given nothing as far as recognition for doing my job beyond the call of duty, not even the service stripe everyone should get, from my racist commander, captain “B” we will call him, rather than just putting his name out there like that. nevermind, f#@k him. it was capt branson. I have everything hanging on my class a’s that SHOULD be there. fuck bushs 2006 law. i was one hell of a supporter of my commander-in-chief, until i was screwed several times over by our “Great National Military” and the awe inspiring lack of any type of care from our VA
What company did she work for? For what they did we, as Vets, should boycott anything they do, and let them know why we are doing so..
I am with you James.
I think we should just find the main boss and beat his face in
If this law is toothless then anyone can wear any uniform they so choose. Expect people in the uniform of a Policeman/woman, Doctor, Airline Pilot, EMT, Nurse, Airport worker (TSA, Ground crews), and a few others that I’m sure are out there. But the real question is, “If We allow them to dress in this fashion, how long will it be before they try to act in that capacity?”
It’s a shame the company that fired her was a public utility in a state I don’t reside or I’d sure enough boycott them. Aren’t there whistleblower protection laws?????
As a service member currently in Afghanistan on a tour of duty, I think that it is the responsibility of our government to protect the honor of it’s service members by prosecuting any citizen attempting to gain false praise and glory by misrepresenting themselves as prior service members. These cases need to be thought of as a type of treason against the sacrifices of our service members now and in the past. If these cases are not handled in the proper manner, we as a nation could be sending the message to our service members of all branches that their service and sacrifices do not matter. That someone who has not made those sacrifices can easily attain the same dignity and respect in social situations. Furthermore if this continues to happen with no repercussions to the offender I would not be surprised if service members started to search out these offenders and confront them about the misrepresentation with some altercations ending in violence. Even as children we are taught to believe that being a soldier is an honorable thing, and that defending that honor and the honor of our country is the highest glory any soldier can ask for. So when I as a service member hear of citizens falsely representing themselves I ask why our government is so hesitant to do anything about it! We have fought for our country and paid our dues with our lives and our time. At what point does our government say that they will uphold to the standards that we ourselves have upheld to every time our country has called us to defend the same freedoms that these offenders mean to manipulate only for the betterment of themselves. I for one cannot say what the freedom of speech amendment entails or what it does not. But when a person represents themselves to be more than a common citizen, to have risen to the call of our great nation and is found out to be a liar, it is not well received. Time and time again our service members have been loyal and faithful to our nation and it’s values. Isn’t it about time that our government show us that we have earned the right to stand out among the rest, and that situations such as this will not go unpunished.
Very Respectfully,
Spc. Dixon Joshua
1022nd EN. CO.
Are you for friggin real? You are almost as embarrassing as Alvarez. If you only joined the military to gain respect in social situations, you are way out of your league, and your morals and values are way out of whack. Then you speak of service members searching them out and it somehow ending in violence. Really? We, as soldiers, are sworn to protect the people of the United States. Those of us that actually know the Army Values/Creed and live by them/it, this would never happen.
Then you go on to say that you have no idea what the freedom of speech amendment entails or doesn’t … REALLY!!! Why on Earth would you swear to lay down your life for something that you have no knowledge of. That’s assinine; and it is called the 1st Amendment and states “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.” So you, having sworn to protect this document and all that it stands for, should above all, be defending Alvarez. Of course, never having read the most important document, the law of our land, you wouldn’t know this.
Then you go on to claim that you are more than a common citizen because you are in the armed forces. You are ridiculous. You are just a common citizen as well. No better and no worse than anyone else, in uniform or not. If you had any honor, you would know that. I am a 100% disabled vet with multiple tours of duty, now retired, barely able to walk because of injuries I suffered in Iraq; I was in the regular Army 24/7. Since you are better than the “common citizen”, am I even better than you? I mean, after all, you are in a National Guard unit, from LA at that, you guys don’t train as much or as hard as we do, you only go in every now and then, don’t serve full tours…does that put me at a higher level than you? Do I deserve more respect than you?
Then you go on to ask “haven’t I earned the right to stand among the rest?” Again, are you kidding me? The rest of who? The CMO recipients? Did you earn one? Then the answer is no; but I can surely tell you that based upon your assinine statement above, no, you do not yet deserve to stand even amongst the most common of us. Every man, woman, and child, every animal, being, and form of life on this planet, is due equal respect, no matter their station or occupation. When you learn that, when you can live by that, then you can stand amongst us.
You can start by reading The Constitution of the united States and Declaration of Independence, the document you swore to give your life to protect, then you can learn the Army Values and the Soldier’s Creed again and learn to live by them.
Good luck and God bless. I pray you come home safely.
While your point about understanding what we, as military members, swore to protect and defend is valid, I would respectfully suggest that you keep that focused on the Constitution and not on Mr. Alvarez. None of us owe him, or any other liar, a defense. In fact, I am not aware of any branch of our armed forces that does not teach the values of honor, integrity and truthfulness. Whether one believes his conduct to be criminal or protected by the First Amendment, most military personnel do not abide his conduct and will certainly not defend him. That his lies claim something that so many gave their lives for only makes it worse.
Defend the Constitution? Without a doubt. Defend the actions of a brazen liar? No. That is not required by our oath to the Constitution.
Thank you for your service.
So how do you purport to defend the Constitution without defending someone’s right to “say” something? Because that is all the article says that he did. He told an event planner that he was awarded the MOH. So how far down the rabbit hole do you want to go? Haven’t we already learned that we are not willing to go that far? as in the case of the third grader who was expelled from school for having brought a 1 inch plastic GI Joe gun with him in his backpack. Truly, this child was obviously a dangerous criminal that needed to be stopped. So, if we prosecute Mr. Alvarez for having “said” something, no matter how offensive, will we then be prosecuting the small child who is simply repeating something their parents said… it is a slippery slope you are asking to go down. I do not defend Mr. Alvarez in any way, and were I to meet the man, I would tell him just how despicable he is, but I will defend his right to say it. Now if he is all dressed up with a chest full of medals, lying on applications, trying for financial gain, or anything else, then yes, he should indeed be prosecuted. The only defense I would offer is that of the laws.
We know where you have your head Heather, and I believe you are just on here spewing bullshit and looking for confrontation. According to your ramblings, it would be alright to adorn a limo with presidential flags to beat traffic. If in fact you were wounded and disabled in Iraq you have my deepest sympathy’s and I thank you for your service, but please don’t call another service members statements stupid. The law was passed during Bush’s terms and the man was found guilty of Stolen Valor law and the Supreme court should uphold it PERIOD.
