TROY NEHLS FINALLY TAKES OFF COMBAT BADGE RESCINED BY ARMY
Symbols, especially in a military context, hold sentimental value and significance. This is the case for any recipient of the Combat Infantryman Badge (CIB). Soldiers honored with the CIB are acknowledged for their actions backed by bravery and being directly involved in combat. Regarding Rep. Troy Nehls, the decision to wear his CIB has been met with criticism, controversy, and the belief that he has committed the crime of stolen valor. He has repeatedly defended his position, citing the CIB’s reflection on his service as a hard-earned reward. Let’s dive deeper into stolen valor and why Troy Nehls was so insistent on wearing his CIB.
What is Stolen Valor?
Stolen valor has been an issue in the United States for years. It refers to an individual falsely claiming specific awards, recognitions, or services performed related to the military. If you’ve ever wondered, “Is stolen valor a crime?” The answer is 'yes.' This is one of the most dishonorable acts one can commit, which is why it is criminal. The Stolen Valor Law was first implemented in 2005 due to the number of offenders, but it had to be amended in 2013. This is because intent wasn’t under consideration when the law was first put into place. The amendment narrowed the definition of the crime. To be deemed guilty of committing this crime, there must be intent to gain something of value.
How to Earn a Combat Infantryman Badge
Established in 1943, this prestigious award is given in recognition to U.S. Army Soldiers who have physically engaged in combat on the battlefield. Specifically, one must serve as an infantryman or special forces Soldier as part of the requirements. As highly respected as a reward as it is, it symbolizes the courage and bravery many Soldiers display in battle. This is why those who receive it must have participated in active ground combat. In order to be eligible for the CIB, a Soldier must meet three requirements.
- The first is that they must be performing their duties in a satisfactory manner.
- Secondly, a Soldier has to be assigned to an infantry unit during a time when they will be engaged in active ground combat.
- Lastly, they must be an active participant in ground combat.
A Closer Look at Troy Nehls’ Military History and Record
Rep. Troy Nehls served in the military for two decades, from 1988-2008. During this period, he held various roles, one of which was as an infantryman. For the first thirteen years, he served in the Wisconsin National Guard. For the last seven years, he served in the Army Reserve. In 2008, he was stationed in Afghanistan as a Civil Affairs Officer, where he was awarded the CIB. Even though all military service is deserving of respect, this role didn’t qualify for the badge. After a thorough investigation and audit of Nehls’ service history, it was rescinded in 2023.
Why Wouldn’t Nehls Take the Badge off in the First Place?
Despite the badge being rescinded, Troy Nehls refused to stop wearing it. This was a bold move and caused an uproar in criticism and controversy. Notably, he has been accused of stolen valor. In response, Nehls defended his stance by arguing that he earned his CIB and that it held value for him. The backlash he’s faced hasn’t deterred him from wearing the badge. In addition, he was accused of falsely claiming two Bronze Stars for his service. The Department of Defense could only verify one on record. He posted two awards on his X account to back up his claims.Despite the accusations, Nehls doesn't seem to be phased. He had made multiple unwavering statements that the CIB was validly given to him, supporting his stance. That was until Wednesday, June 26, 2024.
Troy Nehls Finally Takes the Combat Infantry Badge Off
After a month of wearing the CIB publicly, regardless of people’s perceptions, Troy Nehls appeared without the badge on Wednesday, June 26, 2024.Ultimately, it remains a possibility that Congressman Troy Nehls is guilty of stolen valor. However, it is worth clarifying why. Nehls did serve in the Army, but there is no record of him fighting in active combat. The CIB is for those who served in active combat.Regardless, it is essential to know that stolen valor is a severe crime. A guilty conviction can lead to fines and imprisonment. Anthony Anderson, a Veteran who runs the Guardian of Valor, was instrumental in uncovering that Troy Nehls' award had been revoked. When asked about the case, Anderson explained that the discovery was not one rooted in politics, but rather out of respect for Veterans across the nation. He said, "I've got friends that I visit every Memorial Day that have earned this award, and it's put them in the ground. That's why this is such a big issue. We have to protect these awards because if we just let anybody and everybody wear them just because they claim them, it waters them down, and it doesn't make them as prestigious. It just hurts the award system altogether." References:What is Stolen Valor and is it a Crime? Accessed, June 2024. https://www.jordanucmjlaw.com/2023/01/what-is-stolen-valor-and-is-it-a-crime/Combat Infantryman Badge CIB, Accessed June 2024. https://www.hrc.army.mil/content/Combat%20Infantryman%20Badge%20CIBTroy Nehls Ineligible for Combat Badge, Accessed June 2024. https://thehill.com/policy/defense/4737320-troy-nehls-combat-infantryman-badge-army-national-guard/Related reads:
