District court judge rules in favor of phony war heroes

[Sailor Steve]

Originally Posted by tater

I think the guys doing this are indeed disgusting scumbags, don't get me wrong. I'm just not sure about with what basis a reasonable charge could be made.

It's sorta like burning a flag. I think it's a disgusting thing to do, but I also don't think it's the government's business if that's how some jackass wants to "express himself."

I think it would probably be illegal to impersonate an active member of the military, but claiming past service? Isn't it enough that the bulk of the US population would be disgusted with them if they were exposed?

While I really hate to say it, this is my exact feeling on this. None of this actually brings harm to another person, which the only reason laws should be passed.

[Platapus]

Originally Posted by tater

I think the guys doing this are indeed disgusting scumbags, don't get me wrong. I'm just not sure about with what basis a reasonable charge could be made.

It's sorta like burning a flag. I think it's a disgusting thing to do, but I also don't think it's the government's business if that's how some jackass wants to "express himself."

I think it would probably be illegal to impersonate an active member of the military, but claiming past service? Isn't it enough that the bulk of the US population would be disgusted with them if they were exposed?

Originally Posted by Sailor Steve

While I really hate to say it, this is my exact feeling on this. None of this actually brings harm to another person, which the only reason laws should be passed.

You can add me to this list also. Just because I find something morally offensive does not mean that it should be illegal. Besides if a person is trying to defraud someone by wearing the medals, the current fraud statutes would still apply. But to have a law that prohibits the wearing of an object is unnecessary.

How about actors or people conducting reenactments? Arrest them? I don't think so. We have plenty of laws concerning fraud to protect us.

[Sailor Steve]

Originally Posted by Platapus

How about actors or people conducting reenactments? Arrest them?

YEAH! That dirty McBee is still trying to pass himself off as a genuine Civil War vet! We real ones won't put up with that!

(Thought I'd beat him to the punch this time)