Why is it that Military Posers all use the same story - Ranger, Seal, SF, etc.?

PFC Eric Minchey — Thu, 07 Aug 2014 00:47:44 -0400

Why is it that Military Posers all use the same story- Ranger, Seal, SF, etc. ? Why don't they try a more "believable" story- Cook, Supply, Mechanic, etc. ? My best guess is because the Ranger, Seal, SF etc story is more impressive & nobody except those with any connection to the military will question the word of a soldier especially a combat soldier. Anyone else got a better answer?

Response by SSgt Gregory Guina made Aug 7 at 2014 12:58 AM

SSgt Gregory Guina — Thu, 07 Aug 2014 00:58:42 -0400

Pretty much that exactly. Rangers, Seals ETC get the most attention and that is what they are looking for.

Response by MSG Wade Huffman made Aug 7 at 2014 11:34 AM

MSG Wade Huffman — Thu, 07 Aug 2014 11:34:37 -0400

You nailed it, they are trying to impress. In my opinion, it just makes them easier to spot.. they go FULL HOOAH!! We all know that you NEVER go FULL HOOAH!!

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 7 at 2014 11:51 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 07 Aug 2014 11:51:22 -0400

Because they are posing to get attention. I'm an 88N so I can say this lol, but support MOS' are the last thing you want to say you are, if you are looking for attention. But if you go out there and say "I'm a delta ranger seal pj with the 1st ID jump squadron".....you will definitely get some attention...haha.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 7 at 2014 11:53 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 07 Aug 2014 11:53:34 -0400

The whole "Go big or go home" saying comes to mind every time I see them...

Response by MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca made Aug 7 at 2014 12:51 PM

MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca — Thu, 07 Aug 2014 12:51:35 -0400

Because most people can easily associate the often used, SF, Green Berets, SEALS, Rangers, etc. with military kick-a$$. Until they write a book about us world famous [insert your MOS here] guys and our cool equipment, then make it into a movie starring Denzel Washington, no one's going to pose as us because we aren't high speed and recognizable enough.

They tried it a while back with Pauley Shore and water purification with, "In the Army Now" and I haven't seen a poser coming out as a water purification specialist yet.

Response by CW5 Sam R. Baker made Aug 7 at 2014 12:51 PM

CW5 Sam R. Baker — Thu, 07 Aug 2014 12:51:58 -0400

This conversation was held this morning while I was at a voting station here in Tennessee. There is a guy up in Indiana I think posing as a shot down 160th SOAR fellow and some of the unit got wind of it cause said individual was asked to speak on the behalf of some Republican politicians up there, well the unit here at Fort Campbell, KY got a hold of it, called him and asked a lot of questions, typical tap dance and now he is in the witness protection program....seriously? If a poser did it with knowledge, respect for the uniform (proper wear) and then it would not hurt us who have served as bad, but usually these folks tarnish everything good about what we ALL have done. I guess you could consider it a compliment that people WANT TO BE LIKE YOU AND I in lieu of dressing up as a policeman, doctor or lawyer, nothing against those folks, just find it amazing people have to constantly live the lie.

It would wear me out.....but then is there seriously anything hard about raising your right hand and defending your country? They should just "DO IT".

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 7 at 2014 12:54 PM

Cpl Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 07 Aug 2014 12:54:30 -0400

I had to laugh out load PFC Eric Minchey its like the Kevin Costner question from the movie Bull Durham, why when everyone says they were someone in a former life is it always someone famous, and never a baker or tailor? Spot on observation and as has been said, if someone is going to the effort to pose as military to get the attention, then they go big. You have to applaud their go big or go home mentality. By applaud I mean moving your hands rapidly together on their head to illicit a loud slapping/clapping sound.

Response by SP5 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 7 at 2014 1:03 PM

SP5 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 07 Aug 2014 13:03:49 -0400

Yup.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 7 at 2014 1:08 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 07 Aug 2014 13:08:45 -0400

Stolen from a buddy, but my "favorite war story".

I get so tired of people asking me if I killed anyone "over there". Then they ALL tell me that they are SF or that their cousin is a SEAL as if they are trying to one-up me. So I just tell people that I am a cook.

And one time as a cook, we got a mission to prepare a great feast of spaghetti for some generals. So Bob, Steve, John, and I got started on this meal. Steve was cooking a 25 gallon pot of sauce adding in his secret ingredients trying to get the taste just right. When all of a sudden the pot just exploded. We all got up and looked around the kitchen and there was sauce covering everything. It was on the walls, on the ceiling, on us... only problem was, we couldn't find Steve. At that point we weren't sure that it was all sauce on the walls.

ain't war hell.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 7 at 2014 4:36 PM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 07 Aug 2014 16:36:32 -0400

Chuck In Delta Force with that gorgeous hair. Sorry can't help it!

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 7 at 2014 4:57 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 07 Aug 2014 16:57:27 -0400

What's even worse are the stolen valor posers, especially this infamous guy, "Johnny Bea". https://www.facebook.com/#!/johnny.bea.7?fref=ts That said, everyone serving deserves respect, irrespective of MOS or how many times they've deployed, if at all. Most folks I work with in the Medical Research and Materiel Command have never deployed, but they assume comparable or greater risks with the chemical and biological agents they work with to develop medical countermeasure to protect those deployed.

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Response by SSG John Bacon made Aug 7 at 2014 5:06 PM

SSG John Bacon — Thu, 07 Aug 2014 17:06:21 -0400

Yes MSG Huffman he did Nail it. It is the guise of "everything I did was Classified and I can't talk about it" so they are allowed to be vague about their "service". But they take it too far and they get caught.

Response by 1SG Frank Rocha made Aug 7 at 2014 6:08 PM

1SG Frank Rocha — Thu, 07 Aug 2014 18:08:36 -0400

This happens everywhere to one degree or another. The stolen valor act is used to prosecute those that use it for personal gain. I personally think its ridiculous and pathetic but using it to steal and obtain that which you are not entitled to is beyond criminal.

A few years ago a SGM (at the time at least) John Letuli took a picture with 4 other CSM's wearing an SF tab and an SF combat patch, neither of which he ever earned. The picture that started it all is below

Additionally, there are current cases of current or former service members doing the same thing. Below is a link about a guy named Mark Hans Smith who spent about 9 years in the national guard, and got out as a SSG, but is now posing as a 1SG, sniper with SF tab, USASOC combat patch, and a number of other items he didn't earn. This seems to be an ongoing thing but suffice it to say civilians are not the only ones doing this. The link to the story about Mr. Smith is below. I also pasted his photo just in case anyone recognizes him.

http://guardianofvalor.com/mark-h-smith-special-forces-ranger-poser-gets-free-k9-lying/

Mark Hans Smith Special Forces And Ranger Poser Gets Free K9 Training With Lies

Spokane Washington-Mark Hans Smith of Spokane Washington has been claimingto bea Sniper with Special Forces, and a Ranger. But he isn't just claiming to be any Sniper, Mark is one of the "U.S. Army's Top Snipers".He Also claims to have a Silver Star, a Bronze Star, two Purple Hearts, and the Army Occupation Medal.He has used these claims to receive free items in excess of $1,000, while sporting badges and tabs that he did not earn. He...

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 8 at 2014 7:03 PM

CW2 Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 08 Aug 2014 19:03:14 -0400

Well, yeah. They want the prestige of being a Navy SEAL Ranger Sniper without actually having to, you know, join the military and do these things, because they are hard and they totally would but they have stuff going on in their lives right now. They probably either don't have anything going on in their lives, have low self esteem, and they want to gain socially or professionally from being seen as a combat veteran from an elite unit.

It's basically grown men playing dress up because they are dissatisfied with their lives. Kind of sad, IMO.

Response by Cpl Rick West made Sep 4 at 2014 8:43 AM

Cpl Rick West — Thu, 04 Sep 2014 08:43:23 -0400

There is no glory for a cook. Even tho they keep all of us fed.
They don't realise that even a mechanic is an honorable position.

Response by PO3 Leroy Leftwich made Oct 22 at 2016 4:06 PM

PO3 Leroy Leftwich — Sat, 22 Oct 2016 16:06:40 -0400

It's one thing for some fool talking in a bar. It's another for them to wear a uniform they haven't earned.

Response by PO3 Ricky Foster made Oct 22 at 2016 6:08 PM

PO3 Ricky Foster — Sat, 22 Oct 2016 18:08:47 -0400

Being a member of any armed forces SO group gives ya a better chance of getting laid by the gullible. At least that is why I think they imitate SO's.

Response by SPC John Decker made Oct 22 at 2016 6:43 PM

SPC John Decker — Sat, 22 Oct 2016 18:43:02 -0400

Pure EGO. If you have the the arrogance to put on a uniform you don't have the right to wear, just go all the way. ASSHOLES.

Response by SGT Misael Alvira made Oct 22 at 2016 8:01 PM

SGT Misael Alvira — Sat, 22 Oct 2016 20:01:25 -0400

I like.....

Response by Cpl John M Dutrow made Oct 22 at 2016 11:17 PM

Cpl John M Dutrow — Sat, 22 Oct 2016 23:17:25 -0400

BULLSHIT THEY WOULD NOT BE A PIMPLE ON A MARINES ARMY NAVY AIR FORCE COAST GUARD COMBAT VET ASS.THIS CRAP PISS ME OFF

Response by Cpl John M Dutrow made Oct 22 at 2016 11:19 PM

Cpl John M Dutrow — Sat, 22 Oct 2016 23:19:34 -0400

WE USE TO CALL THEM SHIT BRIDS

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 23 at 2016 1:48 AM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 23 Oct 2016 01:48:12 -0400

They wish they had the courage to be someone who defends the greatest country in the world with honor. These people make me sick.

Response by SGT Richard DeVoe made Oct 24 at 2016 8:02 AM

SGT Richard DeVoe — Mon, 24 Oct 2016 08:02:17 -0400

In mho it is the fact that the Ranger, Seal, SF, Delta Force, and Marine Recon (and all the others) get all the cool stuff. I am refering to the uniform bling, the Trident, the Tabs, the Beret, etc... and because of the all the movies about them and their bad a$$ ways people want to make others think of them like that. When Top Gun came out there was a large number of people that started wearing flight gear and wings.

I actually ran into a pos that was trying to pass the ESWS as a carrier qualification wings. A submarine device for water ditch qual. This guy said he got all of it from the Army Navy store and that is what the clerk told him they were.

The biggest problem I see is that so much of this stuff is available from the surplus stores and online. The other problem is that the people selling the stuff have no scrupples and ar just out for the money.

Response by GySgt Kenneth Pepper made Dec 12 at 2016 2:17 PM

GySgt Kenneth Pepper — Mon, 12 Dec 2016 14:17:50 -0500

People just aren't as impressed when you tell them that you were a Rotary Power Plants Test System Operator. I'll bet less than 5% of RP can even tell what that is.

Response by AN Erik Schaus made Dec 18 at 2016 1:19 AM

AN Erik Schaus — Sun, 18 Dec 2016 01:19:53 -0500

Most people that do this hope to sensationalize to cover up there own insecurities, They had a hard home life and were sheltered, from any real life issues, or they failed to have the guts to go through MEPS, boot/basic, A school, C school, let alone anything they had to do to make them selves great.... Fake people make me sick, i would love to meet some of these guys in a gear locker somewhere

Response by MAJ Luca Luca made Feb 2 at 2017 12:54 PM

MAJ Luca Luca — Thu, 02 Feb 2017 12:54:22 -0500

If you are going to play pretend, you want to be Batman, not Robin.
I think the reason people fake being high speed vs. being a "regular" troop is because it is easier. Everyone knows commandos are "just like the movies", you rarely have to come up with a cover story because millions have already been written by the "pros".
You can google a great deal of fluff to use to be convincing to people who don't know any better. But if a guy says "I was a supply guru", how easy is it to look up the things a Fly Supply Guy would know? Where do they train? How long, what is their MOS designator, what is their slang? I was military and I couldn't tell you. How about trying to take being a cook? Cannon Cocker? Elite MOS covers can be downloaded and viewed like streaming porn, too easy. Plus, it gives you a fail safe. If anyone asks for a detail or for proof, it is GS 14 Classified and can't talk about it and your records have all been sheep dipped. If you just go with being a simple, run of the mill soldier, you don't have a reason for not knowing your shit, nothing you did was secret. Like when I was the door gunner for the Challenger Shuttle, crap, I already said too much...

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 2 at 2017 1:09 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 02 Feb 2017 13:09:19 -0500

Folks like this are fun little toys for vets to play with. I have one that must have the memory of a flea who comes into the Canteen of my VFW Post every now and than. A fairly young guy who has tried to lay claim to being a Lieutenant just back from Iraq to a busted PFC from the 1st ID who was with them in Lybia who got put out with a BCD. I recognize who he is but for some reason he doesn't recognize me. So out of respect for the feeble minded I listen to him as he tries to impress our female bartenders unaware that I am behind him shaking my head and grinning at his heroic tales of fantasy.

Response by SGT Wayne Coulter made Feb 2 at 2017 2:31 PM

SGT Wayne Coulter — Thu, 02 Feb 2017 14:31:24 -0500

I retired after 28 years of military service and got into doing WWII living history displays. I have often had guys come up to my displays and tout their military exploits... anyone who has "been there and done that" can pick them out a mile away... or at least as soon as they open their mouth. When I begin to question them on what unit they were with, the most common response is "it's classified, I can't talk about it." I laugh and tell them that they've been talking about it since they walked up to my display and maybe I should flag down one of the active duty personnel and have them notify their intel section because they are so obviously divulging classified information. Most will turn white and exit the AO in a quick and expedient manner. Every so often I get one who will stand his ground and question me... "How the f*** would you know, you're just a civilian playing at being the army of the past." You should see the look on their faces when I tell them I'm a retired veteran who spent 28 years in the Army, fourteen and a half of which I was Military Police trained in Investigations and was trained to spot liars. Keep in mind that all of this usually goes down in front of witnesses who are viewing my display... That's usually enough to send them packing with their bullshyte stories.

Response by SGT Ray Davies made Feb 2 at 2017 4:45 PM

SGT Ray Davies — Thu, 02 Feb 2017 16:45:38 -0500

They also have a chest full of decorations (usually s couple different services) and never know thier MOS.

Response by SGT Sean Whitenton made Feb 2 at 2017 5:08 PM

SGT Sean Whitenton — Thu, 02 Feb 2017 17:08:50 -0500

Who's to say they haven't and just never got caught?

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 2 at 2017 6:13 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 02 Feb 2017 18:13:44 -0500

I think that covers it very well.

Response by Sgt Jeremy Williams made Feb 2 at 2017 6:35 PM

Sgt Jeremy Williams — Thu, 02 Feb 2017 18:35:05 -0500

Try being a grunt and Recon where you spend 2 years trying to get transferred to a cook or supply so you can have a life!

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 2 at 2017 6:46 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 02 Feb 2017 18:46:41 -0500

It's a cover for their perceived inadequacies as a person or Soldier/Sailor/Marine/Airman.

Response by SFC Jerry Humphries made Feb 2 at 2017 7:56 PM

SFC Jerry Humphries — Thu, 02 Feb 2017 19:56:03 -0500

Yep, I know what you are saying, I was just a lowly SAPPER , tell any civilian that and they just look at you crossed eye and say What's that. I kind of feel left out that the sorry posers don't try at least be a little realistic.

Response by 1SG Jerome Schumacher made Feb 2 at 2017 7:57 PM

1SG Jerome Schumacher — Thu, 02 Feb 2017 19:57:14 -0500

Got a poser here locally. He shows up at Veteran functions wearing Dress Greens, wearing a Cav hat,and low quarters. He did 30 yrs National Guard, and deployed to Bosnia as a cook. Claims he was in OEF. Was wearing Engineer brass, unauthorized ribbons ( DDSM, SOLDIERS MEDAL, AAM, GCM W/ OLC ( ?) AIR MEDAL etc etc) His uniform is totally FUBAR! A SSG should know better! Now why would a SSG who served that long Honorably wear all that? Isn't he proud enough of his service, or does he wear it all to make himself even more proud?

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 2 at 2017 8:00 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 02 Feb 2017 20:00:45 -0500

"Believable" story? I'm a 17 year Veteran and have had 4 MOS's (Combat Medic, Combat Engineer, Cavalry Scout and Motor Transport) and no one hardly believes it. I've been called a liar to no end. People question any and everything anymore and I don't blame them. It does hurt when you're telling the truth though.

Response by SSG Ken Gilder made Feb 2 at 2017 8:25 PM

SSG Ken Gilder — Thu, 02 Feb 2017 20:25:33 -0500

Initially, it was 703, then it became 71R, and when I got out, it was 46R. Chairborne all the way! I was a broadcaster for the American Forces Radio and Television Service (AFRTS), now known as AFN.

Response by SSgt Marty McLEan made Feb 2 at 2017 8:34 PM

SSgt Marty McLEan — Thu, 02 Feb 2017 20:34:38 -0500

When was the last movie about a Disbursing Clerk or a Supply Admin Clerk or OMG! A Small Engine Repairman? These nozzles are looking to be the next freaking Rambo so they are a Delta Force, Ranger Force Recon SEAL Sniper who trained Chris Kyle and Carlos Hathcock.

Response by SSG Jeff Carlisle-Tierno made Feb 2 at 2017 8:48 PM

SSG Jeff Carlisle-Tierno — Thu, 02 Feb 2017 20:48:22 -0500

Get out and get into the trucking industry - you'll really see these fuckers come out of the woodwork then. Not just the posers, but also the embellishers - the Motor Transport operator who suddenly becomes Delta Force at a truck stop lunch counter, etc. My favorites were the guy who told me he was in "Ranger battalion at Bragg" (and he told me this AFTER he knew I'd been stationed there), and the guy who wore an unshaven, poorly formed tan beret with the generic flash from the Shinseki Specials, and a CSM rank pinned through it… he also told me he'd been with the Rangers in Grenada, Panama, and Desert Storm, and Somalia, and the beret was the original one he'd been issued.

Response by TSgt Johnnie Keller made Feb 2 at 2017 8:48 PM

TSgt Johnnie Keller — Thu, 02 Feb 2017 20:48:56 -0500

I think that it is what is known as "little man syndrome," they for what ever the reason didn't get the attention that they need, so let's blow this story up and get that attention. The problem is, that once confronted they usually go into defense mode and refuse to own up to it. I found one of my old troopers who was doing the same thing and his stories didn't check out and once we (former members of our old Airborne Pathfinder Platoon) verified that he was a fraud, we outed him and unfriended him. We told him that it would never be tolerated in our eyes and our old motto was; "you didn't earn it, you don't wear it." It is sad that people think that they need to lie, but when it's someone who has served it makes it even harder. I am no hero, I served 11 years in the Army and 9 in the Air Force. At one time I was at the tip of the spear, the last part of my career, I was towards the far end of the shaft in a support role. We who have served have a very important role for the whole team and if you served and it was in the rear area, be proud of your service. If you never served and want to dress up, dress up as batman or superman. It will still carry the same weight without being outed by a military member. FILO!!!