I do not believe any VET on here has to be reminded of our oath.
…you have no idea where my head is obviously. This article only stated that he “said” that he was awarded the MOH. Not that he was going around wearing a full uniform and medals, applying for benefits, or ising it for other financial gain … only that he “said” it. Therefore, it would be right of the Supreme Court to throw this matter back to the State, the people. If he wearing the uniform, if he were doing anything other than simply “saying” he was awarded the MOH, then yes, the Stolen Valor Act would apply, and he should be prosecuted, PERIOD. Do you see the difference? And obviously, if this kid is going around stating that he’d like to get some of his buddies and go beat someone up for what they said, well, I guess some of us do need to be reminded of our oath.
There are consequences for actions. That is a law of nature. Yes, you can say whatever you like because you have freedom of speech but we also have laws and rules for defamation and slander. Alvarez defamed the award and slandered those that have been awarded it. If, as you state, you were 24/7 US Army and 20 year retiree (not medically retired with limited service) you would know better than to imply that anyone wearing the uniform, regardless of branch or status, is less than you (ie.
“National Guard unit, from LA at that…” because you are simply reinforcing your narrow mindedness and displaying your ignorance. Kind of makes me think that you are of the opinion that a reservist MOH recipient is less than US Army MOH recipient… additionally you are rather involved in your personal interpretation of US Constitution.
Comprehension 101 … that was exactly my point; and if you had actually read what I had written, you would know this, ie “Every man, woman, and child, every animal, being, and form of life on this planet, is due equal respect, no matter their station or occupation.” – and just to give you a little help, yes that includes divisions of the military as well. I worked with the 278 TN National Guard for six months in Kirkush and they were some of the finest soldiers, most knowledgeable people, I have ever worked with. Most of the Guard actually has an advantage in that what they do for a living in their every day lives is also their MOS, whereas, in the RA, there are not too many operators that can say they perform their job at any other time than when they are deployed. So try studying up on your reading and comprehension skills before you go telling people they are displaying ignorance…and yes, everyone should be involved, deeply, in the Constitution. I have carried a pocket Constitution on me almost every day of my life and it should mandatory for every soldier to do so as well.
Too bad Melissa Campbell was FIRED by Southern California Edison for reporting that creep.
Freedom of speech is just that freedom of speech. I think it is deplorable that someone would misrepresent themselves as a military member and or what they have done or not done.. However that is as old as war itself. If we say that a person should be prosecuted for lying about their military service, then how about lying on job applications (happens all the time, a person inflating their abilities); lying about infidelities, how many fish a person caught or how big the buck was the “got away.” People lie, for whatever reason they may have, but when we start prosecuting them for that, I thing it is a very slippery slope. Black lies, gray lies, little white lies, lies of omission. Let those amongst you who have NEVER lied (or stretched the truth, remember Bill Clinton?) cast the first stone.
Then it is okay for someone to claim they are a doctor, lawyer, policeman, judge, etc… Those are just little white lies. Is it okay to lie to investors and take their money. If it is we need to clear out the federal prison system of all the people convicted of fraud. It was just a little lie.
I dont think there is anything else I can add on here! As a 12 year Army Veteran and 1st Gulf War Combat Veteran I believe we do hold the highest Honor in this country. Nobody makes us raise our right hand, nobody makes us sign a contract, its inbedded in our roots to protect the Freedom of our country because of what our Parents taught us! My parents didnt bring me up to Lie, Cheat and Commit Fraud! Give those impersonators the max sentence as if they were impersonating a Peace Officer, Doctor or any other Title that is worn that you have to EARN!
ArmyFO1 ………HOOAHH!
I am prior military, I over heard a man bragging that he was in the Army and was awarded the purple heart. I walked up to him and said he was lying. Everyone at the table looked at me, and asked why I thought he was lying? I said because anyone who is in the military and has received that reward, does not ” brag” about it. So they all turned back to him and said well is she right? Yep come to find out he was never in the service to begin with. I hate that when people have to try and impress other people using the military to do so. Shame on them. And shame on that company for firing the women who called out not a hero but a coward.
If you lie about your service record. You should be charged with some crime, because of our service men have served. They are Honorable!!!!
It was a blatent lie, claiming recognition for something he didnt do or earn, It shames the Veterans who have given their lives and years of service willingly. If he wants his claim to fame, let it be in the Hall of Shame with a criminal record, for false representation. Her company should have recognised her exposing this fraud for what he was, and I see no defense in being able to say he had a rightto free speech, to cover a lie and misrepresent himself as. This matter needs attention and needs to be handled in a Criminal court to warn others of repeated like offenses.
I think he should be thrown under the jail. Those who sacrificed and did earn the right to wear the Medal of Honor should not have there memories tarnished due to some clown who claims he won it. Won it?? It is not a prize at a fair! What about the honor part? Where is the honor? I am a veteran, and this is so sick and disgusting to me.
Send the pretenders to JAIL. Bastards.
This guy is a jack@@#, for one thing true MOH receiver don’t go around say they have an MOH. They dont see themselves as heros, they see themselves as being in the right place to be able to help their Bubbies and friends out in a time of great need. If the feds dont want to do anything about this guy, put him in a room with a few real vets and I bet he will never wish he heard of the MOH. I know this sounds kind of violent, but I am tired of hearing about people getting away with this kind of crap. AS for Ms. Campbell, her former employer really screwed the pouch on this one. A lot of times a company is lucky to have employees with integrity like hers.
David D Lammers BMC(EOD) USN Retired
David, please, please, please, violence IS a form of communication!
If the Supreme Court strikes this down, then anyone will be able to say that they are a policeman, doctor, lawyer, Judge, or anything else they want to claim to be. Without fear of punishment. Time for the courts to act with honor and uphold this law. I have a shitty brother-in-law that claimed to be a Vietnam vet suffering from PTSD to get jobs. He never served a day in the military.
Whats his name Ill fuck his bitch ass up 1833 AAV Crewman 2nd MARDIV 2nd AAV Bn B Co 2nd Plt 3rd section i was a LCpl and i got medsepped from iraq 3 months in I have tennitis PTSD insomnia and sleepapnia. Id love to take me and my buddy to go whoop his ass
Really? You are nothing but an embarrassment to the core. You took an oath to protect the Constitution and the People of the United States, and yet you’d love to take yourself and your buddy to “go whoop his ass”. SMDH
Really Heather? To the core? How about to the Corps? I agree that he’s out of line, but use the right terms?
