Blog: Protecting Their Right to Honor
Statement
Dear Fellow Coloradan,
In the U.S. military, our troops earn ribbons and medals for extraordinary achievements and acts of valor. Whether it be the Medal of Honor, the Purple Heart, or a skill badge recognizing mastery of a demanding task, these awards acknowledge our troops' dedication, service and sacrifice.
As a proud member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee, I believe it is my duty to prevent imposters from cheapening the sacrifices our troops make for our country.
During my time in the U.S. House of Representatives, I co-sponsored the Stolen Valor Act, which made it a misdemeanor to falsely claim military medals or decorations. The U.S. Supreme Court decided earlier this year to strike down this important law, saying it violated the First Amendment.
While that decision was discouraging, the court left open the possibility of modifying the original bill to ensure that imposters do not sully the service or achievements of our service members and veterans. Thus, I have joined with Senator Jim Webb (D-Va.) as a co-sponsor of the Military Service Integrity Act of 2012 - which I believe retains the spirit of the Stolen Valor Act while addressing the concerns raised by the court.
The Military Service Integrity Act would punish those falsely claiming to be the recipient of a military medal or decoration for profit or personal gain. The Military Service Integrity Act also sends a message to our veterans and active service members that we value their sacrifice and will do everything in our power to protect their good names and reputations from con artists and imposters.
We must not idly stand by as the brave men and women of our armed forces have their honor disrespected. Click here to learn more about how the Military Service Integrity Act of 2012 protects our service men and women.
Join me in urging Congress to pass this common-sense, bipartisan solution and ensure that no one is allowed to profit through lies and deceit at the expense of true heroes.
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