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In Support of the Stolen Valor Act of 2011
Washington,
Jul 11 -
On June 28th, the Supreme Court struck down in a 6 to 3 ruling the Stolen Valor Act of 2005, which declared it a federal misdemeanor to falsely claim receipt of military medals. The case began in 2007, when Xavier Alvarez, a California man, falsely and deliberately declared himself a retired Marine with 25 years of service and the “Congressional Medal of Honor.”
He was tried and convicted in a California court under the terms of the Stolen Valor Act, a decision the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit overturned.
There is no question about it: Mr. Alvarez’s conduct was disgraceful, despicable, and a dishonor to the men and women in uniform who proudly serve our country. But the Supreme Court was right to determine that simply lying about one’s military service and accomplishments qualifies as protected speech under the Constitution.
However, we must also hold those accountable for their actions in accordance with our Constitution. That is why Congressman Rigell has cosponsored H.R. 1775, the Stolen Valor Act of 2011, which resolves the constitutional issue by punishing those who misrepresent their military service with the intention of obtaining anything of value.
Read more about the Stolen Valor Act of 2011 here:
http://www.opencongress.org/bill/112-h1775/show
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