Response by PO1 Tim Dawson made Feb 2 at 2017 9:10 PM

PO1 Tim Dawson — Thu, 02 Feb 2017 21:10:18 -0500

I believe they do this this because they are not proud or dont they feel what ever they did in life wasn't significant. The same reason folks say who ever they know is a seal, SF etc.
That being said no one has the right to pretend to be a seal, ranger etc.
it's sad that people can't find how important there job is in life!
FYI every job in the service is as important as every other job! Yes even supply. Every cook every mechanic every cog in the wheel or the wheel don't work!

Response by SPC Chris Williams made Feb 2 at 2017 9:20 PM

SPC Chris Williams — Thu, 02 Feb 2017 21:20:24 -0500

Well they never make movies about combat mechanics, supply Jerusalem or dfac personal. R.e.m.f.'s just don't have exciting jobs. For the most part.

Response by GySgt Melissa Gravila made Feb 2 at 2017 9:34 PM

GySgt Melissa Gravila — Thu, 02 Feb 2017 21:34:19 -0500

Ok now folks, I have 1 name for yall Steven Seagull- in his heyday was a (drumroll) COOK named Casey something or other- so stop the culinary bashing alright? LOL If yall keep this up, I'm gonna have to pull this car over and put everybody in time out!
Semper Fi

Response by MAJ Glenn Lasater made Feb 2 at 2017 9:56 PM

MAJ Glenn Lasater — Thu, 02 Feb 2017 21:56:18 -0500

****CORRECTED POST****

I found this editorial several years ago and although it's been attributed to many authors, the most common one a Marine Corps Chaplain, this is the original as written by the author. For me, it expresses appreciation to the unsung heroes that provide 24/7 support to our fighting force around the world. A poser would never understand or appreciate the dedication of the men and women performing these critical jobs.

Anthony Barton Hinkle

“War makes strange giant creatures out of the little routine men who inhabit the Earth” ~ WWII correspondent, Ernie Pyle.

WHAT IS A VET?

Some veterans bear visible signs of their service: a missing limb, a jagged scar, a look in the eye. Others may carry the evidence inside them: a pin holding a bone together, a piece of shrapnel in the leg – or perhaps another sort of inner steel: the soul’s alloy forged in the refinery of adversity. Except in parades, however, the men and women who have kept America safe wear no badge or emblem. You can’t tell a vet just by looking.

What is a vet?

He is the cop on the beat who spent six months in Saudi Arabia sweating two gallons a day making sure the armored personnel carriers didn’t run out of fuel.

He is the Nebraska farmer who worries every year that this time, the bank really will foreclose.

He is the barroom loudmouth, dumber than five wooden planks, whose overgrown frat-boy behavior is outweighed a hundred times in the cosmic scales by four hours of exquisite bravery near the 39th Parallel.

She – or he – is the nurse who fought against futility and went to sleep sobbing every night for two solid years in Da Nang.

He is the POW who went away one person and came back another or didn’t come back at all.

He is the Quantico drill instructor who never has seen combat – but who has saved countless lives by turning slouchy no-counts into soldiers, and teaching them to watch each others’ backs.

He is the parade-riding legionnaire who pins on his ribbons and medals with a prosthetic hand.

He is the career quartermaster who watches the ribbons and medals pass him by.

He is the anonymous hero in the Tomb of the Unknowns, whose presence at Arlington National Cemetery must forever preserve the memory of all the other anonymous heroes whose valor died unrecognized with them on the battlefield or in the ocean’s sunless deep.

He is the old guy bagging groceries at the supermarket – palsied now and aggravatingly slow – who helped liberate a Nazi death camp, and who wishes all day long his wife were still alive to hold him when the nightmares come.

He is an ordinary and yet an extraordinary human being – a person who offered some of his life’s most vital years in the service of his country, and who sacrificed his ambitions so others would not have to sacrifice theirs. He is a soldier and a savior and a sword against the darkness, and he is nothing more than the finest, greatest testimony on behalf of the finest, greatest nation ever known.

Published by Richmond Times-Dispatch November 11, 1995

Response by SPC Louis Copechal made Feb 2 at 2017 10:31 PM

SPC Louis Copechal — Thu, 02 Feb 2017 22:31:42 -0500

My brother brought this very question to me. He asked me to talk to this so called "sniper". This young boy thought he was going to get away with pulling the chit over my eyes. Lol. Started asking him the normal questions about his basic, then out of the blue he popped off with " I have multiple confirmed kills and there was this 1 time where I went almost a week without food and water just to take out this one target! I asked him if he wanted to tell me the truth and he stuck with his story and how he got almost sexual lyrics excited EVERYTIME he was asked to go and take out specific targets. I went back into my apt and got all of my medals and certificates and asked him if he knew what they where? Of course... nope. Once I started questioning him hard he started getting fidgety and said .... well there was this and this and this. Once I called his bluff it was all over he said: "please don't kick my ass I'm sorry man I wasn't trying to disrespect!" I told him I don't EVER WANT to hear of this bullshit filled fluff again. Found out later on he was a washout of basic. He couldn't handle the stress of being yelled at. I said I don't ever want to hear he was spreading this trash around again.... So yeah it happens but it's all about how YOU handle it.

Response by SPC Erik Frame made Feb 2 at 2017 10:41 PM

SPC Erik Frame — Thu, 02 Feb 2017 22:41:11 -0500

Response by SrA Dave Orr made Feb 2 at 2017 10:44 PM

SrA Dave Orr — Thu, 02 Feb 2017 22:44:31 -0500

When I tell people I was a firefighter in the AF I always hear, "they have those"? SMH

Response by SPC Andrew Craig made Feb 2 at 2017 10:48 PM

SPC Andrew Craig — Thu, 02 Feb 2017 22:48:01 -0500

because when you say "i was a 63 sierra" everyone gets the same look followed by "whats that?". after you explain that i was a mechanic, they just sort of assume you were some schlep.

Response by PO3 Dennis Kordes made Feb 2 at 2017 11:14 PM

PO3 Dennis Kordes — Thu, 02 Feb 2017 23:14:52 -0500

As a Corpsman The first commendation I was awarded was for giving a backrub to a retired General. I tell that story first it really Cuts back on further questions

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 3 at 2017 3:15 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 03 Feb 2017 03:15:24 -0500

I wish I could meet one of these special folks. It obviously means so much to them, I am sure the back story they have created must be hilarious to the initiated. I would spur them on, pushing for details until they panicked and ran, but I don't think I would ever truly call them out. That would ruin the fun.

Response by LtCol Dennis Ivan made Feb 3 at 2017 9:04 AM

LtCol Dennis Ivan — Fri, 03 Feb 2017 09:04:25 -0500

I think its simple.

1. Thats what will get them the most attention and the least scrutiny from the unknowing public.

2. Thats all they know. After all, most are just embellishing stories from movies, the internet, or whatever.
No one makes movies about the Co GySgt, the radioman, cook, supply, or all even the basic rifleman.
They would not know what to say of confronted by what they did in those MOS's.
But they can talk about how hard BUDS is by watching GI Jane. Or that raid in Afghanistan by watching Lone Survivor. No movies are made about Pvt Smucketelli standing guard at a VCP or sitting in the COC looking at TACChat for 6 hours.

Response by SSG Chris McKee made Feb 3 at 2017 9:08 AM

SSG Chris McKee — Fri, 03 Feb 2017 09:08:59 -0500

Maybe they just aren't sure what they were. After 10 years of user level maintenance I thought I was a mechanic!

Response by SPC Thomas Carroll made Feb 3 at 2017 10:19 AM

SPC Thomas Carroll — Fri, 03 Feb 2017 10:19:48 -0500

Because the SF, Rangers, or SEALS, get the Headlines. Ribbons out of order is how they get caught.

Response by PO1 Ron Clark made Feb 3 at 2017 10:40 AM

PO1 Ron Clark — Fri, 03 Feb 2017 10:40:42 -0500

Most of the Posers use "I was the sole survivor"! That way its more harder to verify and they dont have to worry about getting anyone to corroborate their lies and alibis! Lol!

Response by 2ndLt Matthew Pipoly made Feb 3 at 2017 11:11 AM

2ndLt Matthew Pipoly — Fri, 03 Feb 2017 11:11:53 -0500

That's a pretty good reason. You've heard the term "dress for the job you want". I doubt anyone who dreams of/wishes they'd joined the service wants to be a military clerk, or cook or mechanic. They imagine themselves in the "sexy" jobs. It makes them feel cool to tell people they're SF.

Response by CSM Thomas McGarry made Feb 3 at 2017 12:10 PM

CSM Thomas McGarry — Fri, 03 Feb 2017 12:10:49 -0500

I guess if your going to lie you might as well lie on a large scale-No one will be impressed if you say you were a Cook (no offense to Cooks!) in an Arm Reserve Unit!!

Response by SMSgt John Galloway made Feb 3 at 2017 12:12 PM

SMSgt John Galloway — Fri, 03 Feb 2017 12:12:23 -0500

They are not aware of the difference between a war story and a fairy tale .

Response by CW4 Peek Smith made Feb 3 at 2017 12:25 PM

CW4 Peek Smith — Fri, 03 Feb 2017 12:25:54 -0500

SF? Ranger? Force Recon? Naw man the real badasses now are cyber guys and drone operators. That's what I'd tell everyone if I were making it up!

Response by SPC Rick LaBonte made Feb 3 at 2017 12:37 PM

SPC Rick LaBonte — Fri, 03 Feb 2017 12:37:54 -0500

They are trying to impress. The easiest way to trip them up is ask for an MOS, nobody forgets their MOS but they draw a blank!

Response by SPC Rick LaBonte made Feb 3 at 2017 12:59 PM

SPC Rick LaBonte — Fri, 03 Feb 2017 12:59:28 -0500

The tone they tell their exploits with gives them away often. Both my uncle and my ex father in law are Vietnam vets. My ex father in law has a Purple Heart and walks with a limp. We were visiting the one time, he was already up that morning and sitting in their screen porch when Michelle and I sat down. He proceeded to mater-of -factly, almost like discussing yesterday's news tell me about it. Nothing spectacular, he was a few weeks away from rotating back to the states, they were finishing a routine mop up excersize when a mine went off and he caught the brunt of it, spent the next year in a hospital. As he went to the kitchen for another cup of coffee, Michelle looked at me wide-eyed and said"Dad never talked about that!". That's the type of actual story that is true, posers tend to brag

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 3 at 2017 2:01 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 03 Feb 2017 14:01:14 -0500

I hate to say this but...throat punch

Response by SSG Bob Ralston made Feb 3 at 2017 3:40 PM

SSG Bob Ralston — Fri, 03 Feb 2017 15:40:27 -0500

I have said that a million times myself. Whats wrong with being a grunt.

Response by SrA James Cannon made Feb 3 at 2017 4:10 PM

SrA James Cannon — Fri, 03 Feb 2017 16:10:49 -0500

Why claim to be a combat pastry chef when you can be Ranger, SF, and EOD? Check out this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bCnzi6L_BsM

It's Stolen and I Know It

http://rangerup.com presents our homage to Stolen Valor. Inspired by LMFAO's Sexy and I know It. Performed by Big Ol Band.

Response by Sgt Daniel Lee made Feb 3 at 2017 4:12 PM

Sgt Daniel Lee — Fri, 03 Feb 2017 16:12:34 -0500

Well duh lol. Not a mystery, kind of a go big or go home mentality

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 3 at 2017 4:25 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 03 Feb 2017 16:25:39 -0500

Because those are the stories that movies are made of thus that is all they know.

Response by AN Brian Fast made Feb 3 at 2017 5:14 PM

AN Brian Fast — Fri, 03 Feb 2017 17:14:21 -0500

Because they are cowards! If they say they are any of the special forces they face less scrutiny.
If you are prior service, you know fully well your likely to be handed an ass whoopin if they really are.
If your a civilian, you won't question them because of the reputation of special forces.
Lastly- SEALS are now, always have been and will always continue to be the badest of the bad!

Response by SPC Matthew Brinkley made Feb 3 at 2017 5:21 PM

SPC Matthew Brinkley — Fri, 03 Feb 2017 17:21:24 -0500

I was a real combat medic in the 1ID. That's enough hell for anyone I don't need to say anything else.

Response by SPC Matthew Brinkley made Feb 3 at 2017 5:23 PM

SPC Matthew Brinkley — Fri, 03 Feb 2017 17:23:00 -0500

Hell no

Response by SFC Familia Gonzalez made Feb 3 at 2017 6:30 PM

SFC Familia Gonzalez — Fri, 03 Feb 2017 18:30:40 -0500

Because movies are made based on true stories of men that do heroic things in SF, Rangers, SEALS, Infantry, etc. You never hear about a movie about a cook or a light wheel mechanic. No offense, but it's a fact. Having said that, we did have Airborne Ranger Cooks in the 82nd hence who knows.

Response by SMSgt Mike Wood made Feb 3 at 2017 6:40 PM

SMSgt Mike Wood — Fri, 03 Feb 2017 18:40:19 -0500

Not only that, they can pick up quite a bit of info by watching the movies. Have you all noticed, they hardly ever have their awards right. They'll be out of order on the wrong side. ANY Veteran that looks at them or talks to them for a few minutes will usually out the phony. That "Master Sergeant" has his Combat Medical Badge, Airborne jump wings and weapons qualification on the wrong side.

Response by PO3 Jose Torres made Feb 3 at 2017 7:12 PM

PO3 Jose Torres — Fri, 03 Feb 2017 19:12:46 -0500

My favorite is when I was in a conversation with an individual claiming to be a Marine, after a few questionable comments, I ask how it felt to earn an E.G.A.? His response was "What's an EGA?" Question answered...

Response by SPC Craig Hill made Feb 3 at 2017 7:38 PM

SPC Craig Hill — Fri, 03 Feb 2017 19:38:32 -0500

Easiest way to not be able to give legit details is to say you legally can't!

Response by SrA Donavan Kenney made Feb 3 at 2017 8:02 PM

SrA Donavan Kenney — Fri, 03 Feb 2017 20:02:57 -0500

Also because this is what these scumbags see in the movies! 9 out of 10 movies even get it wrong- easy to remember units and such from a movie!

Response by PFC Scott Worsham made Feb 3 at 2017 8:04 PM

PFC Scott Worsham — Fri, 03 Feb 2017 20:04:40 -0500

They watch to much tv and to many movies and that's all they know

Response by Cpl Ernest Thom made Feb 3 at 2017 8:25 PM

Cpl Ernest Thom — Fri, 03 Feb 2017 20:25:06 -0500

F$CK NO

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 3 at 2017 8:32 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 03 Feb 2017 20:32:37 -0500

Sometimes our Veterans show their asses. Do not do these things on cam. Sometimes you can eat crow. Handle these situations appropriately. Showing off is not cool. Besides a guy with that many medals is kind of comical. Only an obviously sane person will get what is coming to him. The mentally ill and seniors need to be dealt with discretely. Class always wins.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 3 at 2017 8:58 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 03 Feb 2017 20:58:17 -0500

Because Hollywood glamourizes the shit out of elite units... If I was wanting to impress people (which I think the whole objectives of these idiots who pretend to be military is), I am not going to tell the people that I am trying to impress that I am some sort of support MOS... That's not impressive enough for them... they want to be the guy who has 200 confirmed kills and are considered bad-asses... The problem is, they don't want to put in the work that it takes to be an elite bad-ass... If the did, they would realize that it's not all glamorous like Hollywood makes it out to be.
The problem that they run into, is when they ACTUALLY meet a vet/service member. I can pick an active duty service member out of a crowd in an airport from 150 feet away... It's not about what we are wearing, it's how we carry ourselves. When I see one in uniform that seems out of place, I will generally ask them some questions that they could only answer if they were actually military. Questions like "What post are you headed to?", "What's your MOS?", "What unit are you in? Where's that?" etc...
Usually, the only ones who are wearing their uniform while traveling are fresh out of AIT. They are happy to answer your questions. They will also have folders with them carrying their orders. If you identify yourself as a veteran to them, they will generally have questions for you, because you have knowledge or experience... they NEVER try to one-up you. I helped out 4 soldiers heading from Atlanta to El Paso... I started talking to them, they asked me questions about Fort Bliss... I bought one of them dinner... it was nice. Not once did I tell them any war stories, or try to impress them with my bad-assery. A real veteran won't do that.

Response by Cpl Dennis F. made Feb 3 at 2017 9:37 PM

Cpl Dennis F. — Fri, 03 Feb 2017 21:37:34 -0500

Because if they could read and write competently or safely operate machinery......They could be clerks or Motor-T :)

Response by CW3 Edison Phillips made Feb 3 at 2017 10:19 PM

CW3 Edison Phillips — Fri, 03 Feb 2017 22:19:25 -0500

Because these wanna be dirt bag's only association with our military is watching over the top drama war movies. If they only knew what it is really like they would soil their panties. A real soldier never asks for nor seeks recognition. They just do their jobs to the best of their training and abilities. I was surprised at the recognition I received but still proud of what we achieved and I made sure that those under me who went over and beyond in doing their duty were well recognized for their unselfish work and dedication regardless of their rank. These wanna be's should be hauled off to spend a few days in the toughest environments we have served in to teach them a lesson.

This is from a old-time, Vietnam Vet, 22 year, mean Ammunition Chief Warrant Officer 3.

Response by SPC Daniel Bost made Feb 3 at 2017 10:30 PM

SPC Daniel Bost — Fri, 03 Feb 2017 22:30:47 -0500

I guess they have a feeling of inadequacy in their life and feel the need to embellish great deeds of heroism. For the most part I enjoyed my time in the Army, 1989-98. I started out as 16R and reclassified to 96B. Nothing fancy there, quit boring at times. Now and then I meet up some younger vets and sometimes they question me. I don't have any old uniforms left and I wouldn't wear them out in public if I had them. I don't remember lot of stuff, too many concussions and and getting hurt in training exercises. I've been asked how many people I've killed.. I reply with "Oh I've killed hundreds of pop-up and paper people." Get the deer in headlights on that..

Response by SP6 William Guadalupe made Feb 3 at 2017 11:07 PM

SP6 William Guadalupe — Fri, 03 Feb 2017 23:07:47 -0500

I served as 63B

Response by CSM Charles Hayden made Feb 3 at 2017 11:22 PM

CSM Charles Hayden — Fri, 03 Feb 2017 23:22:17 -0500

Simple, didn't you want to be a Ranger, SEAL or SF? @ PFC Eric Minchey

My 'football shoulder' deterred me after passing the SF PT test in 1963.

