Dear Readers,
As a Marine Corps veteran, I have witnessed firsthand the profound respect and honor that accompany service to our nation. Every veteran deserves recognition for their sacrifice, whether they served in peace or war, on the front lines or in support roles. However, I find it deeply troubling when individuals embellish their military service, particularly by claiming they were in combat when, in reality, they served during combat.
Let’s clarify the difference. Serving in combat means you were actively engaged in hostilities, facing enemy fire, and enduring the harrowing realities of war. It is an experience that leaves permanent scars—physical, emotional, and psychological. Combat veterans carry these burdens for the rest of their lives, often coping with PTSD, survivor’s guilt, or injuries. Serving during combat, however, refers to being in the military at a time of war or conflict but not directly participating in combat operations. While such service is honorable, it does not equate to the lived experience of those on the front lines.
This distinction is critical, yet some choose to blur the lines, presenting themselves as combat veterans when they were not. This misrepresentation, often referred to as Stolen Valor, is more than a harmless exaggeration—it is a betrayal of trust and an affront to those who have truly faced the horrors of combat.
Why is this such a significant issue? First, it undermines the sacrifices of genuine combat veterans. For those who have bled and lost brothers and sisters in arms, seeing someone falsely claim their experiences feels like a slap in the face. It diminishes the gravity of their sacrifices and casts a shadow over their credibility.
Second, these false claims erode public trust. When someone fabricates their service record, it casts doubt on all veterans’ stories. True combat veterans often struggle to share their experiences due to their deeply personal and painful nature. When imposters co-opt these narratives, it makes it harder for the public to distinguish truth from fiction.
Third, it’s a matter of integrity. Military service is built on values like honor, courage, and commitment. Those who falsely claim combat experience betray these values. They exploit the respect society holds for veterans to gain unwarranted admiration, benefits, or social standing.
To those who might be tempted to embellish their service: reflect on the disservice you do to yourself, your fellow veterans, and the institution you once served. There is no shame in serving honorably, regardless of your role. Whether you were on the front lines or supporting the mission from afar, your contribution matters. But pretending to have endured combat when you have not is both dishonest and disrespectful.
Let us honor the truth and ensure that the sacrifices of combat veterans are recognized without dilution. They have earned our deepest gratitude, and their experiences must never be trivialized by those seeking unearned glory.
Semper Fidelis,
John Oliver Riccio
