[Ronin]

Me, for one. And I never received anything stronger than a Navy Commendation Medal in my 13 years.

I was awarded Good Conduct Medals (for not getting caught) I guess.

I have nothing but contempt for people who claim honors they have not earned.

[naturalman1975]

Australia has recently introduced a medal that is awarded to any person who served a minimum term of enlistment in the Australian Defence Force (or who served an incomplete term through no fault of their own - discharged medically unfit, for example).

The pride that men who served four years, forty years ago, have in receiving that medal is a lesson to all that something you earned is worth something. Something you didn't is worth nothing.

[elcid1970]

Be proud of your service! As the poet said,

“They also serve who only stand and wait.”

As for phony vets, throw the book at them! Be sure and read “Stolen Valor” c. 1998.