Response by SGT Floyd Shown made Feb 3 at 2017 11:31 PM

SGT Floyd Shown — Fri, 03 Feb 2017 23:31:24 -0500

I was in 1st SOCOM from 85-87. Whoop-dee-do. I am proud of that service, but all I did was mess with minds and do a lot of traveling. Yes, I was the NCOIC of the propaganda development team, 9th PSYOP, 4th POG. I never kicked in a door. I never got deployed to a combat zone (the timing was off). I have the SOCOM patch tattooed on my left shoulder because I am proud of what I did do. I was able to work side by side with some of the finest soldiers in the Army. My 2 proudest things were a certain classified document I researched and wrote and working as an interrogator at the SERE course. This is where I gained the greatest love and respect for all in uniform. What these men and women went through (some at my hands) for the love of their country brought me to tears at every graduation ceremony. For this reason, I absolutely DESPISE a poser. I EARNED the right to wear the uniform. Those soldiers I worked with EARNED that right as well. Stolen valor is exactly that. It is stolen from us all.

Response by SFC George Smith made Feb 4 at 2017 12:59 AM

SFC George Smith — Sat, 04 Feb 2017 00:59:29 -0500

what a Bunch of clowns...

Response by SPC James Gartland made Feb 4 at 2017 1:02 AM

SPC James Gartland — Sat, 04 Feb 2017 01:02:55 -0500

And while there are vets who change branches and get other services awards,posers often claim stuff like "airborne ranger seal operator!

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 4 at 2017 7:34 AM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 04 Feb 2017 07:34:57 -0500

So here is my question. If in the attempt to "Expose" stolen valor, and you totally get it wrong, should that other vet get one free punch on you? I don't wear clothing that marks me as military when I don't have too, but one day I saw a E-5 hassling this older guy about his antiquated uniform. It was Memorial day, and the older guy was out of shape, kinda chubby and would have send any 1SG into fits about wear and fit had the old guy still been in.

So as the punk E-5 taunted this older guy, I simply went up and asked him what if he had a VA card...which he did.

Now in my book, the E-5, should stand there with his hands behind his back and let the old dude punch him. Make sure when you get your pride in place and call someone out on stolen Valor, that You're right. If not, you dishonored yourself, your uniform and the flag. You're soldiers not impersonation investigators.

Response by PFC Timothy Rutledge made Feb 4 at 2017 8:30 AM

PFC Timothy Rutledge — Sat, 04 Feb 2017 08:30:06 -0500

To answer that question you have to ask another question. Why do they pretend to be something they are not? Usually 2 reasons. They are scamming for discounts and deals offered to the military, or they are looking for acceptance. The first is obvious. The second reason usually comes from low self esteem an the need to feel important to others. A SENSE OF PRIDE AND fulfillment that comes when people Believe them. Might even boost their ego a bit knowing they are getting away with it.

Response by LCpl Darrell J. Farley Jr. made Feb 4 at 2017 8:33 AM

LCpl Darrell J. Farley Jr. — Sat, 04 Feb 2017 08:33:47 -0500

It covers their own insecurities. They doubt their own manliness for having never served, so they create their own heroics to cover it up

Response by SSgt Mac McNeil made Feb 4 at 2017 9:26 AM

SSgt Mac McNeil — Sat, 04 Feb 2017 09:26:52 -0500

Who would regale us with chilling tales of the motor pool, or Civil Engineering, or Supply? We NEED these idiots to remind us that heroes are CREATED at the local Army Navy ribbon rack supply. ..
Hate posers

Response by SSG Keith Phillips made Feb 4 at 2017 9:46 AM

SSG Keith Phillips — Sat, 04 Feb 2017 09:46:50 -0500

Because they are pussies!

Response by SPC Wade Behselich made Feb 4 at 2017 10:13 AM

SPC Wade Behselich — Sat, 04 Feb 2017 10:13:39 -0500

My girlfriend is a schedule coordinator for an assisted living company, she was interviewing a guy who said he was an 88M in the Beloit WI unit, my old unit. She asked if he knew any of the people from the unit that she knows and replied "no they all must be new guys" she died back with " no they are not." She let it go for a bit and then asked what trucks he drives for the Army, his response " a Kenworth 10 spd." Then she lit him up. They did a more in-depth background check after the interview and found out he has multiple felonies. There's 2 units in Beloit, a guard unit and a reserve unit. Only one is an 88M unit from what I understand. Please correct me if I'm wrong.
Bubba

Response by GySgt Lawrence Clark made Feb 4 at 2017 10:59 AM

GySgt Lawrence Clark — Sat, 04 Feb 2017 10:59:00 -0500

I've often said the same thing. Every time I ask a former Marine from my era, "what did you do in the Corps or what was your MOS ?" I get the same response most of the time: I was in Recon." Never found Never a truck driver, cook, supply or mechanic. I began life as an 0311 and when you talk to these guys you realize they don't know squat- just generalities. I overheard two former Marines talking while I was at the VA, They were from my era and discussing Nam. The one said he was at Khe Sanh and then asked partner about "those two hills" and what they were called. He said something like "Hill 323." They were 881 North and 881 South. Just a small example of bullshit you hear. But these guys who have the balls to put on a uniform and parade around in public are a special kind of fruitcake.

Response by PFC James Druding made Feb 4 at 2017 1:03 PM

PFC James Druding — Sat, 04 Feb 2017 13:03:07 -0500

all i know is being 11B i was always friend with the cooks and my medics.so much props to those who kept us fed and stitched up.fuck stolen valor.stop being a pussy and and go raise that hand.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 4 at 2017 1:43 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 04 Feb 2017 13:43:05 -0500

gives for a wide variety of lies....

Response by SGT Joseph Miller made Feb 4 at 2017 1:48 PM

SGT Joseph Miller — Sat, 04 Feb 2017 13:48:45 -0500

My favorite I ran into was a green beret sniper assigned to submarines
During vietnam telling his stories of how many people he killed to some people at a circle k by the navy base where I live, so I stood back listening to his stories of how he was wounded and medically retired from navy and i said "so what did y'all do sail the sub up the mekong delta and you shot charlie from the conning tower of the submarine" he said no he would infiltrate from sub and shoot high value targets I said he was full of shit and a liar and asked to see his ID to which he said he lost it and was waiting on paperwork from pentagon to get a new one as it was hard to get one because of all the top secret shit he's done. I then showed him my CAC and my military police LEOSA credentials and told everyone there ge was a lYong POS green berets are not assigned to the navy, and all you have to do to get an ID when you lose it is file a police report for lost ID to military police and go to ID office and get a new one. But he said I didn't know what I was talking about because I never did top secret classified missions for the CIA. go figure

Response by MSgt Michael Vassallo made Feb 4 at 2017 2:14 PM

MSgt Michael Vassallo — Sat, 04 Feb 2017 14:14:43 -0500

There is so much news about SF ops that they can make up stories almost anyone will believe. I did my 22 years setting up tactical communications systems for anyone that needed.them. nothing special just did what I could so others could do there part. We all learned that one message that didn't get through could mean life or death . Don't understabd.

Response by SrA Dean Updegraff made Feb 4 at 2017 3:32 PM

SrA Dean Updegraff — Sat, 04 Feb 2017 15:32:28 -0500

I was a 63B in the OKANG. I also served two years in the USAF. Dang if I can remember the career designation for the AF. I was at Minot AFB FAN and Clark AFB. Served in SAC and TAC.
A number of years ago a guy 7 years younger than me swore up an down he was in Veitnam. Now I served 1974 -1978. I was too young for the Vietnam police action(war). I called him on it. When I signed up for the draft in March of 1973 the told me they were drawing down and I would not be drafted. I went to basic in Jan of 74. Basic was trimmed back from 12 weeks to 8 weeks because no one was being sent to Vietnam. This guy went so far as to show me a scar from what he said was a pungie stick wound. I told him he would have lost his leg from infection as they dipped them in human crap. More than once I told him he was a poser. The thing that got me I told him I was too young to go to Vietnam at 18 and asked him how in the hell did he go when he was all of 11 years old.
His lies drove me nuts.

Response by SGT Harley Ruger made Feb 4 at 2017 3:49 PM

SGT Harley Ruger — Sat, 04 Feb 2017 15:49:13 -0500

Because no one thinks that being a truck driver will get them laid.

Response by SSG John Arneman made Feb 4 at 2017 4:02 PM

SSG John Arneman — Sat, 04 Feb 2017 16:02:29 -0500

They try to enhance their dream lives by being a super trooper rather then the plain live they live.

Response by MAJ David Vermillion made Feb 4 at 2017 6:09 PM

MAJ David Vermillion — Sat, 04 Feb 2017 18:09:07 -0500

They use these titles because of prestige it brings to them. Military posers are trying to gain unearned glory.

Response by PO2 Kayla Modschiedler made Feb 4 at 2017 6:23 PM

PO2 Kayla Modschiedler — Sat, 04 Feb 2017 18:23:31 -0500

I want one of these guys to tell me he or she cleaned a toilet. I would totally believe them. I cleaned out a conex box full of kerosene or propane (I reallydon't remember other than it could go boom) in 100+ degree heat. I am the bomb (no pun intended lol).

Response by SGT Thomas Sandoval made Feb 4 at 2017 7:41 PM

SGT Thomas Sandoval — Sat, 04 Feb 2017 19:41:00 -0500

I've met more S.F. since I've been out and we had our barracks right next door to the 3/7 S.F.G. in Panama. It's like now if we get into a conversation and they tell me they were special OP S I tune out. Me myself I'm former M.P. and no one ever claims to be an M.P. but an M.P.

Response by MSG Larry Lopez made Feb 5 at 2017 6:00 AM

MSG Larry Lopez — Sun, 05 Feb 2017 06:00:55 -0500

I just love the fact that these posers love shinny badges...lots and lots of them.

Response by SPC Kevin Ford made Feb 5 at 2017 11:02 AM

SPC Kevin Ford — Sun, 05 Feb 2017 11:02:17 -0500

Sounds about right. I suspect they do it for positive attention and EoD, SF, Ranger, SEAL, etc. get the most positive attention.

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Feb 5 at 2017 11:31 AM

Lt Col Jim Coe — Sun, 05 Feb 2017 11:31:55 -0500

The posers seem to love "bling" and "do-dads" thinking they look more heroic if their uniforms are covered with stuff. They pick the Army uniform because that service often has more badges, ribbons, and other accoutrements than the other services (Air Force may have more ribbons). It's not a hit on the Army, but just the way the services do things. Also stories in the public domain from Soldiers are more readily available than those of other services.

It would be more difficult to convincing act and sound like a Navy Submariner if you actually ran into a Navy person with any submarine knowledge or experience. One probably can't adequately describe landing and taking off from an aircraft carrier unless they have actually done it making Naval Aviation less susceptible of spoofing.

A lot of Air Force work is pretty mundane and seldom lends itself to heroic stories in the press. PJs do save lives and see combat. Special forces aircraft and helicopters fly some very challenging missions. Fighter pilots would have great air-to-air combat stories if there was a real opposition air force in Iraq or Afghanistan--there isn't. Air mobility pilots probably have a few good stories about airdrops and landings into challenging airfields. All of these require specialized technical knowledge to tell the story convincingly. Most posers wouldn't have that knowledge. Certainly a real airman could uncover a fake in a couple of minutes' conversation. Of course, the Air Force uniform is almost as plain as the Navy, so those interested in bling wouldn't be attracted to it.

Response by MSG Dan Castaneda made Feb 5 at 2017 12:31 PM

MSG Dan Castaneda — Sun, 05 Feb 2017 12:31:13 -0500

I tell people who ask me, that I play the Tuba for the Army Band. Not to many questions after that.

Response by GySgt Gary McLaughlin made Feb 5 at 2017 1:35 PM

GySgt Gary McLaughlin — Sun, 05 Feb 2017 13:35:29 -0500

These losers couldn't survive in the military. It's sad that ANYONE can go on line and buy medals, ribbons, hell, even a full uniform, without proving they rate them. How about this, if you find a "poser," he should be charged with impersonating a hero, the courts should sentence them to a week long boot camp, if caught again, add two weeks every time they are caught.

Response by SPC Steven Allmon made Feb 5 at 2017 1:59 PM

SPC Steven Allmon — Sun, 05 Feb 2017 13:59:39 -0500

Although just a 19k here, I do remember singing cadence at Knox..."I wanna be an airborne tanker!"

Response by Kermit Bramlett made Feb 5 at 2017 4:03 PM

Kermit Bramlett — Sun, 05 Feb 2017 16:03:51 -0500

These sum bags have no reason to impersonate anyone in the service. It Erks me to no end to see this.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 5 at 2017 4:21 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 05 Feb 2017 16:21:56 -0500

Hell I am proud as hell if my service but most people wouldn't even recognize this retired vet. I get tired of the did you ever kill anyone. It's suck a stupid question. Can't stand civilians 90% of the time and the ones I do don't ask stupid questions. They appreciate my service and drive on that is it.

Response by MAJ Ronnie Reams made Feb 5 at 2017 4:25 PM

MAJ Ronnie Reams — Sun, 05 Feb 2017 16:25:05 -0500

I never said anything, but when my Dad was alive he lived near Little Creek Amphib base and I would go there to get his meds. You can get to Med without actually going on base. I would see some SEAL posers there once in a while wearing Enlisted uniforms with Gold Tridents (Officer) instead of the Enlisted Silver Tridents. With Team 6 rumored to be there, surprised no one ever busted them. Maybe they did and there were a lot of wanna bes.

Response by SGT Kurt Lembcke made Feb 5 at 2017 5:26 PM

SGT Kurt Lembcke — Sun, 05 Feb 2017 17:26:56 -0500

Anyone who's prior service will immediately spot the errors in the uniforms of these two; full medals mixed with ribbons on Class A's, shoulder cords on the wrong shoulder & don't belong, supposed special forces wearing a black beret (should be green), etc. not even close to reality.

Response by SSgt Jim Gilmore made Feb 5 at 2017 7:25 PM

SSgt Jim Gilmore — Sun, 05 Feb 2017 19:25:50 -0500

No Ranger, Seal or SF in this guy...

What chaps me is the ones using it for monetary gain.

Response by SPC Johnney Abbott made Feb 5 at 2017 7:28 PM

SPC Johnney Abbott — Sun, 05 Feb 2017 19:28:05 -0500

I've asked this before and all I can come up with is it's for the glory. Not too much "glory" in cook or supply. Now before it starts, I'm not bashing Mos, just using them as examples. Trust me, as an MP it wasn't nothing glorious!

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 5 at 2017 10:31 PM

COL Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 05 Feb 2017 22:31:02 -0500

They are wannabes'. They like the buzz of the soldier/sailor etc. and they like the buzz of the military special ops even more.

Response by LT John Ritenour made Feb 5 at 2017 10:33 PM

LT John Ritenour — Sun, 05 Feb 2017 22:33:30 -0500

As military professionals - we sometimes have to " suck it up" - this goes for Commissioned Ranks as well as Enlisted. I offer the following story: I'm a medically retired Navy 03 (LT). At one point I was the only service member assigned to an office. Once a year, NMCRS (Navy Marine Corps Relief Society) sends out a solicitation for funds. I've been very blessed in my life - and I believe it's my responsibility as a Commissioned Officer to help out those in need. But I also believe good deeds are best done anonymously. Unless there's a compelling reason, I'd rather let people never know who helped them - I don't want anyone to feel obligated towards me - but rather when they are back on their feet - they will be grateful for the help they receive and will in turn help a fellow sailor. Having said all that - the OIC at our Philadelphia Office - made a special trip to the Norfolk Naval Shipyard Office to commmend me because we were 500% over goal for Navy Relief. I was embarrassed because everyone then knew it was me - and all I'd really done was donate two days pay to a worthy cause.
This situation (unwanted awards and praise ) isn't unique to the military. It goes on in the private sector as well. Bosses love to see their subordinates get awards - whether we (subordinates) want them or not because it helps their appraisals as well. So - even you aren't excited about the award - the command is using you to inspire and motivate more junior personal. As we progress up the leadership ladder - whether Commmisioned, Warrant, or Enlisted - our duties to provide leadership to junior personnel increase.

Response by LT John Ritenour made Feb 5 at 2017 10:46 PM

LT John Ritenour — Sun, 05 Feb 2017 22:46:42 -0500

I'm a LT (03). If I witnessed an E2 - being disrespectful to a NCO/Petty Officer, I'm going to wait and see what happens. If the If the senior person does nothing about it, I'd write them up - for failure to excercise proper leadership. How they deal with the problem is up to them - but I'd expect it to be dealt with promptly. If an E2 was disrespectful to me - I'd direct my Leading Petty Officer/Chief to investigate ASAP. I would inform the individual immediately that I expect that they will always display proper respect to senior personnel - whether officer or enlisted. Allowing my Personnel to investigate before I take action my find that there are mitigating circumstances - I'd consider the indisivduals junior rank - I would expect my Division leadership to see the problem was dealt with effectively and promptly.

Response by SFC Joseph Weber made Feb 5 at 2017 11:00 PM

SFC Joseph Weber — Sun, 05 Feb 2017 23:00:24 -0500

Everyone wants to be Chuck Norris, not Pauly Shore.

Response by SGM Debra Bradshaw made Feb 5 at 2017 11:43 PM

SGM Debra Bradshaw — Sun, 05 Feb 2017 23:43:50 -0500

They always say – the bigger the lie, the more people will believe it.

Response by PVT David Racette made Feb 6 at 2017 2:31 AM

PVT David Racette — Mon, 06 Feb 2017 02:31:14 -0500

If your going to pose as a military person,you must be the best of the best ,who wants to be a normal joe ,they want to impress to the utmost

Response by PVT David Racette made Feb 6 at 2017 2:39 AM

PVT David Racette — Mon, 06 Feb 2017 02:39:11 -0500

Thing is I dont think I ever left.,not mentally anyway

Response by SFC Rick H made Feb 6 at 2017 9:52 AM

SFC Rick H — Mon, 06 Feb 2017 09:52:39 -0500

I trust you are quite correct in your analysis. Lets face it, how interested would your average civilian be, if a soldier were to tell that civilian, I'm a cook, or mechanic, or truck driver. The colors and medals and pins are all " chick magnets ." Unfortunately for most of them, they did not have the heart to earn any of it and some perhaps still live with their mom or in their mom's basement. I sent a lot of momma's boys home in my 24 years...

