The real irritation with this is that many times the "vets" are using their records to receive medical care, federal aid, etc from various agencies, and are using their false representations for material gain.

A purple heart entitles you to certain federal and in many cases state assistance.

The Meritorious Service Medal in some states gets you certain benefits.

And the bastards out there with fake records make it harder for the people with legit issues and records to get assistance.

It is also a violation of federal law to wear any part of the uniform of a military person unless you're either a vet or currently serving, so the stolen valor act is in reality a re-emphasis on another federal law.

Hang the bastards.