Stolen Valor Act discussion - part 4

Part IV – Lessons Learned

So what should readers take away from this account; what should be learned from this case in point? First, although this story seems bizarre and unbelievable, it is played out many times each day, with minor variations, in many cities and towns across our nation. Imposters making extraordinarily fantastic claims are an all-too-common phenomenon in our celebrity-worshipping culture. Second, the real plot elements appearing in many movies are there because they make for an exciting story, not because they resemble real life. They bear little, if any, resemblance to reality. Third, verification of credentials is an imperative. It makes sense to verify the credentials of a medical specialist before committing to a surgical procedure. The same level of caution is advisable when dealing with claims of extraordinary military accomplishment and recognition. If a story sounds like it was ripped from the pages of an adventure thriller or from the movie screen… it probably was. A healthy dose of skepticism is not misplaced when applied to such situations.

Critical thinking is a skill which must be reinstated in our culture. Analysis of what we are being told is more important than ever before in our society, whether to determine the truthfulness of a TV commercial or the truthfulness of someone’s claims of military heroism. Don’t let the entertainment industry dictate what you believe and what you don’t believe. Ask questions, and then look for verification of the answers you receive from a credible and trustworthy choice. Don’t let your imagination and your desire to “know a celebrity” get out of hand. The Christmas present from Washington DC should make things a bit more difficult for those who seek to defraud you.

Steve Robinson
USN 1970-1978
SEAL Team ONE
Inshore Undersea Warfare Group ONE
UDT-SEAL Association
Special Operations Association
POW Network Advisory Board
Naval Special Warfare Archives - SOF Analyst/Contributing Journalist
Disabled American Veterans - Life Member
FORMER Special Investigator - SEAL Authentication Team
Author of the book NO GUTS, NO GLORY - Unmasking Navy SEAL Imposters