Response by SFC Dennis A. made Feb 6 at 2017 12:23 PM

SFC Dennis A. — Mon, 06 Feb 2017 12:23:22 -0500

All of the movies and TV shows are about the Seal's, SF, Green, Rangers etc. and not about the average everyday service member and the importance of the jobs that they perform. Most people don't see the glory in cooking breakfast, issuing supplies, building roads, breaching obstacles and so on but where would any of the services be without those people?

Response by SSG Lon Watson made Feb 6 at 2017 3:21 PM

SSG Lon Watson — Mon, 06 Feb 2017 15:21:02 -0500

My story is amazing on its own merits that never add anything. I retired from the Army in 2002 as a SSG 74D NBC guy. I get a cool contractor job training fire, police, first responders all over the country in WMD detection and decontamination in major terror events. I live in big hotels all over the country windam, Hilton, Merriot, etc. Cincinnati, Louisville, long beach, etc. great gig! Then the funding tanks in 2008 and I get laid off. I call up the army and have myself recalled to active duty as a retiree recall soldier (it's like IRR). 87 days later I'm back in, 3 weeks after that I'm downrange in Afghanistan. I'm 44 years old and I'm in counter IED. A colonel downrange liked my resume and wanted me because of my extensive advanced WMD background. I drove the CIED TF Commander, deputy, and staff. I also drove and protected EOD guys working post blast bomb scenes. I once parked over the severed hand of a suicide bomber. It was a great adventure like getting called up to play in the super bowl because a key player got hurt. Well that's my story! The TRUTH is stranger than fiction.

Response by Mike Martin made Feb 6 at 2017 3:33 PM

Mike Martin — Mon, 06 Feb 2017 15:33:47 -0500

it makes a good story, and not enough people know to call them out in a heartbeat

Response by SFC Jim Ruether made Feb 6 at 2017 4:04 PM

SFC Jim Ruether — Mon, 06 Feb 2017 16:04:30 -0500

WTH did these guys just go to the PX and pick up one of everything they had for the uniform? Why make such a bold proclamation about yourself? Any G.I. worth his boot polish would see through both of these uniforms. I can say that because I was taken in by a poser who wanted to attend a funeral I was participating in with the Minnesota Patriot guard. He wasn't as adorned as these posers but he still pulled one over on the family of the deceased and the Patriot Guard. Finally someone spotted his mistake for even a poser uniform and now he is serving 6 yrs in Stillwater Penitentiary for the fraud he perpetrated on the family and the State of Minnesota. They have been lying for so long they believe their own story.

Response by CWO4 Tim Hecht made Feb 6 at 2017 6:55 PM

CWO4 Tim Hecht — Mon, 06 Feb 2017 18:55:25 -0500

Being one of the "Guys with the gear in the rear, who's job it was to get the stuff to the ones who need it" we don't need to be poseurs! Everyone knows that we are the silent heroes - I always was able to end the discussion on my last cutter thusly about who was most important: It isn't the Machinery Techs and Engineers who run the engines, generators, and provide the electricity for the others; nor was it the deck force who maintained the exterior of the cutter, ran the small boats, or drove the ship; nor was it the Ops Guys who figured out where to go and what to do the get there; no I would say - if I didn't arrange for (and pay for) fuel, lube oil, etc or electronic spares, charts, aviation fuel for the helos, food...you guys know - all the stuff you need to do your jobs - well if we didn't do our jobs you couldn't do yours!

What I think makes someone become a poser is some deep need to feel part of something that they were never able to be part of. I used to feel guilty about my part in Vietnam; spending two years on an aircraft carrier slogging guided missiles; sleeping on a 4" thick foam mattress, eating three hot meals a day. Finally one day I ended the debate (in my mind) - I am a Vietnam War Vet, I did my job to the best of my abilities; no more guilt. It wasn't a whole lot but is was my job.

Response by SFC Jeffrey Barber made Feb 6 at 2017 8:59 PM

SFC Jeffrey Barber — Mon, 06 Feb 2017 20:59:41 -0500

Usually they are handicap or lacking and they admire who they can never become. I always smiled and was friendly with those when I had time. --- Now they are also a group that do it to steel or deceive people for money .... this group needs a stomping.

Response by PO2 Shawn Reed made Feb 6 at 2017 10:38 PM

PO2 Shawn Reed — Mon, 06 Feb 2017 22:38:02 -0500

It's what Patton warned about. 'What will you tell your grand kids about what you did during the great World-war Two?' Well, I shoveled shit in Louisiana...

Response by COL Charles Williams made Feb 7 at 2017 12:02 AM

COL Charles Williams — Tue, 07 Feb 2017 00:02:04 -0500

Go to the VFW or the Legion.... Everyone there is a former Green Beret, Ranger, SEAL... etc... No truck drivers, MPs, Medics, Engineers etc.... PFC Eric Minchey

Response by CPO Raymond Kurtz made Feb 7 at 2017 6:26 AM

CPO Raymond Kurtz — Tue, 07 Feb 2017 06:26:48 -0500

Its also because when questioned they will say their service is classified. The same with the DD-214.

It is interesting that one never sees a Coast Guard poser. I agree that is because it isn't as glamorous as being in Special Operations like the SEALS.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 7 at 2017 6:45 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 07 Feb 2017 06:45:17 -0500

They are narcissists. A narcissist so elevates himself/herself that it is only natural for them to want to seem to have served what they believe is the greatest or best.

Response by Cory Raymer made Feb 7 at 2017 10:27 AM

Cory Raymer — Tue, 07 Feb 2017 10:27:09 -0500

I was a SEAL, Ranger, Delta Force, CIA, KGB plant, while working for Mossad, but had very little time to spend doing much, as I was constantly being flown around the world giving advice and direction to the leaders of 42 nations.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 7 at 2017 12:44 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 07 Feb 2017 12:44:12 -0500

I guess I'm the only one that remembers Steven Segal's primary MOS was a cook. FYI that is where the Navy/Marines get the SEALs.

Response by SrA Ted Wenri made Feb 7 at 2017 6:49 PM

SrA Ted Wenri — Tue, 07 Feb 2017 18:49:03 -0500

Probably because they only see those types of guys on TV, you never see a show about cooks in the military or a documentary about cooks on the Frontline

Response by CW4 Larry Curtis made Feb 7 at 2017 9:16 PM

CW4 Larry Curtis — Tue, 07 Feb 2017 21:16:16 -0500

It really doesn't matter to me if they want to pose as SF or even as a cook. If they weren't there, they weren't there. Even IF a cook's job isn't nearly as dangerous as a front-line rifleman's, it is STILL a thankless miserable job that you have to have a love affair with to endure it. This is not meant to be a belittling statement to anyone...I'm just thinking back on KP duty and how miserable it was when I would really prefer being out at the range sending lead or steel downrange. Cooks are just as professional as the next guy...or should be. But I think you are correct, most posers seem to have an insatiable need to be something so much bigger than they might ever be able to achieve simply because they want to be somewhat guaranteed hero status by those who don't know any better. My opinion, of course. ;)

Response by SPC Russel Brock made Feb 8 at 2017 12:20 AM

SPC Russel Brock — Wed, 08 Feb 2017 00:20:46 -0500

I was a Redleg (13M) and damn proud! I wouldn't want any other MOS...

Response by LCpl Aaron Freeman made Feb 8 at 2017 7:26 AM

LCpl Aaron Freeman — Wed, 08 Feb 2017 07:26:14 -0500

I was a 3381 in the Marine Corps, and I hated every minute of when I was at work! But, I loved my Marine Corps experience!

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 8 at 2017 7:43 AM

CW3 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 08 Feb 2017 07:43:42 -0500

At least it makes it easy to spot them.

Response by GySgt Daniel Chapin made Feb 8 at 2017 8:58 AM

GySgt Daniel Chapin — Wed, 08 Feb 2017 08:58:43 -0500

Because they're fucking morons :-)

Response by SMSgt Mike Wood made Feb 8 at 2017 12:00 PM

SMSgt Mike Wood — Wed, 08 Feb 2017 12:00:02 -0500

There is a guy who was a SEAL that outs these phonies. His rationale is that a lot do it because haven't really accomplished anything in their lives and this gets them some respect. Also, there's the money angle. Tell someone you're a SEAL and that automatically endears trust. These guys don't stop and think about all the people who wore the uniform and a lot of them gave everything. They're usually pretty easy to out if you're a Veteran. As far as anyone asking if I ever killed anyone, that hasn't happened. If ever asked, I've got 2 answers 1.) I was a medic 2.) I stay in the rear, with the gear. Heard that on a movie once.

Response by SrA Alvin Cook made Feb 8 at 2017 4:30 PM

SrA Alvin Cook — Wed, 08 Feb 2017 16:30:10 -0500

They have self esteem issues and are posing as someone Accomplished rather than the everyday soldier/sailor/airman

Response by PV2 Gary Nixon made Feb 8 at 2017 5:21 PM

PV2 Gary Nixon — Wed, 08 Feb 2017 17:21:28 -0500

I'm a space ranger...

Response by SPC Glenn Goss made Feb 8 at 2017 7:30 PM

SPC Glenn Goss — Wed, 08 Feb 2017 19:30:47 -0500

I was a medic. I never left the States. My job was just as important as anyone's while working in a trauma center treating wounded and burned soldiers and Maribes from the Beirut bombing and Grenada invasion. There's nothing not to be proud of if you served.

Response by PV2 Mark Zehner made Feb 8 at 2017 8:30 PM

PV2 Mark Zehner — Wed, 08 Feb 2017 20:30:12 -0500

Cause saying you carried the spare parts for the PRC77 isn't facing down death, against 5000 to your 1!

Response by SrA Steven McGourty made Feb 9 at 2017 1:53 AM

SrA Steven McGourty — Thu, 09 Feb 2017 01:53:26 -0500

I am an Air Force vet. When I enlisted an old wizened NCO gave me some advice that I followed my entire career. " there are 3 people you don't want to piss off the first the finance NCO, they make sure you are paid 2nd The Mess NCIS after all you need to eat and the third is the Medics. after all no matter what you will always need a Doc."

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 9 at 2017 7:38 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 09 Feb 2017 07:38:35 -0500

When the curious ask about my military service I tell them it was the worst and the best time of my life. If they ask if I ever killed anyone I simply ask them " Have you ever thought about having sex with your sister?" Then while they cringe in disgust or give me the "what the hell?" I reply with "It's an uncomfortable question isn't it? Look there are two types of people who will answer that question, the sick and the liars."

Response by SPC Lee Birch made Feb 9 at 2017 8:47 AM

SPC Lee Birch — Thu, 09 Feb 2017 08:47:23 -0500

Because Bitches don't drop their panties for POGs and even civilians know that.

Response by LCpl Ryan Eggers made Feb 9 at 2017 9:43 AM

LCpl Ryan Eggers — Thu, 09 Feb 2017 09:43:38 -0500

Ask them what unit they were with or where they went to recruit training.

Response by SN Josh Hans made Feb 9 at 2017 10:12 AM

SN Josh Hans — Thu, 09 Feb 2017 10:12:24 -0500

Even the non-specific combat rates see war too!!!!!!!!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 9 at 2017 1:08 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 09 Feb 2017 13:08:37 -0500

When I tell them I'm a plumber they look at me like I said I was Delta Force. I have my 101st shoulder sleeve insignia so maybe I should just tell them I do top secret squirrel missions disguised as a plumber.

Response by Cpl Brian Kincaid made Feb 9 at 2017 2:35 PM

Cpl Brian Kincaid — Thu, 09 Feb 2017 14:35:11 -0500

I think they figure that because they lack the "dick presence" most who have served have, they figure they can pull it off with a hyped up story. We all can usually tell who's been in by manner, speech, bearing and attitude. I'm not a combat vet but I am a vet and you never lose that bearing and self discipline and people do see it. I am always asked. The other thing is that vets typically don't concoct grandiose stories and these clowns do.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 9 at 2017 2:51 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 09 Feb 2017 14:51:38 -0500

Name a badass movie about Army cooks.

Response by CPL Mark Andersen made Feb 9 at 2017 3:02 PM

CPL Mark Andersen — Thu, 09 Feb 2017 15:02:50 -0500

Last year I was in Vegas. We went to Hoover Damn. On the way back we saw a place offering helicopter rides, as I had not been in a helicopter since I was in, and my girlfriend had never been on one, we decided to stop.

We went to the office, filled out the paperwork, and paid for our ride. The girl in the office asked if we had ever been in a helicopter before, I said I had been when I was in the Army.

This kid sitting in the waiting area, wearing a digitized desert camo uniform I had never seen before, struck up a conversation with me and my girlfriend, telling me about his exploits as a contractor in Iraq, telling us how he had been shot four of five times. My gut was telling me he had never been out of Nevada, but I was giving him the benefit of the doubt. Then he told me he became a contractor after he failed Marine Corps basic training...at that point I knew he was lying. A Marine, even a scrub who flunked out would not refer to it as basic training.

My best guess is he at one point tried to pretend to be a vet, and got called out, so he changed up his story to being a contractor. To this day I wish I would have called him out on his BS.

Response by SSG David Frackelton made Feb 9 at 2017 3:43 PM

SSG David Frackelton — Thu, 09 Feb 2017 15:43:22 -0500

I tell everyone I was cook in fact I went to food preparation school before my Siani mission. it cuts down on all kinds of questions only problem is when I run into a real cook I don't know what the fuck the Norman Claytor i it cuts down on all kinds of questions only problem is when I run into a real cook I don't know what the fuck their MOS normenclature is. Oh well!

Response by CPT Matt Sebenoler made Feb 9 at 2017 3:43 PM

CPT Matt Sebenoler — Thu, 09 Feb 2017 15:43:34 -0500

Ha! If only I could answer this the way I want to.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 9 at 2017 4:49 PM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 09 Feb 2017 16:49:43 -0500

I was a 55 Bravo but during basic I remember singing cadence at Fort Jackson " I wanna be an Airboure Ranger. Living a life in danger danger...."

Rangers, Snipers, and the likes are always going to havoc someone claiming to be in that class even though they aren't. We are never going to catch them all because they are getting smarter to their game. Plus you have to be careful who you call out, you never know who you are dealing with.

That is why I no longer confront people about anything. I have had guns pulled on my son and I while we were driving because almost hit us and I honked my horn at them to get them to pay attention to their driving. Then they proceeded to chase us.

So be careful and be sure you know who and what you are doing and dealing with.

Response by LCpl Craig Hanson made Feb 9 at 2017 6:42 PM

LCpl Craig Hanson — Thu, 09 Feb 2017 18:42:26 -0500

I was in the USMC from 1969-1972, Vietnam 1970-'71. my MOS was 8541 Scout Sniper (now 0317) and I was with Alpha 1/2 then Golf 2/5. I knew most all the Snipers (small class) but now years later I see Posers saying they were Snipers, but they can't remember anyones name from their class. Yeah, Right!!!!

Response by CPO Craig Conrad made Feb 9 at 2017 7:08 PM

CPO Craig Conrad — Thu, 09 Feb 2017 19:08:39 -0500

Because in my previous life I was someone famous, just like the the other 300,000 people who were the same damn famous person in their privious life.

Response by Kelsey Chlovechok made Feb 9 at 2017 7:35 PM

Kelsey Chlovechok — Thu, 09 Feb 2017 19:35:35 -0500

I think it's because the people who are posing in the first place are desperate for admiration, and what would sound more admirable to them than being applauded for doing something so dangerous and exciting?
They're all sick in the head in some way, shape or form.

Response by PO1 Dallas Shewmaker made Feb 10 at 2017 1:23 PM

PO1 Dallas Shewmaker — Fri, 10 Feb 2017 13:23:36 -0500

This is tricky territory. I've come to find that those who truly "can't talk about it", usually don't. Not out of fear of misinformation but out of a sense of honor. They took an oath and part of that oath was a responsibility to not say anything about such things unless they knew for certain that they could. The easiest way to spot a fraud isn't in what he does say but what he doesn't. Those who have served all have a story that they can share. Even SpecOps/Intel/Recon/etc....

That being said, there are guys out there that after a decade of non-active service don't look like they served. Guys out there that put on the pounds, grew facial hair, and had a tough life outside the military. Those people don't always fit the "American Bad Ass" image that many associate with these days. That doesn't make them any less legit, though. For some, the glory days of their military past is one of the few things left that they're proud about. For whatever reason, they have been rejected by society and we shouldn't discredit them immediately because of their image.

Response by SPC Saundra Teater made Feb 10 at 2017 3:37 PM

SPC Saundra Teater — Fri, 10 Feb 2017 15:37:05 -0500

Totally disagree that those units have better stories. I have funnier stories living in Germany in Army and I was admin. The more serious MOS the less stories. People look at you and expect more from those units. I was admin in an MI unit. Absolutely no one expected anything out of me. And I took full advantage of that. It was the most hilarious, fun, scary, and stupid time of my life.

Response by SPC Kevin McGrath made Feb 10 at 2017 4:42 PM

SPC Kevin McGrath — Fri, 10 Feb 2017 16:42:39 -0500

I drove a truck in the Army... 64C.... I still drive a truck, and I have come to believe that truck driving is the number one chosen profession for former SF Servicemen, because of you spend anytime at all at the Counter of Knowledge during chow time, you will find many guys willing to share their experiences with you... Whether you want them to or not.

I keep thinking to myself, they must have been a member of Meal Team 6

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 10 at 2017 4:59 PM

COL Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 10 Feb 2017 16:59:21 -0500

They do this because of an ego issue. Why be just an ordinary soldier when you can be "special"?

Response by Pvt Michael Meka made Feb 11 at 2017 8:07 AM

Pvt Michael Meka — Sat, 11 Feb 2017 08:07:23 -0500

As a Marine I'm a weapons expert. Pretty cool right, but a Seal team 6 that's Jessie Ventura cool.

Response by SSG Steven Henry made Feb 11 at 2017 9:05 AM

SSG Steven Henry — Sat, 11 Feb 2017 09:05:04 -0500

Yeah , I love when I see someone in a uniform cause I follow them and have even went up to them to say thank you for service. Just to see if they are a poser, luckily I haven't found one yet. God speed, 3531/88M!

Response by TSgt Gerald Wilson made Feb 11 at 2017 11:41 AM

TSgt Gerald Wilson — Sat, 11 Feb 2017 11:41:48 -0500

My latest theory is that these guys are serious mental cases no kidding. The question leaping out of this is: Who would go to the effort and expense to create such a complex deception with zero chance of being believed? A normal person without a legitimate military background would get the impossibility of faking it for God's sake. These cats need a psych evaluation more than punishment in my opinion. That is, provided they're not causing harm or committing fraud.

Response by CPL Tim Allison made Feb 11 at 2017 12:12 PM

CPL Tim Allison — Sat, 11 Feb 2017 12:12:52 -0500

Those uniforms are ridiculous.

