Rep. Salazar announces ‘Military Valor Roll of Honor’

Legislation gives tools to prosecute Stolen Valor Act

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman John T. Salazar announced he will be introducing legislation as a follow-up to The Stolen Valor Act which was signed into law by the president in 2006.  The Military Valor Roll of Honor Act of 2007 will create a database containing the names and citations of individuals who have been awarded the Medal of Honor or any other medal authorized by the United States Congress.  Rep. Patrick Murphy (PA-08) is joining Congressman Salazar in these efforts.

The Stolen Valor Act of 2005, which was sponsored by Rep. Salazar, broadened U.S. law and made it a felony to falsely claim to be a decorated military veteran with punishments of up to six months in prison and a $5,000 fine. The penalties are double for a claim involving the Medal of Honor, Distinguished Service Cross, Air Force Cross, Navy Cross, Silver Star or Purple Heart.   “Medals recognize the best American qualities – courage, honor, and sacrifice,” said Salazar. “These honors are reserved for those who willingly risked their lives for our country.  The Medal of Honor is our nation’s highest military honor.  It is our job to protect the honor and integrity of our veterans, to make sure the memory of their heroism is not tarnished."

After passage of the Stolen Valor Act, Federal law enforcement found that the law was difficult to prosecute because a comprehensive, searchable database does not exist for these records.  Last month alone dozens of phony heroes emerged in press reports. In Topeka, Kansas, a man was charged with using a forged citation to obtain distinctive Purple Heart license plates identifying him as a wounded warrior of the Global War on Terrorism.  In Fort Worth, Texas, a different man used false records showing he had received two Silver Stars, multiple Purple Hearts, and a bogus letter from the White House indicating he had been nominated for the Medal of Honor in order to obtain scholarships, bank loans, and speaking engagements.

“Having a readily accessible and public database will not only give the tools to law enforcement to prosecute fraudulent claims, but will properly recognize those who have been honored with these citations,” Rep. Salazar added.  “I’m proud of to work with Congressman Patrick Murphy, who is a fellow veteran, to bring this historic legislation forward.”

(Rep.  John T. Salazar (CO-03) is a veteran of the U.S.  Army and a member of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee.  Rep. Patrick J. Murphy (PA-08) is the only Iraq War Veteran in Congress and a recipient of the Bronze Star; he serves on the House Armed Services Committee.  A letter to their Congressional colleagues is attached.)