With the National Purple Heart Association located in our community, it is imperative that we all take time to honor the men and women who have received this significant award. Yet, alarmingly, this esteemed award has been falsely claimed by some individuals, a disgraceful act known as stolen valor. When individuals act as military imposters, claiming to have served in the military or falsifying any military activity, they discredit the millions of men and women who dedicated their lives to our country.
In May of last year, a leader of a local veterans charity lied about receiving a Purple Heart, misappropriated donations for military charity, and nominated herself for the New Windsor Hall of Honor. It is truly appalling that something like this occurred, especially since I believe this malicious behavior could – and should – have been prevented.
As an advocate for veterans, I have been steadfast in my commitment to honoring those who have genuinely earned military distinctions, and I believe steps must be taken to prevent this egregious behavior. Which is why I introduced a bill (S9154A) that would establish stolen valor as a crime in New York State. In addition, I have reached out to the Department of Defense, requesting the creation of a searchable database of verified Purple Heart recipients. The absence of such a database complicates efforts to validate claims of distinguished honor and its establishment would prevent further incidents of fraud as well as uphold the dignity of the military awards.
The National Purple Heart Hall of Honor, located right here in Orange County, remains a cherished institution, dedicated to preserving the stories and sacrifices of American service members. We must strengthen measures that protect these institutions and the legacies of those who have served with distinction. We must not forget, nor diminish, the sacrifices of so many veterans. Stolen valor will not be tolerated.
