In my battalion in Viet Nam officers got the Bronze Star for playing horseshoes with the battalion commander, which wasn't all that heroic. It is given for meritorious service which could apply to Pfc. Lynch's conduct as a POW.
Sorry, Chief...but Lynch was never a PW...not in a civilian hospital...and remember...no resistance during the "daring", MTV crew military PA corps smashing of doors?
Purple, maybe...POW/BS w V...never!