Actually, I wrote exactly what I meant; as in the core of everything the military, not just the Marines, stands for; the beliefs of this country, the core of the Constitution itself, etc., as in rotten to the core ….
Okay, I’ll give you a pass on this one, quick thinking
He’s just echoing what many of s Vets feel internally. It’s not just a dishonor to those currently in uniform, but undervalues efforts and sacrifices of all the Vets that came before us- of the heroes known and unknown that came before us. These medals represent a high sense of accomplishment, Integrity, and in the Case of the Medal of Honor(s) (both presidential and congressional) the highest act of selfless service to Fellow Service members, Our country, and the Service.
I agree with Heather and that is the way I read it. I think she chose the correct words. Could go either way though.
Heather: That’s “Corps”…get it right please.
CORE???? WTF?
The core ??? You mean the Corps ? I served 6 years in the United States Marine Corps. I have pride in that fact, even though I have some bitterness toward how I and all service members where treated during the years I served. (1975-1979 /1982-1984)
…another agenda to lessen the sacrifices of those who have served our great nation faithfully and honorably. Precursor to degeneration towards a nationalized defense force with zero benefits for “all volunteer” force that looks more like a juvenile detention camp that poses no threat of a coup and can be countered by a national police force. Oh wait, just looking at this piece and not the big puzzle as a whole, the bottom line is that stolen valor is wrong…period…end of discussion.
As a 24 year military veteran I dont even feel compelled to answer this…. All common sense has left liberal America.
Another Mexican wanting to claim something that isn’t rightfully theirs like their illegal counterparts that come here in droves and take advantage of our benefits.
my husband was a true hero he has lots of medals he died in combat in vietnam i keep those treasures in a shadow box in my home it is disgraceful for someone who has never served in the armed forces to obtain or wear the medals of honor shame on them hooray to mis campbell for what she did and shame on her company for firing her what has the usa come to when it upholds liars and cheats and disgraces true american heroes
False pretenses is the game here. The person while may have been a Marine did not receive the Medal of Honor. Shall we also talk about one Marine who said he made it to the rank of Full Bird Colonel who in fact was not and was only an Enlisted member whom also did not receive all the awards and commendations that he wore upon his chest? If you write a check and try to cash it as someone else do you not get arrested for falsifying documentation? Do you not get arrested if you write a false police report? These are the same terms here.
As a memeber of the armed forces, it is my duty and solemn vow to protect the Constitution of the United States. The first amendment clearly states: “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.” Our government was wrong to have ever signed S. 1998 … it is that simple; therefore it would be wrong for the USSC to support it in any way shape or form.
The damage done to the very fabric of our Nation is much more so than that inflicted by this “small” and inconsequential individual. Yes, what he did is despicable, however, he did no harm other than to embarrass himself and piss some people off. He wasn’t wearing a uniform, carrying around someone elses medal, lying for substantial gain, he did not defame anyone or commit financial fraud or otherwise. He was probably just trying to “score”.
Those who earned the medal displayed extraordinary bravery, and most died doing so. They deserve our uttmost respect and honors. Part of that is in keeping our oaths to protect the Constitution, no matter how offensive. We MUST not continue to go beyond except in cases of the most destructive speech.
There are websites operated by the Congressional Medal of Honor Society, Military Times and others that have complete listings of all recipients of the CMO and other medals as well. The surest cure for offensive speech is said to be more speech, and it is true. Government censorship is a slippery slope and ground is rarely, if ever, recovered from it, and prosecution is simply not the answer. It would have been simple enough to out this “schmuck” and publicly humiliate him. Justice would have been served, Melissa Campbell, who has obviously never read the document that she swore to lay down her life for, could have reported it anonymously and kept her job, and the state and federal governments would have kept all the money for legal fees and been able to put it to better use.
Of course, maybe something good will come out of all of this, and the Stolen Valor Act (S. 1998) will be repealed and possibly re-written to actually protect the people.
So you mean to tell me its O.K. to fire a true Veteran because they exposed a fake Veteran…So if a real Doctor exposes a fake Doctor, it would be O.K. to fire the real Doctor because the real Doctor infringed upon the fake Doctor’s constitutional rights. I think that people in higher management are just that, HIGH on DRUGS!!
No, it is not ok that they fired Miss Campbell, and she has legal recourse; and if that fake doctor is doing anything other than saying he is a doctor, then he is committing a crime; and just as in the case of Miss Campbell, no it would not be ok to fire the real doctor. You have to remember, Alvarez did nothing more than “say” he was a CMO recipient and he was not doing it for any other reason that probably trying to “score” with Miss Campbell.
Campbell was right in what she did. Veterans are to be held in high esteem. Is it right to claim you have a doctor’s degree when you don’t. Do you want someone practicing when they aren’t certified. Veterans should be given the respect they deserve and claiming that you are a veteran when you aren’t is wrong. Serve your country and then you can hold that honor of being a veteran. Having a medal in your possession may not be wrong if you are not a veteran, but claiming you are a veteran when you aren’t is wrong. Don’t think the company that let her go because of this is worth much.
Perjury is perjury, It should be punishable by law. The company she worked for IS WRONG also.
Perjury: noun, plural -ries. Law. the willful giving of false testimony under oath or affirmation, before a competent tribunal, upon a point material to a legal inquiry.
Heather, you struck the crux of the issue here IMHO. Many of my fellow soldiers came back from VN a mess, only to be further insulted by a spiteful and ungrateful nation upon their return home. I don’t commend or rage against someone who claims, say, a CAR award when their MOS was inconsistent with combat, for example. We all knew BS’ers in the service, yet we served, every one of us. Most all of us wanted to do more, when faced with the casualty rate we experienced, but if the cooks, paper junkies, material handlers and support staff were not there behind us, we could not have conducted our operations effectively. Key here: ‘under oath’, as you note. We are hardest on ourselves and i fully expect to get a belly-full of it upon this posting. For all you brothers and sisters once in-arms. I salute you all. We did our part ……. now I wish you all peace.
we have to defend our nation’s heroes! These guys had to sacrifice so much of their “normal living” to defend this country. Those that misrepresent the U.S. military should be punished .
I served my Country in the U.S. Air Force from 1981 to 2002. I am a Gulf War Veteran and I retired with an Honorable discharge. I have never considered myself a “Hero” for I see “Heroes” as those that gave their lives or limbs to protect our rights and freedoms as our forefathers have given us.