Response by SPC Dave Castro made Feb 11 at 2017 3:03 PM

SPC Dave Castro — Sat, 11 Feb 2017 15:03:54 -0500

Movies. Never in a war movie do you see a support troop kickin ass. Civilians will use what they know.

Response by SSgt Earl Wagner made Feb 11 at 2017 4:18 PM

SSgt Earl Wagner — Sat, 11 Feb 2017 16:18:12 -0500

I'm always asked : "Air Force? Oh, were you a pilot? No, I was just a cop..." and they look at me like I'm a leper . Filly Sucks!!!

Response by SSG Sean Knudsen made Feb 11 at 2017 4:23 PM

SSG Sean Knudsen — Sat, 11 Feb 2017 16:23:27 -0500

It's always Ranger, Seal, Deltas or SF from imposters. The craziest I I've ever heard was a drunken fool claiming he served as a door gunner for a classified drone project. After my laughter subsided, I asked him if he could explain why UAV's AKA drones have been given those specific nomenclature and he asked me what nomenclature meant. To say the least, he invalidated his absurd claim with his single question. I invalidated his phony story with one word; unmanned.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 11 at 2017 6:40 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 11 Feb 2017 18:40:13 -0500

I entered the Army in 1984. Went to Fort Benning and became an 11C. I did four years of active duty. When I got out I became a California Highway Patrolman. I was assisting a motor officer with an arrest and had to transport the DUI to the county jail. As I placed him into the vehicle he made the statement "I just got out of the Army". I asked him " what's your MOS"? He states 203 gunner. I respond with, "oh so your were 11 series's"? He yells back at "No I was a 203 gunner". I explained to him that he should at least know his MOS. He says, "you don't what your talking about"! I realized that he just wanted to feel good about himself. I told him if you really want to be proud of yourself raise your hand and serve no need to fake it.

Response by William Hare made Feb 11 at 2017 7:38 PM

William Hare — Sat, 11 Feb 2017 19:38:53 -0500

I got a guy around here that has 7 supposed purple hearts, and a scout sniper. Big ol fat dude. Is there a a
Way to verify the persons marine status or purple heart recipients

Response by SGT Ric Abbott made Feb 11 at 2017 7:59 PM

SGT Ric Abbott — Sat, 11 Feb 2017 19:59:09 -0500

they like "shiny shit"

Response by PV2 Dennis Bunyan made Feb 11 at 2017 9:40 PM

PV2 Dennis Bunyan — Sat, 11 Feb 2017 21:40:54 -0500

Simple they want to live the glamour. What gets more attention from chicks at a bar? I refueled humvee in Kandahar or i was sf and ran 1 man Rambo missions on a hourly basis lol

Response by HN Kevin Rumsey made Feb 12 at 2017 12:03 AM

HN Kevin Rumsey — Sun, 12 Feb 2017 00:03:23 -0500

They're trying to accommodate by having the biggest title or dangerous title. My guess is these guys have the lowest pride for themselves and they have to come up with a way of making themselves look badass. Whether it's to impress a chick or to make themselves feel better. It pisses veterans like myself off. People who indulge into any type of stolen valor is a piece of shit, and should be prosecuted as impersonation of a military officer or enlisted.

Response by SGT Gerald Manzanares made Feb 12 at 2017 9:48 AM

SGT Gerald Manzanares — Sun, 12 Feb 2017 09:48:00 -0500

Yes they don't make movies about cooks, mechanics,supply

Response by PFC Roger Burns made Feb 12 at 2017 11:11 AM

PFC Roger Burns — Sun, 12 Feb 2017 11:11:28 -0500

A 25 gal pot of sauce,, wow,, you and your team are indeed my hero,,

Response by CPL Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 12 at 2017 12:59 PM

CPL Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 12 Feb 2017 12:59:49 -0500

They always want recognition for something important, they take stories from real soldiers and embellish them to sound like they had a great question. However, you can always spot a poser, they never wear their uniform the proper way, and whether you are another service or not the rules don't change much.
I saw a poser one day in the mall when I was at Fort Riley and he couldn't seem to wear his flag the correct way on an army uniform.

Response by SPC Robert Torrance made Feb 12 at 2017 2:53 PM

SPC Robert Torrance — Sun, 12 Feb 2017 14:53:59 -0500

I always get asked what I did in the Army and if I killed or shot anyone. I just answer that I was a Scout like the Indians in the old Cavalry movies and I never shot at or killed anyone that wasn't trying to shoot or kill me first.

Response by SGT Donald Sankey made Feb 12 at 2017 2:58 PM

SGT Donald Sankey — Sun, 12 Feb 2017 14:58:23 -0500

'

-4855//2

+
888
\7
i guess posers all use the same story because of moves and tv, as someone said before.

Response by SSG Brent Reck made Feb 12 at 2017 4:02 PM

SSG Brent Reck — Sun, 12 Feb 2017 16:02:44 -0500

The thing that I find interesting is that they have such little military knowledge, specifically regarding the unit that they are referencing. The example that comes to mind is the guy at a funeral near Fort Bragg. I served at Bragg and currently live about an hour from post. NC is not the easiest place to be a poser. I would love to see the psychological profile on some of these guys.

Response by CPT Jesse Diaz made Feb 12 at 2017 6:20 PM

CPT Jesse Diaz — Sun, 12 Feb 2017 18:20:49 -0500

Because there is something wrong with them. They have ego/emotional issues. To have been a soldier is the most special thing I ever did in my life. I wasn't a Ranger, SF or anything else. I was a tanker and I'm extremely proud of it. I don't give a crap what anyone else thinks. I just look in the mirror and know that I served my country and I proudly wore the uniform...

Response by AN Timothy Raines made Feb 12 at 2017 7:14 PM

AN Timothy Raines — Sun, 12 Feb 2017 19:14:40 -0500

I was a Photographers mate , USN, I met way more SEALs after I got out than the time I was in, I had a good job and I loved doing it, I don't care if that's not exciting.

Response by CPL Paul Haley made Feb 12 at 2017 9:25 PM

CPL Paul Haley — Sun, 12 Feb 2017 21:25:10 -0500

Imposters ~ They are devoid of a clear, accurate, proper and morale thought.

Response by SP6 Ronald Hess made Feb 12 at 2017 10:37 PM

SP6 Ronald Hess — Sun, 12 Feb 2017 22:37:29 -0500

These people have some deep psychological problems and if they weren't impersonating military people, it would be something else. They are easily recognized, but I shrug them off as nut jobs and go on my way.

Response by SSgt Mydon Guilbe made Feb 12 at 2017 10:44 PM

SSgt Mydon Guilbe — Sun, 12 Feb 2017 22:44:47 -0500

I think is also Hollywood/video game industry influence, all movies with military are action flicks with special forces teams. The last time I saw a military man doing carpentry ( I'm USAF Structural Vet "woodpecker") or fixing something was when Colonel Trautman visited Rambo in the opening scenes of Rambo III. Even with all the publicity the USAF has gotten in movies in the last 15 - 20, with movies like Broken Arrow, Air Force One, Iron Eagle Transformers, Independence Day etc, that shows people in very critical jobs, poser will always go for the SF/Ranger story.

Response by Inaia Doix'la made Feb 13 at 2017 12:05 AM

Inaia Doix'la — Mon, 13 Feb 2017 00:05:12 -0500

You know, I've wondered this myself. My brother's in the Army and I've run into like 4 guys who couldn't tell me where they went to Basic, but they could give me their rank and their best war story. It's just confusing and offensive.

Response by MSG William Trumbull made Feb 13 at 2017 1:49 AM

MSG William Trumbull — Mon, 13 Feb 2017 01:49:56 -0500

I call Bullshit, when a "Retired," soldier wears his uniform in public, except for military funeral services. The only public wear as a "Retired MSG," is my Vietnam Veteran baseball cap with my rank!!! These clowns demonstrated in this article make me sick... I would not give them the time of day !!!! In my opinion, they were never in the military..and don't know how to set up their ribbons in order.. They are FAKES !!!!

Response by CPL Brian Kozlowski made Feb 13 at 2017 1:51 AM

CPL Brian Kozlowski — Mon, 13 Feb 2017 01:51:55 -0500

Because they dont know about the other jobs, "I was supply, I handed out condoms and trash bags, I also ordered the ammo, you know how many rounds slipped through these hands? Got this purple heart from stapling my finger to a huge order for shit paper and this CAB from hearing a desk drawer close, what did you do for your country?????

Response by CWO3 David Probert made Feb 13 at 2017 10:16 AM

CWO3 David Probert — Mon, 13 Feb 2017 10:16:10 -0500

They know that most civilians don't realize that any service deserves respect. The troops that support the seals,Rangers, special forces and PJ s are vital to the mission.

Response by Sgt Dean Browder made Feb 13 at 2017 1:39 PM

Sgt Dean Browder — Mon, 13 Feb 2017 13:39:49 -0500

Insecure,immature people "pose" as military these days looking for approval. We didn't see that much in the early seventies.

Response by SGT Paul Broxson made Feb 13 at 2017 1:46 PM

SGT Paul Broxson — Mon, 13 Feb 2017 13:46:51 -0500

After four years in the Army as an 11B, I spent 19 years in law enforcement. Got a call one day about some people camping out in the woods near an elementary school playground. So, I go track the guy and girl down. While getting all their info, etc. the dude (I guess to impress or intimidate me) asks if I was ever in the mi.itary. I said yes, gave him the quick run down and continued with my investigation. The dude then tells me that he was a former "Delta Ranger". I told him I'd heard of Rangers and Delta, but never the combo unit. He said it was "super" secret and since I was just a grunt, I never would have been aware of it. I giggled and said ok. Then I trespassed hm from the property, since it was owned by the city and they were creeping the kids out. He and his girl were pissed, but complied.

I concur that people use SF or combat arms type stories because of the "it sounds cooler factor". The funny thing is I live in a military town; 2 Airforce bases; one is a SOW, also the 6th RTB and the 7th SFG........bad place to try a dupe folks!

Response by SGT Billy McLaughlin made Feb 13 at 2017 1:54 PM

SGT Billy McLaughlin — Mon, 13 Feb 2017 13:54:42 -0500

I was in Iraq. I worked on Computers. Rockets happened, I worked on Computers, Mortars Happened, I worked on Computers, Battery Commander needed Facebook, I worked on Computers. If a Soldier came back to the FOB for being out for 48+ hours, and couldn't call home cause he didnt have a calling card, I worked on HIS/HER computer to make sure he could Skype. If S1 couldn't access internet to send promotions to DA because stupid Iraqi internet was down, I worked on THEIR computers. When S2 couldn't do Intel, we worked on their computers. When the XO wanted to Play WOW, I worked on HIS computer. When I left the Army, I still work on Computers. I am a Special Forces Recon Airborne Ranger Sapper Sniper.

Response by SGT Brian Joseph made Feb 13 at 2017 2:21 PM

SGT Brian Joseph — Mon, 13 Feb 2017 14:21:35 -0500

I also think that most of them have mental health issues and or are unsatisfied with their life that they have to come up with some grandiose identify to make up for their own perceived shortcomings.

Response by SP6 Christopher Vigil made Feb 13 at 2017 3:06 PM

SP6 Christopher Vigil — Mon, 13 Feb 2017 15:06:06 -0500

Some people are just deranged!

Response by A1C Lloyd Wingate made Feb 13 at 2017 3:25 PM

A1C Lloyd Wingate — Mon, 13 Feb 2017 15:25:58 -0500

Maybe because they can use the term top secret and not have to give intelligent answers that they do not have.

Response by SPC Brad Harris made Feb 13 at 2017 5:01 PM

SPC Brad Harris — Mon, 13 Feb 2017 17:01:15 -0500

I was NBC and I can honestly say. No one ever claims to be NBC or a mechanic or a cook or nothing like that. People like using SF or infantry and everyone I talk to about my army experience before I even talk, they automatically assume if you were in the army, you must have been either infantry or SF, as if nothing else even exists in the service.

I was never deployed to a combat zone so I guess I lose cool points for that. I wasn't in a combat MOS so I lose cool points for that as well. However, in both Iraq and in some other Asian countries, people have been hit with bio and Chem agents and I bet I'm not losing cool points with those guys anymore.

I guess it's just that all these movies and media people see showcasing SF and infantry as these bad ass guys has gotten everyone to think that you have to be one of those guys or you don't deserve respect. So all these wannabes cook up those stories to tell people so they can be looked at as cool. Even ex military will cook up a similar story and then use their DD214s as collateral to back up their story. I admit, I did this for a little while when I first got out until I realized that I just felt better about myself being truthful. I would point out a fake in a heartbeat now using AR 670-1.

Response by CW3 Calvin Cumin made Feb 13 at 2017 5:30 PM

CW3 Calvin Cumin — Mon, 13 Feb 2017 17:30:42 -0500

I have an 82nd sticker on my back window. The last jerk came up to me and said, "82nd Airborne? Me too. 101st--rangers. Must be a new outfit.

Response by Maj Rick Clark made Feb 13 at 2017 5:57 PM

Maj Rick Clark — Mon, 13 Feb 2017 17:57:23 -0500

Cooks, Supply & Mechanics don't have cool badges

Response by Cpl John Aviles made Feb 13 at 2017 6:05 PM

Cpl John Aviles — Mon, 13 Feb 2017 18:05:20 -0500

Something went wrong growing up.

Response by SFC Joseph Dvorak made Feb 13 at 2017 6:21 PM

SFC Joseph Dvorak — Mon, 13 Feb 2017 18:21:39 -0500

That's what is shown on TV and movies. More well known and exciting

Response by PO3 Quinten Maccalla made Feb 13 at 2017 6:36 PM

PO3 Quinten Maccalla — Mon, 13 Feb 2017 18:36:16 -0500

Because those bastard's are trying to get the respect even though they are spineless ant they equate the special opeators with that

Response by SGT Jonathan Wood made Feb 13 at 2017 9:58 PM

SGT Jonathan Wood — Mon, 13 Feb 2017 21:58:42 -0500

I do have to agree with the story, you walk into a bar and talk about changing a tire on your huffy bike and people won't give a shit, talk about changing your tire on a rebuilt dodge charger and you have people's attention. People who claim these stories want to stand out and look better than everyone else's so might as well talk big.

Response by SFC Jim Reid made Feb 13 at 2017 10:19 PM

SFC Jim Reid — Mon, 13 Feb 2017 22:19:53 -0500

It appears the POS on the left is not only a Pathfinder, but has a CIBRIAN and a Combat Medics Badge, can't make it out all together but a looks like a Gliders Badge which hasn't been issued since WWII

Response by SGT Sgt. Beardsley made Feb 13 at 2017 10:44 PM

SGT Sgt. Beardsley — Mon, 13 Feb 2017 22:44:03 -0500

Hollywood. It's easy to take on a character if you know their storyline

Response by Cpl Stephen Harryman made Feb 13 at 2017 10:58 PM

Cpl Stephen Harryman — Mon, 13 Feb 2017 22:58:26 -0500

Because that's all they see on tv

Response by MSG Jerad Eldred made Feb 13 at 2017 11:55 PM

MSG Jerad Eldred — Mon, 13 Feb 2017 23:55:27 -0500

Because they are sad individuals and it gets more exciting for them the longer they get away with it. They have to tell bigger and bigger lies to get the same rush they got originally. Not to mention, there is a large amount of support people, who really were with SOF, but they let people infer they were operators. The ironic part is, the most gallant people I have ever worked with, were not pretty boys and they never talked much.

Response by SSG Lucas Solie made Feb 14 at 2017 12:31 AM

SSG Lucas Solie — Tue, 14 Feb 2017 00:31:26 -0500

I assume because in their civilian life they have accomplished nothing. Saying they were SF, Ranger, SEAL, gives them an identity. If you've never been anyone, they pose and become someone. In a way sense of importance, I don't know, that's my guess.

Response by SFC Jack Reeves made Feb 14 at 2017 12:36 AM

SFC Jack Reeves — Tue, 14 Feb 2017 00:36:11 -0500

I think that the psychology of the poseur requires that he or she pick an MOS, AFSC, etc. that makes him or her the center of attention. What most of us did was not as glamorous as those other jobs and to claim a routine MOS would not get them the attention that they want.

Response by Cpl Rob Jones made Feb 14 at 2017 5:03 AM

Cpl Rob Jones — Tue, 14 Feb 2017 05:03:40 -0500

Takes a shitbird coward that would've. Ever made it in the first place to pose as a fine fighting machine

Response by CWO3 Hal Harp made Feb 14 at 2017 10:29 AM

CWO3 Hal Harp — Tue, 14 Feb 2017 10:29:32 -0500

Back in my day if I were to mouth off like that I would probably be introduced to every corner of the compartment and probably fall up several Ladders on my way to signing my report chit. But a kinder gentler person would find out why the E-2 is refusing inform him that he is no different than anyone else and that I would never ask anyone to do something that I have or would not do myself. Then I would find the worst / crappiest job assign it to him if he refuses then I would have him assign it to one of the other people in his squad and that he had to tell them why he is giving them the job. Nothing like getting the rath from you team members. Once that is done I would still write him up for derriliction of duty and disobeying a lawful order.

Response by Kyle Clark made Feb 14 at 2017 10:42 AM

Kyle Clark — Tue, 14 Feb 2017 10:42:15 -0500

Civilian

Response by SrA Robert Tovar made Feb 14 at 2017 12:52 PM

SrA Robert Tovar — Tue, 14 Feb 2017 12:52:53 -0500

They do it because they are uneducated as to what makes one actually join the military. Some are in Combat, others are support in some fashion. I.e. Cooks, Guards, Maintenance, Supply, Intelligence, etc. Bottom line they are Veterans and nobody but a Veteran will ever know how much each Veteran means to our freedom. If they did they would probably pose as one of them. If they did, it probably means that they were either a Veteran themselvs or related to or know a Veteran and which case they would never enage in such cowardly behavior.

Response by SGT Mike Lyall made Feb 14 at 2017 3:15 PM

SGT Mike Lyall — Tue, 14 Feb 2017 15:15:58 -0500

First reaction would be to make sure i heard it correctly. Upon conformation i would instruct him that after formation i will meet him out back and he is to bring a canteen and a sick call slip and i would proceed to crush his soul through extensive PT.

Response by SPC Daniel Rocco made Feb 14 at 2017 3:35 PM

SPC Daniel Rocco — Tue, 14 Feb 2017 15:35:25 -0500

I am not one to put every war story I have out there. But when I do I share the funnier stories of the deployment. Besides when you have the scars and the HOOAH to go with them. Real war stories are best kept between the brothers who we know have been developed. The actual war stories would make hell seem like Disneyland. Anyone who conveyed from Kuwait to Baghdad, Iraq knows what I mean.

