[VOA]

My money is on the idea that a Feminist Officer in favor of female combatants leaked
a false story of her bravery to the press from the get go. Which is why she has
not been allowed to talk about it.

Your scenario is very reasonable.
I'm just hoping people will "hold their fire" on Pvt. Lynch and the issue of
the military decorations until some time passes.
Even if they are technically correct about the questionable nature of
some of the decorations/commendations.
"Truth will out"..."in the fullness of time".