If the U.S. Supreme Court finds that freedom of speech is going to allow people to lie about possessing the highest honor given to the members of the U.S. Armed Forces.
I remind them that those who have served by exemplifying the best of us, the majority of them have received the Medal of Honor posthumously.
Very Well said Sir!
IT IS A TERRIBLE SHAME THAT MANY PEOPLE HAVE NO HONOR OR INTEGRITY, AND WOULD LIE ABOUT ANYTHING. YOU CANT STOP THESE TYPE OF PEOPLE FROM LYING. PERHAPS THEY HAVE NEVER DONE ANYTHING GOOD AND TRUE THAT THEY COULD BE PROUD OF. MAYBE THEY LIVE IN A DREAM WORLD IMAGINING THEY ARE SOMEONE THEY ARE NOT. THEY COULD BE LIARS AND THIEVES WHO WANT TO CASH IN ON SOME BENEFIT THEY DONT DESERVE, OR AS I SAID THEY COULD BE LIVING IN A DREAM WORLD THINKING THEY ARE NOT HURTING ANYONE WITH THEIR STORY. WHO KNOWS? MELISSA CAMPBELL WAS JUSTIFIED IN CALLING OUT ALVEREZ AS A FRAUD. WHAT WOULD YOU EXPECT FROM A MARINE WHO HAD SERVED VALIENTLY AND KNEW PEOPLE WHO HAD GIVEN THEIR LIVES AS MARINES IN THE SERVICE OF OUR COUNTRY? SHOULD SHE HAVE ROLLED OVER AND KEPT HER MOUTH SHUT? WHEN SHE REPORTED ALVAREZ SHE WAS STANDING UP FOR EVERY MILITARY PERSON WHO GAVE THEIR LAST FULL MEASURE OF DEVOTION. MY HUSBAND IS RETIRED USAF,AND A VIET NAAM VETERAN.
I think it is a crime for people to lie about their military service or for receiving medals they do not earn and should be prosecuted. My father and step father both served in the military and were rewarded with their medals, though not with the medal of honor. I am very proud of both of them.
I agree with Ms. Campbell, she did the right thing. I am just a little (LOT) biased about this I served 23 and 1/2 yrs in the United States Marine Corps!
A lie is a lie, it has nothing to do with free speach and should always be punished. Let the Truth be known but keep your lies to yourself, It may come back to Haunt you. If you knowingly Lie on a resume or in a speach, what does that say about your integrity? (Or doesn’t that matter anymore?)
It a disgrace for a person to claim to win any medal esp.the cmh to impress someone,,I. Hope they put his ass in jail.
to carlecook…..This is what i am talking about,,,,Jail there A **.
Bufaloo always, HOORA
I am an honorably discharged veteran of Desert Storm. In my opinion the constitutional right to freedom of speech was put in place so citizens could voice OPINIONS on civil and legal issues without fear of repercussion. That would NOT cover DELIBERATE MISREPRESENTATION of what anyone else has said, hence libel and slander charges. In the case cited, he is making a false statement that an entity of our military has cited him for Valor above and beyond the call of duty! My opinion is that he should serve some punitive sentence comensurate with the severity of his crime! He has falsely claimed a status that would in perpetuity entitle him to utilize military services, privileges, and facilities, not to mention defferential treatment! We have a few MOH winners still alive with us today. Would you want this liar and cheat to enjoy the same status? I am outraged that he appears to be getting away with it! It diminishes the value of the service rendered by real MOH winners! Well over 50 percent of real winners died in the acts for which they were cited!
You are right in that the 1st Amendment ONLY covers cases of seditious libel, therefore, any power not specifically granted to the Congress is left to the People (aka the state). So when this case gets to the Supreme Court, the only thing they can do, legally, is to read the constitution, perhaps take into account Federalist no. 84, and rule that the S. 1998 is indeed unconsititutional. If you think that verbally lying about military service should be a crime, then you need to democratically propose a law, within the region in which you live, to make it punishable by law. Until you have done so, and until someone has then spoken such a lie, within that area, no crime has been committed. According to this article, he wasn’t applying for any benefits, he wasn’t trying to “get” anything except perhaps “laid” by Miss Campbell. Is it a despicable act? … yes. Is it way less than honorable? … yes; but he did no harm other than to offend another individual. Now if he puts on a uniform, wears one of the medals, carries one around with him and states that it is his, lies on an application, forges, commits financial fraud, etc., well those are crimes that he can be prosecuted for. Other than that, there are watchdog groups, made up of private citizens, publications, etc. that stand at the ready to absolutely humiliate anyone who tries this sort of thing. Simply stated, this man recieved enough attention nationwide, that no matter where he goes, he will be known as dishonorable, his reputation is destroyed, no one will trust him. That is the punishment, there need be no more for this type of offense other than to maybe write to the 130 or so living recipients of the Medal of Honor and apologize to them directly.
Do you not think that defying the Constitution of the United States, you know, that document we all swore to give our lives to protect from enemies foreign and domestic, also diminishes the value of the service rendered by the Medal of Honor recipients?
You are “outraged that he appears to be getting away with it!”; I am outraged that you would so willing throw away the Constitution of the United States, the document you swore to give your life to protect, just because someone “offended” you. As an honorably discharged veteran of Desert Storm, a member of the US military, I would think you had tougher skin than that … but evidently not.
Heather, give it a rest okay! as I have read down the postings all you have done is protect the SOB. HIS FREEDOM OF SPEECH! REMEMBER YOUR OATH! We do, and for that reason and time served se find him to be reprehensible foul human. I do not think you served in sixties and seventies when we were told NOT to wear our uniforms off base, Not to travel in uniform. You see we served when the military was looked down upon as “babykillers” et al. So our sense of what is right and wrong may be a little different than yours. Does he have the right to claim he won the MOH.. well he can try..but we also have the right to do things about it ..nothing violent mind you but to keep reminding him that he is a lying pice of human refuse that does not deserve to breath. As far as the Constitution….well the current jackal in the white house seems to have a whole different interpitation than we do.
As a vet, I see lying about military service & decorations earned (because they are damn-well earned!), portraying one’s self as a decorated vet is just the same as lying and claiming to be a Law Enforcement Officer, a Doctor, a Lawyer. I bet if these scumbags started telling everyone they were lawyers & judges it would be a different story! Of course, the present illegal Alien-in-chief & all his liberal cronies do hate the military, so I can guess what the outcome of this challenge will be, unfortunately. Lying, cheating & stealing is condoned, encouraged & suported by the present gov’t. I certainly would like the name of Ms. Cambell’s former employer, though, so I could tell them my opinion of them for supporting a lying cheat over an honest vet!
