Legal Definition (Stolen Valor Act of 2013)
The Stolen Valor Act of 2013 (18 U.S. Code § 704), signed into law on June 3, 2013, amends the federal criminal code to make it a crime for an individual to knowingly make a false representation regarding their military service with the intent to obtain money, property, or other tangible benefits. Specifically, it prohibits falsely claiming to have received military decorations or medals, such as the Medal of Honor, with penalties including fines or imprisonment for up to one year. This law revised the earlier 2005 Act, which was struck down in 2012 by the Supreme Court in United States v. Alvarez for violating free speech, by narrowing its scope to focus on fraudulent claims for tangible gain.
Veterans’ Perspective on Stolen Valor
True, honorable veterans often describe stolen valor as the act of impersonating a veteran or active-duty service member, regardless of whether tangible benefits are sought. To veterans, stolen valor is a profound disrespect to those who have served and sacrificed, as it undermines the trust and camaraderie built through shared experiences. It includes falsely claiming military service, rank, or awards—such as wearing unearned medals or uniforms—or exaggerating one’s service history to gain respect, admiration, or social standing. Veterans view this as a betrayal of the values of integrity and honor central to military service, even if the impersonation does not involve financial gain.