Response by PO1 Paul Engel made Feb 14 at 2017 3:44 PM

PO1 Paul Engel — Tue, 14 Feb 2017 15:44:40 -0500

Unfortunately, our civilian counterparts can only relate to the special forces because that's what they see in the movies for the most part. Ask a civilian what jobs are in the military and most probably have no clue.

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 14 at 2017 3:56 PM

SCPO Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 14 Feb 2017 15:56:10 -0500

I've been called out for Stolen Valor on more than one occasion. The first time, I was absolutely dumbfounded. I didn't even know what to say. Before I responded, I thought about it for a second and very politely told the two teenagers that I was proud of them for calling me out and that more people should question the integrity of a person wearing some of the accolades that I was. I didn't have to show any sort of proof that I'm a Chief. they didn't ask for my ID card, or what command I belonged to, or anything of the sort. After I said my peace, I just walked away and they left it alone. The second time I was called out, it didn't end up so well. It was an Army PFC that decided to start barking at me for Stolen Valor (I was wearing choker whites with full medals for an event with the season). We were both standing in line at the shopette on post when he decided to make a fuss about it. so I sharpened up the knife hand and layed in to him pretty hard. long story short, the next morning, his 1SG and MAJ brought him in to the BC's office to formally apologize to me in person. I guess the lesson here is if you're going to call someone out, at least be respectful until you know for certain they are full of shit -- especially when addressing a superior while you are both in uniform.

Response by LTC James LAcey made Feb 14 at 2017 4:03 PM

LTC James LAcey — Tue, 14 Feb 2017 16:03:21 -0500

My all time favorite was talking to a guy who claimed to have commanded A/1-327 Infantry for the same two years I had commanded D/1-327... He turned white when i asked him to explain why I did not remember him being at any training meetings.

Response by CPL Anthony Sarvello made Feb 14 at 2017 4:25 PM

CPL Anthony Sarvello — Tue, 14 Feb 2017 16:25:46 -0500

Agree. A Spec. Ops. Soldier wouldn't just tell anyone that is what they did or are doing. Also Spec Ops would know certain things if asked. Plan and simple it is offensive to any true veteran.

Response by SSG Jeff Gerfen made Feb 14 at 2017 4:51 PM

SSG Jeff Gerfen — Tue, 14 Feb 2017 16:51:58 -0500

Idiots, that's why there should be a law against stolen valor

Response by Lt Col Mike Moran made Feb 14 at 2017 8:45 PM

Lt Col Mike Moran — Tue, 14 Feb 2017 20:45:22 -0500

You don't get racks of ribbons from r being a cook. They go big beca Sempart of their psychosis ismto feel important. What says important but badges, ribbons, and medals out the whazoo.

Response by MSG Les Amaya made Feb 14 at 2017 9:30 PM

MSG Les Amaya — Tue, 14 Feb 2017 21:30:04 -0500

People that are attention seekers,people that have never amounted to anything but love the thrill of being super heroes. A quick fix to their low self esteem and live their fantasy without earning it.

Response by SP5 John Snyder made Feb 14 at 2017 9:38 PM

SP5 John Snyder — Tue, 14 Feb 2017 21:38:35 -0500

To just impress. I was a 73c20 finance clerk. I did my job as well as I could. Got a commendation from the Commanding General.

Response by Julius Soroko made Feb 14 at 2017 10:34 PM

Julius Soroko — Tue, 14 Feb 2017 22:34:08 -0500

... that exist is a p!$$-poor life

Response by PO2 Paul Cordova made Feb 15 at 2017 12:25 AM

PO2 Paul Cordova — Wed, 15 Feb 2017 00:25:50 -0500

The same reason most people who claim they were reincarnated always choose some famous person they "used" to be. No one wants to say they were some peasant who died a virgin of plague at age 12 in medieval France. They want to have been Napoleon.

Response by SSG William Hazeley made Feb 15 at 2017 9:06 AM

SSG William Hazeley — Wed, 15 Feb 2017 09:06:20 -0500

Just an E-6. MP. Proud of it. Got see parts of the world I'd never get to see otherwise. My big oorah time was being in Panama when we, USA, got Noriega out and Desert Shield. Great experience.

Response by Col Ed Dailey made Feb 15 at 2017 1:45 PM

Col Ed Dailey — Wed, 15 Feb 2017 13:45:05 -0500

It is their over-inflated ego. They can't be someone in real life so they need to lie to impress people, and themselves. I laugh at them, although I am not laughing inside. The ones that really get to me are those who wear a Purple Heart.

Response by Cpl Richard Carter made Feb 15 at 2017 2:31 PM

Cpl Richard Carter — Wed, 15 Feb 2017 14:31:48 -0500

I spent almost 21 months with Marine Security Force Co and just under 4 years with 1st Marine Regiment with 1st Battalion 9th Marines (The Walking Dead)and 1st Battalion 4th Marines. I run the doorstaff at a nightclub here in KC, and one night the bartender (a fellow Marine) called me up and introduced me to a guy claiming to be a Marine. When I asked his unit he replied The Walking Dead. When I said 'Oh, I was with 1/9 also.' he said that 1/5 was The Walking Dead! The bartender and I started laughing and called him on it. He had been saying he had medals for bravery among others (couldn't name any) and that we should buy him a pitcher... He left pretty quick after that!

Response by SSG Jeffery Baumgartner made Feb 15 at 2017 5:14 PM

SSG Jeffery Baumgartner — Wed, 15 Feb 2017 17:14:56 -0500

Another thing that I notice that I see awards on these uniforms not matching up with others. For instance, the CIB and no infantry cord.

Response by Col Rick Lester made Feb 16 at 2017 1:29 PM

Col Rick Lester — Thu, 16 Feb 2017 13:29:55 -0500

I don't know

Response by PO3 Timothy Ciciora Sr. made Feb 16 at 2017 2:49 PM

PO3 Timothy Ciciora Sr. — Thu, 16 Feb 2017 14:49:48 -0500

It's too easy to pose as the elite pne. You can get the gear almost anywhere now. I remember when you had to show proof of your award at the uniform shop before you could buy them... Why not go back to that policy?.it may help cut down pn stolen valor...

Response by SPC Jaymie Oakley made Feb 16 at 2017 8:41 PM

SPC Jaymie Oakley — Thu, 16 Feb 2017 20:41:06 -0500

Over compensation for their actual lack of fortitude

Response by PO3 Jeffrey Chandler made Feb 17 at 2017 12:15 AM

PO3 Jeffrey Chandler — Fri, 17 Feb 2017 00:15:32 -0500

I can not stand any military poser!!

Response by 1SG Patrick Sims made Feb 18 at 2017 2:59 AM

1SG Patrick Sims — Sat, 18 Feb 2017 02:59:29 -0500

I can't imagine you would get a lot of volunteers for the military, if you had a poster about the joys of burning shit. How about guard duty, at three in the morning when its 20 below zero-----And we can't forget that all time favorite---- eating cold food in the rain.----Having to get off your tank and shit in the words like a wild animal---then wipe your ass with wet toilet paper---if you have any. OH---Lets not forget combat rations----Once-in-a-while is fine---but having to eat them for weeks or months at a time I can some up in two words---KA--KA.---I guess that explains why the RAH---RAH---BOYS--are put on recruiting posters.

Response by SPC Geoffrey Jenkins made Feb 23 at 2017 5:28 AM

SPC Geoffrey Jenkins — Thu, 23 Feb 2017 05:28:50 -0500

A poser has no honor as an American,those who raise their right hand like me to serve our country in peace and war we all knew there was going to be great sacrifices with our mind body and soul.We have a volunteer military and for those who join we are 1% of the population.I once encountered a poser at the mall a few years back,he had his name tag on the right side of his chest and had more medals than a five star General,I couldn't believe this shit when he was telling war stories to a young boy about being in Afghanistan and saving his squad from attack by the insurgents,that's when I interrupt his storytelling and ask him where did he do boot camp and what was his MOS and what was his drill instructors name.This bastard couldn't answer any of my questions.Next time I see a poser he better start running before I get to them/lol

Response by PO3 Greg Gehrke made Feb 24 at 2017 5:43 PM

PO3 Greg Gehrke — Fri, 24 Feb 2017 17:43:46 -0500

I was called out once by a guy who claimed I was "to young" to have served on the USS Guardfish...he was refering to the WW2 Diesel boat, not the Nuc (SSN 612) that I served on, and said I never served..I put it ti rest by saying he WISHED I never had, My name is on the creqw list. Never heard a peep after that...

Response by SPC Thom Ryan made Mar 7 at 2017 8:58 AM

SPC Thom Ryan — Tue, 07 Mar 2017 08:58:19 -0500

I know, right? Never have I heard someone lie about being in the Coast Guard or Merchant Marine. :-P

Response by TSgt Terry Hayes made Apr 10 at 2017 9:28 PM

TSgt Terry Hayes — Mon, 10 Apr 2017 21:28:54 -0400

I was an Air Force Weather Weenie. Anyway you cut it, you're still just the friggin' Weatherman.

Response by CW4 Dennis Busch made Apr 10 at 2017 11:28 PM

CW4 Dennis Busch — Mon, 10 Apr 2017 23:28:59 -0400

I don't worry about it too much. They are generally, very, very stupid people. They have low self esteem and most likely a host of other personality issues. I don't think it matters unless they are capitalizing on it somehow.
But you're right. Nobody is posing as a helicopter maintenance pilot...because nobody thinks it's sexy to sit on a big base in Iraq and work 16 hours so you can get a 0.4 hour test flight in and then find out your shit didn't work and you have to go back to the drawing board...it doesn't hold the audiences attention...

Response by SSG Tom Pike made Apr 11 at 2017 5:52 AM

SSG Tom Pike — Tue, 11 Apr 2017 05:52:15 -0400

Posers have a mental illness. They have nothing in their lives so they make up a story about how great they are. Choosing a regular MOS would not help fill the void in their life.

Response by Cpl David Rumery made Apr 11 at 2017 12:07 PM

Cpl David Rumery — Tue, 11 Apr 2017 12:07:40 -0400

Posers are empty, void of knowledge except what they've seen on t.v., read in a book, or heard people say. I've known people like this, not just with military posing, but many other ways of life. It's a group that is happy to claim the "glory," but not walk the walk. They capture the most prominent buzz words, phrases, that's why the details are always sketchy. There is a few things to remember though, 1) Even Veterans embellish, sometimes beyond their knowledge and get caught in the details, but they still served. Hell, for years I thought I was one of only a handful of regular Marine Infantryman (0351), in the history of the Corps. Every Marine I met was either an MP, Sniper, Or Recon. 2) I'm a dual branch Veteran, there are others (I met a 4 branch Vet once, and many dual branch Vets). Marine 87-91, Army 95-98. Over the years I've gotten the lingo mixed and muddled between the two. This doesn't mean I'm a poser. 3) Terms, lingo, tactics, equipment, SOP, all change over time, especially with the Corps. The way things were done when you were in, may not have been done the way when I was in, and may not necessarily be done that way now. This seems to create a big problem. I loath wannabees and posers as much as anyone, but I would say be careful, it's not worth embarrassing and shaming a Veteran that can't remember exactly. The question back would be, who would want to pose as support element, "in the rear with the gear?"

Response by SP5 Edwin Overstreet made Apr 11 at 2017 3:44 PM

SP5 Edwin Overstreet — Tue, 11 Apr 2017 15:44:07 -0400

I almost believe I am the only Vietnam vet from the 1st Log Command . Truck driver, fork lift operator, sand bag filler, P. S. P layer, rigger, and lots of other jobs and nobody ever wants to copy . Why is that ?

Response by CPO Tim Wamsley made Apr 11 at 2017 10:35 PM

CPO Tim Wamsley — Tue, 11 Apr 2017 22:35:48 -0400

Army Cooks, " Death from Within "

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 11 at 2017 11:13 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 11 Apr 2017 23:13:55 -0400

Well, I'm glad to see that the "officer" in the picture on the right, even with all that bling, knew that officers don't wear their marksmanship badges. That would have given him away as a poser right away. ;)

Response by LtCol George Carlson made Apr 11 at 2017 11:22 PM

LtCol George Carlson — Tue, 11 Apr 2017 23:22:44 -0400

My first response is, "pathetic." My second is to say (for all you "youngsters" out there -- i.e. anyone who never tasted a C-rat) be damn careful about older uniforms. They don't always match current regs. My third is if it looks like a cross between a Jr ROTC cadet uniform and the most decorated member of your service ever -- it's almost certainly fake, but the wearer had a lot bigger problems than just being a poser. Unless he's trying to marry your sister (or mother) take it slowly and carefully.

Response by Lana Sauro made Apr 12 at 2017 2:00 PM

Lana Sauro — Wed, 12 Apr 2017 14:00:39 -0400

I was pissed when my father-in-law stole my husbands uniforms. They had all been cleaned, pressed, starched, and sealed in packaging in case my husband was recalled (was on IRR). Growing up in the Army I learned, always be prepared and keep everything because that shit ain't cheap.

We went to visit his mom and here comes in his drunk dad from the VFW ( he was a former reservist that never left the state some 30yrs before) wearing my husbands DSUs all wrinkled, faded, cigarette burns, and seams coming undone. The Screaming Eagle patch looked like it was screaming "save me!" Needless to say I was livid. His excuse was it was his name on the uniform he could do what he wanted. Ended up he lied to my mother in law when she had questioned him about it saying my husband gave it to him. After some investigating it turns out he was telling everyone who would listen that he served with the 101st doing secret EOD (hubby was a 56M not EOD- lol) missions to get free beers. I don't know how people could believe a 70yr old man who served in reserves 30yrs before would have been issued DSUs.

We ended up taking all the hubby's Army stuff out of his parents attic and home with us. It had all been opened up and everything tried on. His Class A's had the buttons popped off and zipper on pants broken and the crotch seam ripped open. Ribbon rack was a disgrace. He tried to put them in line according to color!

Response by PO3 Chester Hill made Apr 12 at 2017 11:43 PM

PO3 Chester Hill — Wed, 12 Apr 2017 23:43:12 -0400

because they are trying to cover up the fact that they are, in reality, pussys

Response by SGT Clive Choat made Apr 13 at 2017 9:40 AM

SGT Clive Choat — Thu, 13 Apr 2017 09:40:21 -0400

73C Finance guy here. 21 years, retired. Was attached to infantry unit in Panama out of Fort Polk for support. When ballon went up, everyone in Headquarters company went, even the cooks. My entire combat experance was hanging on in an APC, then laying suppressive fire on a building until told to cease fire. Yeah, maybe a couple of bullets came our way, but we were not moving and under cover.
Nothing big, nothing bold, but a real wake up for a combat service support soldier.
That's my big war story.

Response by MAJ Daniel Flynn made Apr 13 at 2017 10:52 AM

MAJ Daniel Flynn — Thu, 13 Apr 2017 10:52:05 -0400

Sad but funny as when I was in, everybody was trying to get *out.* Even had a guy who the judge offered Army or prison. Now we have nutjobs trying to get *in.*

Response by MSG Jeff Gafford made Apr 13 at 2017 4:56 PM

MSG Jeff Gafford — Thu, 13 Apr 2017 16:56:33 -0400

From the other side: I remember responding to this topic several months ago. We all know it takes a huge, multi-MOS army to win wars. The big question is if you serve, why can't the poser be proud of his service. That is an individual thing, not an entire group of soldiers. I know many who are very proud of their military service. Some of the best soldiers I was privileged to serve with were support troops. It is very easy to pull the blanket over the head of people (civilians) who don't know anything about the military. Those who aren't proud of their service, who have had bad experiences in the military or lack character are the real posers. The SPC, PAC Clerk, home on leave, sitting in the bar telling all his college buddies he is SF, that is very common. That is just a young troop making up stuff to impress his group.

The posers who gain status, gain a monetary advantage or discredit the military (and our Regiment) are the real problem. Like these two ass clowns in the pic above. Looks like they got hit with a salad shooter. There are people out there posing as SF/SEAL/Ranger and so on that have never served a day in the military. VFW commanders posing that falsify DD214s to show 20+ years but only served a year or two in the reserves. Posers making contact with Gold Star mothers. SF posers with Go Fund Me accounts for wheel chairs. Posers claiming to be SF just to front their business, or resume. And I must give honorable mention to those Prepper/Survivalist/Martial Arts/Self Defense/Shooter School/Wilderness Guide who front SPECOPS experience to promote their business.

In short, if Joe wants to drink and tell tall tells, I could care less, it just makes him look bad. If a poser is committing fraud, if he is bringing disgrace upon his true military service, his regiment (MOS) and those who have gone before him; crush his nuts. If he is degrading SF, the Regiment and my brothers, turn him over to these guys, they will crush his nuts. Green Beret Posers Exposed. Check it out on Youtube for some real lowlife posers.

SF (retired)

Response by MSgt Jeff Brown made Apr 13 at 2017 8:27 PM

MSgt Jeff Brown — Thu, 13 Apr 2017 20:27:56 -0400

I'm a retired USAF E-7 personnel superintendent, and I've never had any poser tell me they were in personnel or admin. Around here, at Dover AFB, most of my felllow retirees are pilots or loadmasters, and I love their stories. I doubt many of them are anxious to hear about signing discharge papers or processing Article 15s! But I'm always told what I did was important, and I know they're right. We're all one team, regardless of our AFSC or the color of uniform we wore. And, BTW, I did serve in Iraq at the end of the first Gulf War, but still from behind a desk and pushing paper!
I'm now a newspaper reporter, and once helped to ID one of these fakers. He showed up at a Memorial Day ceremony dressed as a Marine E-9 and a chest full of ribbons. As a personnel guy, I immediately noticed he was wearing a WWII ribbon and one from the Korean War. Both were unique to those conflicts and he was too young to have served then. I got in contact with the local Marine Corps League, and he was exposed as a former lance corporal. He went to trial, got six months probation and since has moved away. Good riddance.

Response by Russ Hamilton made Apr 13 at 2017 8:54 PM

Russ Hamilton — Thu, 13 Apr 2017 20:54:15 -0400

I think the reason is a bit more prosaic. In order to make the number of decorations and medals believable they would have to be assigned to something SF. Cook, mechanic etc, as brave, necessary as they are are going to have fewer opportunities to earn commendations. Secondly they want to be perceived as being a badass. In the civilian world they wouldn't pose as a meter maid but as SWAT or a Detective, something dangerous...

Response by SFC Jim Dorsey made Apr 14 at 2017 5:30 AM

SFC Jim Dorsey — Fri, 14 Apr 2017 05:30:42 -0400

Ego....the John Wayne attitude!

