STOLEN VALOR ACT

We were so shocked about SCOTUS decision on ObamaCare that we were oblivious to their decision to strike down the Stolen Valor Act.  Using indefensible judgment, the Supremes said that it is now acceptable to lie about military service.  Apparently, the First Amendment protects the Americans’ right to lie, even if that lie involves a person’s military service, medals, and awards received. (Lee Ferran, abcNews, June 28, 2012)

The decision vindicated Xavier Alvarez who was convicted under the Stolen Valor Act of 2006. The bill made it illegal to claim ownership of or to wear military medals and ribbons, which were not earned.  Alvarez never received the medals claimed nor served in the military.  He was sentenced to three years probation, a $5,000 fine, and community service.  His lawyers convinced the Supreme Court that the Stolen Valor Act was unconstitutional and it violated his right to lie.

SCOTUS, through Justice Kennedy, defended its 6-3 decision in Alvarez’s favor that the Stolen Valor Act is “too broad and ignores whether the liar is trying to gain anything through his or her false statement.”  A lie by any other name is still a lie. People lie to gain influence, access, money, and positions of power.   So, if you’re having trouble finding a job, go buy yourself a Congressional Medal of Honor and enhance your resume.

While cowardly Americans exercise their SCOTUS-decreed right to lie about military accomplishments, the true heroes who receive medals and ribbons do so by sacrificing their lives, limbs, blood, treasure, and precious time with their families.

We MUST get a couple more true conservatives appointed to the court.