You know what most people who have been awarded the MOH were killed for having huge cajones and making sure their brothers were taken care of. Id love to kill this guy and give him an award of my own though he doesnt rate. I’d award him the shit from my ass and make sure he got it posthumously.
As I said … an embarrassment.
I do not like BOGUS Veterans or BOGUS Heros. I served 20 plus in the United States Army, I did 2 plus tours in Vietnam and several tours in other countries and several forts in the United States. I did a Recruiting tour in Muskogee Ok also. After Retiring, I went to work for a major manufacturing company in Houston Texas and there were several people there that were what I Called BOGUS Vets, one was a retired Sailor, that kept claiming he was a Vietnam Vet. He had never served in Vietnam, he had never touch ground in Vietnam, his ship had sailed within a hundred miles of Vietnam and drew combat pay for being within 100 miles of Vietnam. Now this is wrong for those people to claim to being a Vietnam Vet.
So you were a cook in the army and you were so brave..whats your combat experience…very few of those people who get combat pay are in a fire fight..recruters please! this was your combat duty..REAL VETERANS DONT ATTACK OTHER VETERANS
WHO is the company that fired her? Does anybody have the company’s Name, address, contact link, telephone number? email wddress? Please share the info with us.
Southern California Edison … you’ll get a much better picture of the wtory here : http://weaponsman.com/?p=1509
What company was it that fired U.S. Marine Campbell. I, as well as other Americans would like to know, so that we do no business with them, their affiliates, or even their customers?
To claim an act of valor or service is no less than spitting on the grave of a military veteran. This act is a crime and is no way related to free speech. Free speech protects a persons right to give his or her opinion as well as present true facts without censorship. If I falsify information for my own benefit, that crime is punishable by imprisonment and is a lesser crime than benefiting financially or publicly for an act of bravery that was not rendered. In addition, the individuals who fired a Marine for living up to her oath ( Military Veterans are bound by this oath until death) should be in the process of owning the company that fired her, any honorable lawyer would represent her for free.
As a Vietnam Veteran, I would like to offer a solution to this issue – anyone who wrongfully claims to have been awarded military medals for their service, particularly those of valor, should immediately be drafted into the branch of the Armed Forces that they are falsely bragging about. From there, they would be trained appropriately and sent to the current combat zone (we always seem to have one going). It would afford them the opportunity to gain the medals for real. The negative here is that they would end of serving with those who have volunteered so proudly. But at least those lying braggarts would understand what they are talking about. The other thing that I would be interested in is learning the name of this feckless company this is, like so many others here. Boycotting their enterprise would be a fitting result of their actions. This is obviously a company who supports the left side of the aisle. Mr. Alvarez might have gotten his idea from one of our sitting senators. If you haven’t ever read the book, “Unfit for Command,” perhaps it’s time. Do any of you real veterans know of ANYONE who ever wrote his own recommendations for military awards?
AMEN Cheeseguys! The name of the company should be released to the public, especially since both names were. Maybe there if we filed for a copy of the charges under the release of information act, we could find out and make it known to all. I know that our military would boycott…active, reserved and retired. And there are how many millions of military supporters?
Liberal court cares nothing about TRUE HEROS so will now strike down ANOTHER law that is DEMANDED by VAST MAJORITY of citizens. Besides NOT A ONE of these chicken crap judges have EVER SERVED their country.
While it is a shame on the character of Mr Alvarez, lying about the MOH in itself is in itself free speech! If in Fact he had anything to gain as a result of the lie then I would hope that both the Letter and Spirit of the Law would find him guilty of theft and certainly view him as a deceptive piece of Sh*&T for making it in this World on the BACKS of men who have given everything for this man to have the freedom to disobey Gods 2 Commandments. NO LIE NO STEAL!
It shouldn’t be in the court, he should be shot
Prison or jail time for is a little harsh for representing yourself as a winner of an award for valor not earned. The embaressment for being caught is should be enough. If you use it for some type of financial or political gain then it should be punishable by some sort.
I don’t feel his right to free speech was violated in the least. He wasn’t called out for speaking, he was called out for the act of misrepresenting himself as a military man who earned the Medal of Honor….and, they need to send him to a Marine base and let the CO of the base deal with him, since he wants to be military so bad. A good old fashioned Courts Martial would do him a world of good! How dare him declare that he earned the prestigious Medal of Honor! Only our Heroes earn that medal….and this chump is NOT A HERO.
To those who fired Ms Campbell: You should be ashamed and she should sue them for everything she can! Does this follow under the “Whistle blower law”? Even if not, she should have a means of redress to report how unfair the company acted.
I am a retired Navy MCPO, and I would have called him out too. This whole deal is just wrong and Alvarez should receive the maximum punishment allowed by law! Ms Campbell should be rewarded, NOT FIRED!
The guy who fired her has email and the address is: Ron.Litzinger@sce.com;
I suggest we flood him with email!!!!
Considering Ms. Campbell is a former Marine she not only done the right thing but the Morals and the code of the Corps. Once a Marine always a Marine. So the code of ethics says she can not and will not let something like this slide. she worked for Southern California Edision. Google it and you know who to boycott.
I notice you did not mention the company? Why so? These are the kind of REMF’s that need to have their collective noses rub in it? Post it and suggest that maybe we (vets) should maybe bypass their products in the future?
I think it is criminal and should be a misdemeanor offense punishable by 100 hours community service at a veteran’s treatment facility or wounded warrior center. Jails are over crowded, and these centers always need helping hands!
For the most part, liberals do NOT respect the military or honor their accomplishments. It is a travesty that Ms Campbell was fired for telling the truth. I hope that she finds something better. As for those who valued the liar’s feelings more than her admirable actions, I hope they get carjacked and kidnapped by terrorists. Then, they can wait for “Heroes” like Alvarez to come and rescue them.
We had a guy that went home on leave from afganistan to get married , well when he did and posted pics up on his Facebook of his wedding all the people that he was friends with saw all the medals he was wearing , he wore the army cross afew purple hearts and a few other high medals well needless to say when he got back to afganistan the whole company gave this guy a rash of shit and he’s still getting it but in all reality for this guy he was busted down from E4 to E3 and that’s it
I am married to a Retired USAF man who would never ever do such a thing. My youngest son is in the ARMY who is quite good at a lot of different things, but he is an HONEST MILITARY MAN WHO WOULD NEVER “BUY” AN UNDESERVED MEDAL. MY FAMILY = PUNISHABLE BY LAW
Ms, Campbell was correct in doing what she did – and should not have been fired for standing up for our hero’s of All wars. The false claims by Xavier Alvarez should have been in every paper and made him look the FOOL that he is, and all of his engagements should have been canceled at that time.