Response by FN Cappy Cooper made Apr 14 at 2017 11:49 AM

FN Cappy Cooper — Fri, 14 Apr 2017 11:49:27 -0400

Brcause they can fall back on it's classified when asked smthg they do not know all these fuckers should hang

Response by PO3 Delbert Jeffreys made Apr 14 at 2017 4:53 PM

PO3 Delbert Jeffreys — Fri, 14 Apr 2017 16:53:11 -0400

That is all these limp dicks think that the military is composed of they don't realize all the different troops in various trades that are needed to support combat troops these posers are absolutely deplorable

Response by SSgt John Reiley made Apr 14 at 2017 9:40 PM

SSgt John Reiley — Fri, 14 Apr 2017 21:40:04 -0400

You gotta be a moron is why they do it! simple as that!!!!

Response by SSG Joe Wallace made Apr 15 at 2017 7:55 AM

SSG Joe Wallace — Sat, 15 Apr 2017 07:55:12 -0400

Most people who pose as the "Elite" don't feel that other MOS's find any glory and EVERYBODY knows about the Rangers, Airborne, Marines, SF, SEAL's, etc.

Response by PO3 James Isbell made Apr 15 at 2017 8:19 AM

PO3 James Isbell — Sat, 15 Apr 2017 08:19:26 -0400

I have to admit my stolen valor. When my wife and I had just started dating she notice a scar on my forearm. I told he when I was in Nam a VC jumped into my foxhole and stabbed me with his bayonet. She got a real concerned look on her face and I busted out laughing. What so funny she asked. I told her I was too young to have served in Viet-Nam and besides I was in the navy and an aircraft mechanic. The truth is I got the scar from a bolt sticking out of an air-conditioner I was trying to install in the line shack. Salute to all service men who did their job. No matter what it was.

Response by PO3 Sarah de Groot made Apr 15 at 2017 1:37 PM

PO3 Sarah de Groot — Sat, 15 Apr 2017 13:37:36 -0400

My rate in the Navy was CTR for thise who dont know its Cryptologic Tech Collection. I had to lied about what i did. I tell people i worled on computers and some how that translated into software and hardware work lol.

Response by 1SG Richard Steinberg made Apr 15 at 2017 1:39 PM

1SG Richard Steinberg — Sat, 15 Apr 2017 13:39:41 -0400

my mission was so classified that 'they' didn't even tell me

Response by SGT Antwion Horton made Apr 15 at 2017 6:46 PM

SGT Antwion Horton — Sat, 15 Apr 2017 18:46:31 -0400

Telling the "Big Story" gets the "let me buy you a beer, or here's your discount" response. I was a Rigger, 92R. Only glamorous thing is jumping. People that put on the uniform and pretend are pussies and need to be arrested.

Response by SSG Philip Roberts made Apr 15 at 2017 10:12 PM

SSG Philip Roberts — Sat, 15 Apr 2017 22:12:00 -0400

I was a 51 November Field Water Purification MOS. Never saw Pauly Shore

Response by SFC Louis Eisenhauer made Apr 16 at 2017 7:23 PM

SFC Louis Eisenhauer — Sun, 16 Apr 2017 19:23:50 -0400

It seems every Marine I meet from Vietnam was forced recon. I always ask them " doesn't the USMC have any other jobs besides that? Everyone one I meet is forced recon". The always say they really are and then I ask for a DD214 which is never provided. They were never privates, went straight to Gunny upon enlistment it seems.

Response by AN Chris Johnson made Apr 16 at 2017 7:30 PM

AN Chris Johnson — Sun, 16 Apr 2017 19:30:42 -0400

Bunch of idiots. There's a guy in Davenport Iowa who claims he was a SEAL. Crock of shot! His daughter is my daughters best friend and checked his DD214. Nope.

Response by Cpl John Gribbin made Apr 16 at 2017 10:20 PM

Cpl John Gribbin — Sun, 16 Apr 2017 22:20:05 -0400

Because they could not cut it in boot or never even got that far. They really do believe they would have been the best of the best of the best. They dream of such glory because they never forgave themselves for either not joining or not being allowed. I had a boss once claim he made CWO4 in the Corps in 6 yrs. So I checked him out and he was full of it.

Response by SGT Philip Gibbs made Apr 16 at 2017 11:15 PM

SGT Philip Gibbs — Sun, 16 Apr 2017 23:15:27 -0400

I think you are on the right track, but I think there is another level. I have done Veterans ' Day presentations at several elementary schools. The kids think that all soldiers are infantry, Rangers or SF. Many adult civilians have the same idea. Besides, me stories about staring at a computer screen are not overly exciting (except for maybe the one about the giant spider).

Response by CPT Louis Arceneaux made Apr 17 at 2017 4:00 PM

CPT Louis Arceneaux — Mon, 17 Apr 2017 16:00:38 -0400

If you never served you need to really go big I suppose. I was an Army lawyer...admin separations for hot piss tests was my specialty. Damn exciting stuff.

Response by CPL Tony Rice made Apr 18 at 2017 12:20 AM

CPL Tony Rice — Tue, 18 Apr 2017 00:20:28 -0400

You forgot "sniper". I have no clue why these idiots do this. I know a guy who's in his 40's and claims to have made "168 confirmed bayonet kills in Vietnam". I guess if you're gonna lie, lie big.

Response by PO3 Mike Cox made Apr 18 at 2017 2:32 PM

PO3 Mike Cox — Tue, 18 Apr 2017 14:32:42 -0400

The closest I ever got to combat was mooning a Soviet cruiser that came within 50 feet of our ship in the eastern Med.

Response by SPC Isidro Iglesias made Apr 18 at 2017 10:52 PM

SPC Isidro Iglesias — Tue, 18 Apr 2017 22:52:11 -0400

My favorite "war stories" are about true comrade. Fucked up things you and your battles did to each other on down time

Response by SSG Brian Tobin made Apr 19 at 2017 11:23 AM

SSG Brian Tobin — Wed, 19 Apr 2017 11:23:13 -0400

So I'm at the local bar playing on a dart league and this guy I have never seen before walks up and is talking to my team mate asking about a WWP sticker behind the bar, she is the owner. She tells him I have it to her so he proceeds to hover behind me while I'm trying to shoot. The second I finish he walks up inside my personal space around 7 inches from me and puts his hand out saying "375" not his name or hello. My bewildered response is "what?" So he proceeded to explain he was in the 3/75th Rangers, so I look at him and say thanks for your service and go back to my game. He gets all upset and I can hear him at the bar saying something about stolen valor, where do these people come from?

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 19 at 2017 12:40 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 19 Apr 2017 12:40:20 -0400

BECAUSE THEY ARE DUMBASSES

Response by SSG Christopher Griffin made Apr 19 at 2017 5:23 PM

SSG Christopher Griffin — Wed, 19 Apr 2017 17:23:12 -0400

Because most likely the will never meet anyone from a special operations unit. I was 1/75 and have only meet 3 other Rangers in 10 years. 2 were from 3/75 and 1 was from 1/75

Response by SPC Dennis McGuire made Apr 19 at 2017 10:09 PM

SPC Dennis McGuire — Wed, 19 Apr 2017 22:09:56 -0400

When I run into a wannabe I ask one of two questions:
1. While you were in basic training, did you ever get to fire the DD-214?
2. What is your first general order?

If they even stutter, I walk away...

Response by MAJ Gary Davis made Apr 20 at 2017 11:16 AM

MAJ Gary Davis — Thu, 20 Apr 2017 11:16:35 -0400

From the posers I have had personal experience with, portraying yourself as some "Elite Killing Machine" to men elicits the male listener to buy the "Elite Killing Machine" drinks at the bar. And, portraying yourself as some "Elite Killing Machine" to women is an attempt to get some poon that night.

Response by SSG Paul's Page made Apr 20 at 2017 12:08 PM

SSG Paul's Page — Thu, 20 Apr 2017 12:08:20 -0400

Good as any reason...

Response by TSgt Mark McAtee made Apr 20 at 2017 6:46 PM

TSgt Mark McAtee — Thu, 20 Apr 2017 18:46:51 -0400

These guys look they could probably guard a good humor truck through base housing

Response by SrA Ted Wenri made Apr 20 at 2017 10:17 PM

SrA Ted Wenri — Thu, 20 Apr 2017 22:17:18 -0400

Because there's no movies about a cook in the military but there's dozens of movies about soldiers

Response by SGT Charles Oliver made Apr 21 at 2017 12:02 AM

SGT Charles Oliver — Fri, 21 Apr 2017 00:02:20 -0400

The sad thing is that most posers never served. Most dont know what a mos is or what the mos is for ranger or sf. Sorry ass want to be s

Response by Cpl Timothy Hempel made Apr 21 at 2017 11:22 AM

Cpl Timothy Hempel — Fri, 21 Apr 2017 11:22:39 -0400

When I was a complete noob and just returning to ITS from my short leave after boot camp, I met a heavy set lady about 50 years old. She wasn't fat - she looked beefy. Anyhow, she stated to me that she was a Marine Major. I snapped too and saluted - no harm done. I asked where she was stationed and she mentioned to me that she was a nurse - in the medical field. Red flag goes off and I know what she isn't. We continued for some time just talking and making small talk and finally she admits to me that she was "just joking". I told her I knew all along, and she asked how I knew. I mentioned to her that the Marines don't have a "medical field" of any kind - our good friends in the Navy provide that service for us (my dad was a Viet Nam era Corpsman). She then asked me why I hadn't stopped her and rail on her for her deception. I replied "Ma'am - that would have just been rude." We parted way with her thanking me and me smiling. Sometimes, that's all the world needs.

Response by CH (LTC) Garet Aldridge made Apr 21 at 2017 5:47 PM

CH (LTC) Garet Aldridge — Fri, 21 Apr 2017 17:47:47 -0400

Probably true. But, now that I am retired, I just have fun with it. These sorts paint into corners pretty easily.

Response by PO2 Michael Whitt made Apr 21 at 2017 10:13 PM

PO2 Michael Whitt — Fri, 21 Apr 2017 22:13:02 -0400

(I was in the Navy five years as a Sonar Tech before joining the Army National Guard as a 71L. I ended up doing 3 years active as a Guardsman.)

Who would brag (besides me) about being an "Administrative Specialist" (71L)? Don't get me wrong, I'm proud of my service; but if I could have been a SEAL or SF guy, I would have been. The thing is, not everybody is meant to be. Whatever it takes to be one of those guys.... I, like most people, didn't have it. I knew it. But if I was pretending to be a soldier, I would probably pretend to be Green Beret or a Ranger. People relate to them because of movies. I get it. But it pisses me off because, while I wasn't one of those guys, I did know some of them. The ones I knew, I'm pretty sure, wouldn't walk around bragging. They didn't need to brag. They knew.

Response by SSG Edward Tilton made Apr 21 at 2017 10:36 PM

SSG Edward Tilton — Fri, 21 Apr 2017 22:36:30 -0400

Even those who actually served, went to Vietnam or Iraq or Afghanistan have to have been Airborne, Ranger, LRRP, Brown Water Navy SEALs. Like you said that is where they fall down.

Response by SSG Doug Nyquist made Apr 22 at 2017 8:06 PM

SSG Doug Nyquist — Sat, 22 Apr 2017 20:06:47 -0400

You're correct. If the story is almost unbelievable, it is.

Response by CPT Bob Mason made Apr 22 at 2017 8:38 PM

CPT Bob Mason — Sat, 22 Apr 2017 20:38:50 -0400

I don't have an answer. But I do know posing is also found within the military. My first posting as a new lieutenant in 1970 was Ft Meade - at that time 1st Army Hq. A PV2 was stopped near the main PX in his class 1 greens sporting two ribbons: the National Defense and Medal of Honor.

Response by Maj Mark Hendricks made Apr 22 at 2017 10:14 PM

Maj Mark Hendricks — Sat, 22 Apr 2017 22:14:47 -0400

It's because they all lack balls and have to pose as something they're not. They're all the same......posing as something they're not and that they haven't earned. Prosecute them all!!

Response by LTC Robert Croskery made Apr 23 at 2017 6:25 AM

LTC Robert Croskery — Sun, 23 Apr 2017 06:25:29 -0400

A lot of posers are sitting around with cardboard signs saying "help a homeless vet". I always ask questions-- what was your MOS, where were you stationed, what was your highest rank, what is the next higher rank.

Response by Cpl John Kuhn made Apr 24 at 2017 6:37 PM

Cpl John Kuhn — Mon, 24 Apr 2017 18:37:15 -0400

lol I say that all the time. How come Im the only supply guy OHHHH EVeryone is recon i get it.. i get it

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 27 at 2017 9:57 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 27 Apr 2017 21:57:53 -0400

Im not sure about the rest of you guys or girls bit theres something about the way people carry themselves stupid things we all do whithout noticing because we lived a life where if we didnt carry a certain sense of proffessionality about us we. Were fucked up ive yet to see one able vet walk with their shoulders slouched even if they have been out for 20 years

Response by CW4 Thomas Martin made Apr 28 at 2017 8:00 AM

CW4 Thomas Martin — Fri, 28 Apr 2017 08:00:58 -0400

They have to be the hero. They don't look on cooks, supply personnel, and clerks as heroes. You never hear a Great War story about the supply room.

Response by SPC Dave Sweeney made Apr 28 at 2017 9:23 AM

SPC Dave Sweeney — Fri, 28 Apr 2017 09:23:09 -0400

Well. Just a quick word. They as possers are the lowest form of POS so they make up a story hoping that others will give them respect. What they have not figured out is that most who have served can tell them from a mile away. If that step is not 40" they be possing. And how many of those POS know what the stripes on the sleeve of dress uniforms mean. I have even seen possers have service ribbons on the salads they all seem to have earned. Problem is they have the wrong service on. Saw an ass dressed as a Marine with an Army Service Ribbon. It disgust me. And then for it to be legal makes me nauseated.

Response by Scotty Jaques made Apr 28 at 2017 10:55 AM

Scotty Jaques — Fri, 28 Apr 2017 10:55:39 -0400

I have a question that I would appreciate input on. I enlisted in the National Guard right out of high school, but due to injuries sustained during basic training, I was given a medical discharge. My question is, would I be considered a veteran? I personally don't consider myself to be one because I was unable to complete basic training, but would like to hear what you all think. Btw, my MOS was 12B. Combat Engineer.

Response by SPC Ernest Conner made Apr 29 at 2017 4:12 PM

SPC Ernest Conner — Sat, 29 Apr 2017 16:12:57 -0400

When I came back on active duty after being out 19 years and never being deployed it was hard for me to accept the phrase "Thank you for your service! ". So now I responded with thank you for caring because I know it's for you who did not quit their posts till properly relieved!

Response by Sgt Chuck Hallbert made May 1 at 2017 6:38 PM

Sgt Chuck Hallbert — Mon, 01 May 2017 18:38:24 -0400

Raging homosexuality?

Response by LTC Joseph George made May 1 at 2017 7:03 PM

LTC Joseph George — Mon, 01 May 2017 19:03:26 -0400

The SCOTUS says it is Free Speech. These idiots are using this for personal gain, congress has stated that they have free reign on this and no one has the right to say anything different. Having been in combat numerous times, earning the badges, ribbons and medals associated with my tours of duty and experience I find it appalling that nothing can be done shot of a good ass beating and more. These idiots were draft dodgers, chaptered out people, the immoral degenerates of society, there are many more issues, but we have to get above this and get congress and the SCOTUS to stop allowing things of this sort to happen. Laws must be stringent and enforceable.

Response by SSgt Douglas Weber made May 1 at 2017 8:58 PM

SSgt Douglas Weber — Mon, 01 May 2017 20:58:36 -0400

Retired AF reserve SSgt here. Aircraft maintenance -21SEB. AFSC 43173D. Worked on seats, seat belts, cargo rollers, cargo restraint rails. Not glamorous, not exciting. Supported the mission. Proud to have served. Been out 28 years. Would go back in in a heartbeat. Drive tractor trailer now. Not glamorous but it pays the bills. Posers make me ill!

Response by Sgt David Obermeyer made May 2 at 2017 1:58 PM

Sgt David Obermeyer — Tue, 02 May 2017 13:58:55 -0400

Every navy veteran I've met was a Navy Seal lol

Response by SGT Mark Grier made May 2 at 2017 5:27 PM

SGT Mark Grier — Tue, 02 May 2017 17:27:33 -0400

Nobody wants to be a canvas repair technician

Response by SFC Fernando Campos made May 3 at 2017 11:24 AM

SFC Fernando Campos — Wed, 03 May 2017 11:24:15 -0400

Ever heard anyone sing "I want to be a unit clerk, live the life of naps and no despair"? Of course not, they want to be admired and respected, whether to get women or whatever else, just to live a fantasy, or worse, to get money for fictitious service connected disabilities.

Response by PVT Andrew Burd made May 4 at 2017 2:04 PM

PVT Andrew Burd — Thu, 04 May 2017 14:04:13 -0400

"Well.. being a combat engineer, one time we had to fill a pothole just outside the wire...man oh man.. hardcore shit dude."

Response by SGT Jim Allison made May 4 at 2017 9:06 PM

SGT Jim Allison — Thu, 04 May 2017 21:06:42 -0400

If you gonna lie . GO BIG OR GO HOME

Response by LCpl James Robertson made May 5 at 2017 10:59 AM

LCpl James Robertson — Fri, 05 May 2017 10:59:22 -0400

It makes them feel as though they are the best of combat warriors as the tip of the iceberg. They wants one to think by having earned these combat medals, it makes them set apart from other military personnel, psychologically they probably haven't achieved much in there life and careers and want the American citizens to acknowledge them as true hero's.

Response by CPT Robert Hampton made May 6 at 2017 11:28 AM

CPT Robert Hampton — Sat, 06 May 2017 11:28:43 -0400

That's all the poseurs see in the movies. It astonishes me now to realize only 2% of Americans have ever served in the military. In the days of the draft military service was a rite of passage. One went in as a boy and (generally) came out a man. Now there are very few who have actually worn the uniform.

Response by AN Eric Lewis made May 6 at 2017 4:56 PM

AN Eric Lewis — Sat, 06 May 2017 16:56:37 -0400

What do you do when idiots spread barroom rumors about your, "heroics," when you were actually a helicopter mech? It happened to me in the 1990's. I think a spycho relative started the rumor that I was a SEAL while he was in jail or in the bar as some sort of twisted bragging. Stories of my adventures grew from there. I'm from a small town. I had to address it as soon as I found out. Somehow, the rumor took root. A good friend told me about the rumor. So, we went to the local bar (there's only one) and the local American Legion to try to set it straight. It helped. I've adamantly denied it for decades, but I think people WANT to believe it. I just tell them no, I wasn't, and to google me. Anyone else experience this sort of thing? I have too much respect to just let it go.

