Man Charged for Wearing Medals Prosecutors Say He Didn't Earn

JSOnline via AP ^ | June 23, 2006 | Staff Writer from AP

[river rat]

I believe I read somewhere that Kerry allowed a couple of Boston newspaper writers to "review" selected portions of his records.

One would have to wonder why the bastard is so secretive of his records if he thought they would PROVE his version of his heroics...

Semper Fi

[festus]

Lock him up.

[fortheDeclaration]

I think they should just give the American Legion post 24 hours free from prosecution. This peice of $%^* will never wear an award he didn't earn again and many other paper heroes would think twice before pulling this crap.

That may be the best solution.

[GrandEagle]

have been putting together my old uniform for the purpose of playing Taps at soldiers funerals

I just went to the first military funeral I've been to as a civilian. The last one was just over 30 years ago for a pilot that we lost in a training mission. Fortunately, this one had a live version of TAPS. I had forgotten how chilling it can be.
His family was deeply moved by the respect that was shown this man, and were a bit surprised at the number of vets who showed up to pay their respects. This guy was a WWII fighter pilot in Europe.
Hats off to you for taking your time to honor these guys. I wish I was musically talented.

Cordially,
GE

[xarmydog]

I wish I had the lips to not have to resort to using a modified bugle,but as per my last post,they suffered enough damage as to where I cannot get the seal needed.The last few funerals I attended,I observed how the flag folders could not wait to get out of there.Sadly enough,I was at one time the same way.Being young,the importance of the event went right over my head.I try to impress upon whomever is sent,just how important they are to the families they represent.I think a lot goes over their heads,as it did mine years ago.I can always tell by how many times they check their watches!Our local VFW sends a color guard with four rifles for the 21 gun salute.It is heartbreaking to watch as many have to use their feet to cock their rifles!But they are there.I would like to know how many active duty military personnel were on hand.Here,we get two flag folder's,and a CD player.Usually,the flag bearers are from different branches of the service.Thanks for your service,and your reply.Respectfully,xarmydog

[dpa5923]

But since this will never happen, a trail for his crime would be most appropriate.

[GrandEagle]

I wish I had the lips to not have to resort to using a modified bugle
I'm sorry I responded before I read your last post. A modified bugle is still a Bugle, not a CD player! It is IN PERSON, and a display of proper respect IMHO. I thank you for taking the time to care.
I'm not worth a hoot at music, but I do try to attend now. As you stated before, as I age, I understand better the sacrifice that these men gave and how much it means to their family that someone appreciates it.
You are so right in that people are too quick to want to leave. It was a friend and coworkers Dad who passed away; another friend, who is also a vet, and I got the word out here, and there were around 40 vets that showed up. Pretty good showing I thought, especially when most didn't know my friend.
The VFW guys that handled the ceremony I though did a magnificent job. Very military, very professional, and very respectful. There were 9 men total, 4 with rifles and a Chaplin.
I thank you for your service, and for your sacrifice.

Respectfully,
GE

[xarmydog]

Any active personnel?I have a special unit attached to my guitar that can imitate any instrument known to man.I can play taps on it,but it just ain't the same!

[GrandEagle]

Any active personnel?
No, Unfortunately there were no active duty personnel there. All Vets & the local VFW, but these guys were good! I didn't get a chance to speak to them, but based on age I would say that the majority were Korean with a couple of Vietnam vets.
GE

[xarmydog]

Why??

[GrandEagle]

Why?
I have no idea why there were no active duty folks there. The VFW guys handled the whole thing.
Where there supposed to be? Like I said, this was my first one to attend as a civilian. My friends Dad was a WWII vet.
If so, I'll not tell him, he would be hurt. (My friend never served)

GE

[xarmydog]

There should have been at least what I refer to as a bare bones contingent.That is why I was referring to the two active duty people who have been sent.Maybe there was not a request put in.But,I admire your concern as to not telling him.That would serve no useful purpose,especially if things went so well.It sounds much better than what we have been having here.Along with the bugle comes guidance on how to conduct yourself.I am glad for that!I sure would hate to make an a..of myself!

[GrandEagle]

There should have been at least what I refer to as a bare bones contingent.
Thanks for the info.
I believe his Dad was a member of that local VFW so maybe you right and a request was never made.
In either case, I'll be quiet about it.

GE

[ArrogantBustard]

Three wounds: Pun-gee through foot (no infection)

My first reaction to that was "No $#!+!!!" ... which, now that I think about it, would explain why there was no infection ... ;'}

Seriously, though, his guardian angel was working overtime ...

[Lazamataz]

How old does one have to be to start getting away with pleading "old"?

12.

[xarmydog]

Great talking to you.I always like to learn something from conversations like this.Today,I believe I have.Regards,xarmydog

[Navy Patriot]

First thing I thought was: "Why not Kerry first", Barney Fife priorities.

[GrandEagle]

Great talking to you.I always like to learn something from conversations like this.Today,I believe I have
DITTO!

Have a great evening!

GE

[Michael.SF.]

Seriously, though, his guardian angel was working overtime ...

That he was.

[Calpernia]

I know it sounds like overkill Diana. But a large number of people mascarade as soldiers of war and actually go to Legions or other type of venues to spread propaganda.

Remember the Vietnam Veteran's against the War? There is a new branch for Irag now.

They also go on as News Analysts with false credentials.