Free Speech does not give you the right to take credit for something that someone else has done, and claim it as your own.
It is already a crime to impersonate any Military Office, then why not their awards too?
If her boss had been in the Military and had won some of those medals, than I bet he would have felt differently about it.
I Pray that Ms Campbell gets a better job with a better boss.
Ms Campbell was royal screwed over; Alvarez should never get any kind of recognition or retain the job he was seeking. He violated the rights of so many others that provide his rights. He is no better than criminals at large daily here in the US, it is only a matter of time before they all succumb to the deeds.
I think you guys have already gotten the topic covered, it is to easy for people pretend to be veterans and receive the respect without having to earn it. Most veterans I know don’t brag about there service
Alvarez was wrong and deserves punishment for defaming MOH and slandering recipients. Ms. Campbell should call dept of labor on unjust firing for telling the truth. Be advised there are a couple of tools posting you should not bother to engage. Heather would have to read her ROE while taking SAF for COA out of fear of 1506, and Micheal Evans(?) cannot count as I served in Iraq with a Vietnam Veteran. These things are self-evident and violate the laws of nature…Essayons!
Martha Stewart went to federal prison for LYING. Doesn’t the law apply equeally to all? According to the judges in this case, lying is a federal offense.
Stolen Valor should be a crime punishable by very serious penalties. // There were approximately 2.8 million men and women that touched the ground in Vietnam and about 12 million people running around the U.S.A. claiming they were one of them. // Some of these phonies weren’t even in the military. Other phonies were in the military but not in Vietnam. There are all kinds of people going to the VA and claiming disability benefits for Agent Orange and/or PTSD that were not even in Vietnam. This bogs down the system and makes it harder for those that actually deserve disability benefits.
When I first heard this, I thought it was the military who fired her for reporting him. Although it is small comfort, I am glad to read the whole story and to know it was a private company who fired her, and not the U S military who wanted this act in the first place! This company’s refusing to comment on their firing of Ms. Campbell is consistent with their firing her – no courage! They know they are wrong and don’t want to face a public grilling for it! Didn’t stand by her and now don’t want to stand by their won decision and defend it to questioners!
Studys show about 91% of Veterans lie about thier experiences while in the service..”SHOW ME A GUY THAT RUNS AROUND WITH A COMBAT HAT ON AND I WILL SHOW YOU A LIAR” i HAVE hEAD INJURYS FROM NAM AND CAN NOT GET THE TRUTH OUT OF THE V.A. IF YOU HAVE TO BRAG YOU NEED NOT OF SERVERED IN THE FIRST PLACE..Some people have paid the price for Freedom..Some have not Like Carl Rowe 5 defferments BUSH who did not show up for duty Chenny 4 defferments “THANKS DEMOCRATS FOR LARGEST VETERANS DISABLED AND ACTIVE DUTY PAY RAISE IN HISTORY” If you started attacking OUR PRESIDENT THE MIN HE WAS ELECTED YOU ARE A TRAITOR NO MATTER WHAT YOUR COMBAT ROLE!!!!!!
Bearing false witness is number 9 of our God Given Ten Commandments which was the foundation in establishing this country by our fore fathers. Why would our High Court waffle on this item unless they think these commandments our obsolete like President Obama thinks our Constitution is.
The company that fired her, should also be ‘shamed’ for supporting a lying piece of sh#t. I hope she files a lawsuit against the company and the p.o.s.
In my own tour in the box, I worked like many other soldiers tirelessly hours upon hours with no sleep, in the worst of conditions. At the end of my tour I got a pat on shoulder and a handshake. While other higher ranking soldiers who managed a desk while others were in harms way received high awards, and medals. It is really unbelievable the level of dishonesty amongst soldiers. It is completely understandable that a lot of vets lie, mainly because they feel they deserve something for whatever reason. But any military service member of any branch is taught that your honor and integrity as a member of the united states military is the only thing that can never be taken from you. It’s sad to see this sort of thing happen.
This makes no sense, if he lies about getting the MOH, what else will he lie about? He should be proud of any service he did, should’nt have to lie about what medals he recieved, but we all know what this is really about..MONEY and GREED!! Probably trying to capitalize on some scheme…
Hum,so under the freedom of speak law i could also claim to be a doctor,or an attorney,or a law enforcement officer,even though to do so is illegal,this sounds more like discrimination to me,look at the last names,i would love to know the name of the company that fire Ms. Campbell for reporting a crime within her company,Ms. campbell seems to be the only profesional there an i honestly feel they should be boy cotted.
Melissa Campbell is my mom, and the mother f**ker was lying in order to gain he used his lies to get to the position he was on in his job and my mother was fired for doing what was right, he told all sorts of stories about his multiple medals and jobs he had in the Marine Corps and other stories most of which were scenes from a movie that lying sack of $hit, my entire family besides my grandmas have served in the military including me. I’m ranting please excuse my grammar and runon sentences but this a$$hole has affected my family and I’m pi$$ed but my mom being the strong women she is has found a better job and is happy she was not looking for recognition, or anything of the sort and was doing what she felt was right. Bravo Zulu to my mom for doing what’s right
BZ to your Mom. She is a great American. Thank you and your family for your service and sacrifice for our great Country. ETC(SS) USNR-ret
Since He Said he is a Medal of Honor winner He Should be dropped of behind enemy lines near the Taliban and be told to use the same actions which earned him said Medal Of honor to get out safely.
MSgt USMC-RET
i am a firm believer in free speech. But to claim free speech to justify a medal you did not earn is despicable. It brings dishonour to the US Military. And it makes not only this liar look bad, but the entire military. I think the Manual for Courts Martial might have something in it about this. I think the article said the guy was a former Marine. I say we figure out how to punish him under the rules in the MCM, then let him rot in Leavenworth.
So, how was his freedom of speach stepped on? He stepped on every military veteran and especially those who were decorated for their bravery when he lied about his record if he even has a military record. The 9th circuit court needs to have every judge thrown out. They are legislating from the bench and that is uncontsitutional!
The company that Ms. Campbell used to work for needs to be exposed just as Mr. Alvarez was. When that gets out honorable people can stop doing business with them.
