What kind of national organization, that tries to effect foreign policy and end a war, takes people into their fold without first checking the authenticity of their service? The members of the VVAW complained about the government duping them, and here they were duped by individuals in their own group. Not very bright on their part. It definitely took away from whatever legitimacy they thought they might have.
And, if Kerry and his aides attempted to get Musgrave to change his story, it only adds to the suspicions regarding the stories behind all of Kerry's medals. Everybody else is lying except John Kerry? I don't think so.