I have read the comments; now having served in Vietnam two tours 66’67’68′ with The 9th Inf. Div. the one award of mine that means anything that I have is my CIB..not all the campaign awards or valor awards . the way I look at it is the PH is a marksmanship medal for the enemy.. I do not know any of us who intentionally went out to get a medal , OH except John Kerry but we Swift Boated his sorry ass. The saying when we got home was the meddles and a Quarter would get you a cup of coffee… The medals of my war and those of today’s war for some level were given for yes true heroism but in many cases PR for the government . When I read the citations of some of our hero’s of WW1 and WW2 I am really impressed. it is like the meaning is getting watered down each generation. The twin Towers had 3000 victims not 3000 hero’s. gets back to the new age shit of everyone should get a ribbon for participation. As for the sorry SOB who has such low value he needs to fake being a hero I just feel sorry for him not anger for he is still a pathetic wimp.
You can’t say you’re doctor if you’re not right? You can’t say your police officer, putting on a uniform and running around saying people are under arrest can you? That’s a violation of free speech too if we say y0u can’t do that right? Can you say “BOMB!” in a theater? no, why? Because it’s not right. It’s not right to misrepresent an ideal or a profession. Anyone who tells others they are a former this or former that, and claim to have earned a title or a medal or a degree or a right to uphold the law is misrepresenting an ideal, a profession. Telling others a lie is not illegal, but telling others you earned something with value, like being a cop, a doctor or even a Marine is a gross misrepresentation and can add harm. People who have not served as a cop, a doctor or a Marine expect them to be professionals. Professing to be one of those, or anyone else you are not, misrepresents the whole profession, especially if you act irresponsibly. Every time some idiot does something bad, illegal or immoral and does it under the banner of a profession people think “gosh, is that what that college is about?, is that what Marines are like? is that how cops act?” So lying about a past profession is never a good idea, not for doctors, cops, Marines or any profession, it needs to stop, it erodes our trust.
Ms. Campbell did the right thing and was slapped in the face for it. Her company should be made to pay for their stupid, unpatriotic behavior in not supporting her. In the military service you do not win medals like they do at the Olympics. Your conduct, behavior, skills, persistence, and acts are evaluated and you are awarded medals based on the results of that evaluation. The medals that are awarded generally represent some performance on your part that was above and beyond normal expectations. You worked hard and were rewarded. People who falsely claim that they received one or more awards are frauds and need to be punished for diminishing the work that the service members did who legitimately received the award. This is not unlike a car company claiming that their car gets 100mpg when it in fact only gets 25mpg. The car company would be sued, fined and probably driven out of business for its mis-representations. Bottom line lying is not freedom of speech, although our politicians seem to think so. Perhaps the leaders of this country need to stand up and be counted for where they stand on integrity and accountability and set the trend to bring this country back to being as strong as it was.
I would be ashamed to wear awards that I didn’t earn!
Cpl A.J.Rico a Vietnam Vet
I am totally astonished at the infighting, arguing, name calling and nonsense on here! VETS disparging each other over proper/technical names of medals, names, ranks, spelling, grammar and even typos! Give me a break. You guys are not a solution, you’re part of the problem because you’re fighting amongst yourselves. What a waste when the energy should be directed in the right direction. And, yeah, I know, now I’ll be trashed, too. To keep it simple, YEAH, I am am a Vietnam ERA vet. Served with no particular valor, never in any combat, and did my job. So, all you who think you make yourselves look better by denigrating others – go for it!
OK, as a service member im going to throw my brown bullshit flag on every other service member having a pissing contest about what ribbons and medals they did or did not earn here. We are service members….period. The article in question is about a sad sack who IS not, nor WAS not a service member wearing and claiming to have the things you people are he-hawing over.
freedom of speech plain and simple everyone needs to wake up government is destroying our freedoms.laws aganist words there just words hes a douche bag but hes still our douche bag i would give my life for any american cause thats what a solider sailer marine or airman does is stands and fights for those simple rights i will tell one thing the politics go out the dame window when that bullet or rpg goes between you and your battle buddy WAKE UP AMERICA OUR POLTICANS ARE PISSING ON OUR FREEDOMS.
Unfortunately, it is his right to say such lies if he wishes. Nothing is in the Constitution that states otherwise. Even though I am a veteran myself, I still have to see that if they pass this kind of law for the military, who’s to say they won’t go even farther with it. Included later could be companies, small businesses, and even working for the state government!!! I am all for Honor, Courage, and Commitment, but I also served to protect the rights of idiots and liars that live in this country as well. God bless America!!!!!!
I was a Marine during the Vietnam war and I’ve run across people that have made claims much like the case above of the conviction of Xavier Alvarez and to think that Ms Campbell was fired for reporting the offense for this man without any honor, this is what it comes down to, there is no honor in a person that will make false claims of serving in any military, regardless of which one. All members of each service has brought honor to themselves and to the Military in which they served. As for Mr Xavier Alvarez, he has brought dishonor to himself and our country and he has dishonored all the men and woman that have served their country in an honorable fashion.
The Guy that lied I think should do jail time. If he can get away with it, imagine how many more “fakes” are out there. But they should not have fired her for blowing the whistle on him. Has the military sank so low that it lets this happen? Such a disappointment.
WHAT ABOUT HIS DD-214?
That is a clear violation of his right of speech! I’m a retired veteran myself, but still have an issue with the government making a gesture also a crime! This is getting way out of hand, this is supposed to be a free nation, but everyday more stupid laws keep getting passed, which hinder our freedoms!
How do we expose a person that claims they are highly decorated with silver stars, purple hearts and such. He is going around the George Whalen VA and representing the above. How can we verify and put a stop to it.
Chesty
First of all, thank you, Soldiers and all members of our armed troops and Veterans. You are awesome. I did want to ask how President Obama gets blamed for a Supreme Court decision, especially a Supreme Court with highly conservative stances that are in the majority and appointed by George W. Bush? Furthermore, if you want to know where a trial/hearing went wrong, you have to follow it from the beginning. Yes, we all know it is wrong to lie; @ it is especially egregious to claim service to our country when you have not. This is most disconcerting and offensive to our trooos who were and still are, in fact, in harm’s way. However, if one starts prosecuting everyone who lies, former President George W. would be in very serious trouble. In fact, even Romney, who impersonated a state police officer on many occasions to harass drivers for his own recreational delight, right down to the official uniform, badge and car lights/sirens, would be incarcerated for years, since each act was, by law, a felony! We should be very careful concerning the creation of new laws that dictate morality. Furthermore, I am so proud of our armed troops that I would love to have a souvenir, like a medal. I would be honored; but I wouldn’t pretend I served. That’s the difference. I wouldn’t want it to be against the law to have these, but these shouldn’t be misused. Finally, President Obama does care about the troops; and wants to bring our service members home safe. If you want to blame anyone for the loss of benefits/programs for Soldiers/Veterans, look no further than the voting records of Republican politicians. Please get the facts. And First Lady Michelle Obama has sponsored many causes herself to improve the lives of Veterans, especially to improve the treatment of PTSD, TBI, @ SCI. I do not know from where those who think Obama is the source of rheir ills; but I hope you get the facts before you vote Nov. 6, or there will be serious consequences most everyone but the 1 or 2%.
I suppose I am hesitant to support new laws that inhibit freedoms when the ones on the books are not enforced fairly. I see the problem with this attitude; (for new laws/bills help move our country forward if done with the consideration of “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness); and I’m working on it, nor is my attitude or beliefs and perhaps, biases caused by the Obama Administration or any other Democrat. Just need to say this ’cause they are receiving a lot of unfair criticism, that has no truthful foundation. Regardless, perhaps it does need to become a felonious infraction. I understand how uoset I would be if I served, while another took credit for serving fraudulently. God bless you all. America loves you so!
The girl should not have been fired but honored for stsnding up for that in which she believes. This is a proper example of the first ammendment and acting upon it.
Sorry about typos, missing words…I was in a hurry and can’t type on a cellphone very well. Embarrassing!
Freedom of speech should not mean freedom to lie.
To say that one’s been in the military, is to make a statement that will gain respect and appreciation from the general public, generally. To mis-state one’s service record, to embellish, or deliberately misrepresent oneself, say, as a ‘war hero’, when the most dangerous thing you encountered was a tent pole, which while potentially lethal is benign compared to risking one’s life under direct enemy fire, is a form of deliberate fraud. Such fraud is often difficult to disprove, as verification of military service often requires lengthy administrative actions, reference and research within the military records system which, depending on priority, might take years. Yet, some people have and will continue to put another layer of polish on top of a less-than-stellar military record, in hopes of gaining public office or recognition from an employer, or potentially with the express intention to defraud the military benefits system in some way. Not all people in this world are ramrod-straight and honest, and some of these not-honest people have managed to pass the recruiter’s office and integrate themselves into the military and back out again, over the years. Identifying such fraud and misrepresentation is not easy, is not cheap, and is not a foolproof process, either.
I
thought I posted this earlier, but can’t find it ………….so = the
times have changed drastically since the VN war ….. it was ‘duck and cover’
when we came home. I didn’t speak to anyone about my tours there, not even to
others who I knew had served (not even my brother, who was there at
the same time, nor did he ever bring it up).
My
daughter was 32 years old when she discovered an old photo of me in
battle dress. Neither she nor her mother knew that I was in the service, and I
realized I was living a lie (thanks to the VA for helping me resolve this). So,
maybe I should be prosecuted for misrepresentation?
I
don’t condone this mans lies, but it is a 360 degree issue ….. where do we
draw the line, and at what point do we breach ‘freedom of speech’?
I
salute my real brothers and sisters once in arms out there ………. and wish
you all peace of mind and spirit.
Someone with influence needs to help Melissa Campbell get her job back. She has integrity. Xavier Alvarez is a liar and a weiny. // Not only did they fire the one with integrity but they fired the one that actually served her country. // As a combat medic with the 25th Infantry Division during Vietnam 1967, I find this to be OUTRAGEOUS //
Most of our nation’s Judges have no military experience, much less ever seen any action. As a war veteran “Having earned” several citations, I feel sick that people can lie about having “earned” the highest honer bestowed on any US citizen, and get away with it. I would also like to know the name of the organization that fired Ms. Campbell, so I can lead a campaign against them. As far as I’m concerned, they DO NOT deserve to have Ms Campbell in their staff. However they need to recognize the reason they are able to exercise free enterprise.
String them up that is a dishonor to all vets. My Grandfather WW1 Army, 2 Uncles Korea Army, my Dad & his Brother Cuban Missle Crisess Army, 2 Cusins Navy SeeBees Vietnam, Cusin Navy SeeBees after Nam, Myself Navy 20 years Retired, Cusin national Guard Mid 80′s, Step son Marines right now, and there has been others also. the ones listed is my dads side that is not counting my moms side or wifes side of the family.
The lying swine should be dragged to the public square and whipped
I have read enough sounds like children. WE as “Soldiers” regardless of branch Marine, Army, Navy or Air Force, Coast Guard whether it be Active, Reserves, or National Guard we are all brothers and sisters. I have taught children we are family under one umbrella; one child & daughter in law served in the Marines and the other child getting ready to leave for basic US Air Force. We have long family History serving our country from all branches w/the exception of the Coast Guard. Regardless we know what is right, Integrity First; Service Before Self; and Excellence In All We Do. Situational Awareness. I understand that this is disturbing that someone would lie how they served and what metals received is wrong. I too have served in the military and unhappy of those who take it too far. They lack core values.
Let me start off as a vet to say to all who have serviced THANK YOU. as for the law I think it is wrong for anyone to say the won a MOH or they where a SEAL SF PJ and so on but we can not lock eveyone up for lying if we do we have to start with POTUS and work are way down Captiol Hill now if they say the won the MOH to get a job loan even a better seat on a bus the lock his or her ass up for fraud. Also all of the dealers at airshow and army navy store pawn shop that sale hats badges metals and so on would need to be locked up for selling these Items so for now until the courts rules we hve to just keep call out these liars
I dont care if u own guns or medals
thats ur right however there should be
sum form of fine or punishment for
Them LYING about reciving the award,
I being in country being wound feel
thats just !!!
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[...] Stolen Valor Act Reaches Supreme Court: Dozens of men and women have ignored this law and have been prosecuted accordingly, but a recent ruling by the 9th Circuit Court on a California case from 2007 has garnered the attention of the U.S. Supreme Court, and now the rest of America. [...]
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[...] unknown if he will be allowed to continue in the competition, or perhaps even prosecuted under the Stolen Valor Act if his claims are confirmed to be [...]
[...] in a 6-3 decision, the Supreme Court struck down the Stolen Valor Act on Thursday, essentially calling it an infringement on a person’s First Amendment right to [...]