Response by MSgt Mark Bucher made May 6 at 2017 5:34 PM

MSgt Mark Bucher — Sat, 06 May 2017 17:34:34 -0400

Because they're useless pieces of shit, the posers I mean

Response by SFC Victor Garcia made May 6 at 2017 7:46 PM

SFC Victor Garcia — Sat, 06 May 2017 19:46:55 -0400

They merely repeat what the real vets say. Things is, they rarely get their shit straight. Like a "Marine" that went to boot camp at Fort Hood. LMAO!!!

Response by Col Lowell Sensintaffar made May 7 at 2017 2:09 AM

Col Lowell Sensintaffar — Sun, 07 May 2017 02:09:53 -0400

Retired AF Colonel, here. Often, when civilians ask about my military service they'll ask what plane did I fly? My response? Southwest, economy.

Response by PO3 James Fasino made May 7 at 2017 1:51 PM

PO3 James Fasino — Sun, 07 May 2017 13:51:16 -0400

Because they know that no one would believe they were good enough to be a submariner! Lol

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made May 7 at 2017 3:02 PM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 07 May 2017 15:02:56 -0400

PFC Eric Minchey - Wasn't Steven Seagal just a cook in the film Under Siege? Maybe a poser claiming to be just a cook may have seen one too many movies!!! Warmest Regards, Sandy :)

https://youtu.be/JcpyOMIUdYQ

Under Seige (1992) Official Trailer - Steven Seagal, Tommy Lee Jones Movie HD

Subscribe to CLASSIC TRAILERS: http://bit.ly/1u43jDe Subscribe to TRAILERS: http://bit.ly/sxaw6h Subscribe to COMING SOON: http://bit.ly/H2vZUn Like us on FA...

Response by PVT Mark Brown made May 7 at 2017 10:27 PM

PVT Mark Brown — Sun, 07 May 2017 22:27:03 -0400

Maybe I want to be an Army cook posser? Any suggestions of what terrific and dramatic exploits I have carried out as a classified cook for a non-existent U S Army SOF soldiers with covert assignments behind the PX cafeteria with order to serve empty plates and tell the SOF Eaters that this is special classified food in fact it is so classified that they are not allowed to even see it or, God Forbid, taster. Under UCMJar all participants were sworn to a like of secrecy. Any who violated this Code Of Food Conduct K Rats left over from Vietnam - but again, sworn to secrecy. Pay attention! Highly Classified Operations!

Response by LTC Lewis Cox made May 8 at 2017 3:34 AM

LTC Lewis Cox — Mon, 08 May 2017 03:34:05 -0400

You're a Cook! GOOD ANSWER!!!

Response by CWO2 Shelby DuBois made May 8 at 2017 9:58 AM

CWO2 Shelby DuBois — Mon, 08 May 2017 09:58:20 -0400

Enhancing one's sense of worth... I get it. It's a bummer when asked..'what did you do in the war, Daddy?'...and you have to say...'I cut travel orders'....or "I was a dispersing clerk"...or 'worked in a warehouse'... But if that's what you did what is wrong with it? If leadership instilled a better sense of worth to their charges its not an issue. I worked for a lot of great Mariines who made us feel like we were an integral part of the team or mission. From the top to the bottom each job is a cog in a giant wheel that won't turn unless it's all together. We all can't fit in the cockpit of plane, but that guy who does doesn't do it without the guys who wash it, service it, find parts for it, provides weather briefs, sews patches and helmet covers, fuels it....launches it and tucks it in at night...

Response by SPC Tim Cook made May 9 at 2017 9:45 PM

SPC Tim Cook — Tue, 09 May 2017 21:45:19 -0400

My best guess would be that they choose areas because they are so well publicized. The douchebags are able to easily do minimal research... probably by watching bad movies. lol Then they hit the Army/Navy surplus stores or ebay, and then they spew their crap upon the world.

Response by Cpl John Kuhn made May 11 at 2017 2:43 PM

Cpl John Kuhn — Thu, 11 May 2017 14:43:57 -0400

i would tell them your not recon bro im supply and ill kick your fucking ass :-D rah.

Response by 1LT Tom Wilson made May 12 at 2017 8:04 AM

1LT Tom Wilson — Fri, 12 May 2017 08:04:57 -0400

My mother used to say that American civilians would never understand the military. It's a discrimination that goes back to the Quakers and Puritans. But one good result of Vietnam is that civilians have re-considered their opinion of the active military because of the Vietnam Veterans War Memorial. By and large, 'Thank you for your service" is better than the way all veterans were being treated when I got back from Vietnam. As a white guy, it was a pain in the ass, As a black guy, it could get you arrested.

However, most civilians believe the "V" device on the Bronze Star stands for "Vanity". While there is a certain analogue between military awards and Boy Scout Merit Badges, civilians really don't believe, in their heart of hearts, that Medal of Honor winners are universally humble about their award, that they were trying to complete their mission in a situation where just staying alive was a doubtful outcome.

So, when they see some dude all sparkly in military drag, they don't look that different from Prince Harry at his wedding and the chance to say "Thank you for your service" to a real hero is the extent of their awareness of the meaning of the costume in front of them.

And the guys in the costume like the attention. It's very sexual. It's why Halloween is so fun. And the sound of "Ranger" adds a certain frisson they couldn't buy from a pole dancer at a strip club.

Response by SSgt Jim Gilmore made May 14 at 2017 4:47 AM

SSgt Jim Gilmore — Sun, 14 May 2017 04:47:59 -0400

I live in SEA. If the US had as many chopper pilots as I have allegedly met over here, we'd have a helluva surplus and no losses.

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made May 18 at 2017 10:46 AM

COL Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 18 May 2017 10:46:56 -0400

The guy on the left is an obvious poser. The guy on the right doesn't look completely off except he's got a couple of badges that don't make sense for a SF officer...The guy on the right apparently claimed to be a retired Marine who won the MoH....Both of them should be taken out and shot or have to spend the rest of their lives with Traitor Manning...

Response by SP6 Ron W. made May 18 at 2017 5:51 PM

SP6 Ron W. — Thu, 18 May 2017 17:51:04 -0400

My brother was Special Forces & the true warrior in our family. He has always been reticent about telling stories about those times and his 31 years as a fireman, except for the goofy events. We had not really talked about his experiences until he had a hip replacement surgery about 18 months ago and over a long afternoon in the hospital, we shared the most ever in our lives. Nor as he ever talked about people who are posers, probably because he does not care to talk about people who are assholes. My brother is my hero and a quiet one.

Response by PO3 Christopher Jonah Nelson made May 18 at 2017 6:08 PM

PO3 Christopher Jonah Nelson — Thu, 18 May 2017 18:08:27 -0400

From my understanding the majority of stolen valour is not civilians trying to be important military members but actual military members claiming what they never got, like an AN claiming to have been a PO3 or a HN claiming to be FMF when they never went to the USMC.

Response by 1SG James Matthews made May 18 at 2017 7:28 PM

1SG James Matthews — Thu, 18 May 2017 19:28:01 -0400

Once you talk to one it does not take long to determine if they are true or false.

Response by PO2 Jim Rittich made May 19 at 2017 7:04 AM

PO2 Jim Rittich — Fri, 19 May 2017 07:04:23 -0400

Posers have no respect for service. They don't understand our reasons for serving. In an attempt to make up for low self-esteem, they believe by self-aggrandizing people will give them the ego boost, they cannot achieve on their own.

Response by 1SG Patrick Sims made May 19 at 2017 7:46 PM

1SG Patrick Sims — Fri, 19 May 2017 19:46:43 -0400

Lets face it---The Rangers and Seals are glamorous. Theirs no glummer in burning shit or filling sand bags. Join the army and learn the scientific way to fill sand bags----Be a Marine and clean your shit for inspection------and last but not least---Join the navy---and be a janitor.

Response by SFC Ron Gitzendanner made May 21 at 2017 11:43 PM

SFC Ron Gitzendanner — Sun, 21 May 2017 23:43:58 -0400

I am usually a very simple person, I love and try to live by the "KISS" method "Keep It Simple Stupid". Posers should be shot, then they can pose as the ultimate warrior, a Purple Heart recipient....posthumously!!!!!

Response by SSgt Nicholas Merchant made May 22 at 2017 5:48 AM

SSgt Nicholas Merchant — Mon, 22 May 2017 05:48:50 -0400

IMO there are 2 reasons the first has been covered its easy to build the story for the highspeed jobs but the 2nd reason goes far deeper lets face it our society glorifies war and we turn to movies to see a hero.... my story I tell people is of my hero while I served in combat his job was to ready our gear like fill canteenscheck for faulty vests I think he was supply not sure but if we were going out he was making sure he did everything he could to better our chance of retur. I get asked if I ever saw combat I show pictures and say nope I saw men women and children shooting weapons at everything... i get asked if i killed anyone I say nope but many bullets did. See combat scared shit out of me but dancing in our tent after a long day was my favorite part

Response by Sgt Frank Nelson made May 25 at 2017 1:40 PM

Sgt Frank Nelson — Thu, 25 May 2017 13:40:44 -0400

I think most of the time its used as a pick up line to impress women...other times they know that those they are talking to will most likely never check or call them on it...also probably gives them a little chubby.....

Response by CPO Ed Hoover made Jun 1 at 2017 8:28 PM

CPO Ed Hoover — Thu, 01 Jun 2017 20:28:31 -0400

Just this past memorial day, my wife and I attended a service in Boalsburg Pa. Boalsburg lays claim as the birthplace of Memorial Day, as 3 women placed flowers on geaves of men killed in the civil war, this was 1864. Anyway, I'm retired Navy, had a ships ballcap on, and a shirt honoring, Navy SEALs those that dispatched Osama bin Laden. I had 2 people comment on the shirt, and ask me if I was a SEAL. I answered I was a Navy vet, but not a SEAL just saw the shirt online and liked it. I was not pretending to be a SEAL, but I could have lied, and probably gotten away with it, but not my way of doing things. So yeah, I can't figure it either, go with something easy.

Response by PO1 Oscar the Veteran Submariner made Jun 3 at 2017 3:00 PM

PO1 Oscar the Veteran Submariner — Sat, 03 Jun 2017 15:00:51 -0400

Poor self esteem. I used to go to the galley to fry eggs and clean up just for something to do on the boat (ssbn). Otherwise I was fixing pumps and ac equipment during my off watch hours. MM1 (ss) 1973-1979.

Response by SGT Michael Loving made Jun 5 at 2017 3:01 PM

SGT Michael Loving — Mon, 05 Jun 2017 15:01:50 -0400

I'm sure there are more stories of stolen valor that don't included the Special Forces community connection. The ones that go over board are just easier to spot. The Special Forces community is small and and very protective of the legacies so they have people that are more likely to check them out when they run across them.

Response by PO1 Neil Brennan made Jun 6 at 2017 9:13 PM

PO1 Neil Brennan — Tue, 06 Jun 2017 21:13:24 -0400

I'm sure part of it is bad boy syndrome. They think if they appear dangerous or battle weary it makes them more attractive. Some of them try to put on the 1000 yard stare to garner peoples empathy for the tireless guardian. Another possibility is they got their info from a Hollyweird movie and are not even aware that a strong military is one that is well trained and drilled with strong lines of support and supply.

Response by PV2 Claude Knight made Jun 8 at 2017 1:11 PM

PV2 Claude Knight — Thu, 08 Jun 2017 13:11:03 -0400

This what happens when they glorify combat. Every job in the military is an important job. You can't fight on an empty stomach. You can't fight without supplies or weapons and none of those happen without the clerks doing the paperwork or those doing all those jobs in between.

Response by LCpl Rich Baker made Jun 9 at 2017 9:30 AM

LCpl Rich Baker — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 09:30:41 -0400

probably they were inundated and unable to wear their Aluminum Hats outside wtf ! Sf.

Response by 1SG James Matthews made Jun 10 at 2017 9:00 PM

1SG James Matthews — Sat, 10 Jun 2017 21:00:37 -0400

If they claim Ranger ask em what class and what year--should roll off their tongue immediately. Also ask em how many were in their class and how many got tabbed---then ask em if they made any apex jumps while there.

Response by SSG John Jensen made Jun 12 at 2017 4:31 PM

SSG John Jensen — Mon, 12 Jun 2017 16:31:52 -0400

there seems to be a case of stolen glory in the family tree - as a private in the Union Cavalry who was captured, fuloughed, and died before the end of the war -
How is a Private stolen glory you ask - Cavalry, not Infantry

Response by PO1 Tony Holland made Jun 12 at 2017 11:20 PM

PO1 Tony Holland — Mon, 12 Jun 2017 23:20:01 -0400

I especially like the ones that use all of the above at the same time

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 15 at 2017 12:59 PM

COL Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 15 Jun 2017 12:59:14 -0400

I think that you shouldn't let your military service define who you are. I'm proud to have been a Soldier but I'm retired now so anything I did in the Army is ancient history.

Response by LCpl Rich Baker made Jun 16 at 2017 8:03 AM

LCpl Rich Baker — Fri, 16 Jun 2017 08:03:31 -0400

Same Question , different day , sooo, here is my Answer Again ! How the Fook would I know Why they do what they do ! shit enough with same same SF.

Response by MAJ John Douglas made Jun 19 at 2017 8:22 AM

MAJ John Douglas — Mon, 19 Jun 2017 08:22:20 -0400

Why would they pose as a PVT E1 with nothing but the uniform? With their lack of self esteem, they want to rise to the top right away. I have seen photos of some with SGM rank on their sleeves and officer rank on their shoulders and collars. An interesting concept that most Sergeant Majors would frown on for sure, in their own special way!

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 22 at 2017 2:51 AM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 22 Jun 2017 02:51:43 -0400

Because simply telling someone that they were a "POG" isn't cool or memorable enough for the attention whores of today. If they're not a Navy SEAL or a Green Beret, it's not kick ass enough to be cool.

Response by PFC Jeffrey Hughes made Jun 22 at 2017 2:23 PM

PFC Jeffrey Hughes — Thu, 22 Jun 2017 14:23:31 -0400

Because they are shitheads and know that they are true cowards and are to scared to leave home knowing that they could never make it thru basic, much less any special training.

Response by SSG Steve Finlan made Jun 26 at 2017 9:32 AM

SSG Steve Finlan — Mon, 26 Jun 2017 09:32:25 -0400

I think you're spot-on, Minchey. It's a fantasy-land thing. I had a relatively obscure MOS (98G/SIGINT cryptolinguist) and actually got to work with a lot of the "Cool Guys" at one point or another and even attempted SFAS in 2003. We were more or less roadies and sound crew for them, or "environment" during exercises. Consequently I have some pretty cool souvenirs which occasionally draw stupid questions ("ever kill anyone...?"). My usual response is "no, but one night during an exercise we did 100mph-tape these two Airmen to their cots in our tent because they were being really annoying, at the request of a Marine Recon MSG...." - sorry kiddies, that's as "SOF" as I ever got. I find telling them true stories of tedium usually shuts them up.

Response by Cpl Ryan Berry made Jun 26 at 2017 9:58 AM

Cpl Ryan Berry — Mon, 26 Jun 2017 09:58:06 -0400

Cause they are too scared to call themselves a Marine. Also they know no one will believe them if they look like a "bag nasty". They may be posers but they still have a little common sense. Semper FI

Response by SPC Dana Egbert made Jun 27 at 2017 8:47 PM

SPC Dana Egbert — Tue, 27 Jun 2017 20:47:50 -0400

Why can't a poser pretend to be an Army Engineer? ;)

Response by Cpl Daniel Deselms made Jun 27 at 2017 10:04 PM

Cpl Daniel Deselms — Tue, 27 Jun 2017 22:04:06 -0400

Go big.

Response by HN Eric Bechtel made Jun 28 at 2017 1:30 AM

HN Eric Bechtel — Wed, 28 Jun 2017 01:30:19 -0400

That is what they see in movies and on TV and then they try to use the jargon and usually get it wrong

Response by 1SG Billye Jackson made Jun 28 at 2017 7:55 AM

1SG Billye Jackson — Wed, 28 Jun 2017 07:55:06 -0400

How about they are just Spineless Ass Holes.

Response by PVT Raymond Lopez made Jun 28 at 2017 7:56 AM

PVT Raymond Lopez — Wed, 28 Jun 2017 07:56:19 -0400

WELL I DO LIKE TO TELL STORIES ABOUT THE DANGEROUS WORK I DID IN VIETNAM!!!!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 28 at 2017 8:15 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 28 Jun 2017 08:15:04 -0400

There are 1000 movies about the flashy units for posers to use in the construction of their deceit. Those 20th century fox abnormalities are also what we use as the best evidence to identify the pose. Everyone knows they are going to be asked what unit they belong to, everyone with Netflix knows seal team six. But what poser has ever heard of 9th esb?

Response by SFC Phil Marshall made Jun 28 at 2017 6:22 PM

SFC Phil Marshall — Wed, 28 Jun 2017 18:22:52 -0400

Becuase. Most military movies these guy watch all. Have something to do with the special ops. Groups you mentioned

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 29 at 2017 2:22 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 29 Jun 2017 02:22:38 -0400

When the pieces of crap see the Ranger uniform with the tower of power tabs and the Airborne and Air Assault wings the Combat Patch and when they step away from their HALO game they truly believe their accomplishments and game levels they have achieved give them the right to wear and award themselves ribbons because they see that the real soldiers get attention from pretty girls and they want that attention. They see soldiers getting free stuff not realizing that the soldiers have declined and gratefully said thank you. They really have no clue what RANGERS, SF and SEALS have to go through for training. I believe we should gather them up and put them through the paces of the Rangers , SF and Seal training, and if they survive maybe they'll have different look at the things we had to so for our country. If not put them in a military prison and tell the inmates why they are there, should be interesting.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 29 at 2017 2:29 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 29 Jun 2017 02:29:56 -0400

That movie In The Army Now was an insult to Army Support Teams . Without them we couldn't have done crap in Iraq. I praised them any chance I got. Thank you Army Logistics for what you do.

Response by SGT Daniel Mcwilliams made Jun 29 at 2017 3:45 AM

SGT Daniel Mcwilliams — Thu, 29 Jun 2017 03:45:15 -0400

The posers like using the Rangers,SF,Seals because they want the glory from those high quality soldiers

Response by PO3 Joe Smith made Jul 1 at 2017 1:13 PM

PO3 Joe Smith — Sat, 01 Jul 2017 13:13:03 -0400

If your gonna lie about flying, you might as well be an astronaut....lol

Response by Cpl William Connaughton made Jul 1 at 2017 10:04 PM

Cpl William Connaughton — Sat, 01 Jul 2017 22:04:10 -0400

What if you're a for real vet who served with a specialized unit? No way to prove it on the net unless someone here knows you.
Moose
3D3, 3rd Recon Bn
RVN 67-68

Response by 1LT Chuck Collins made Jul 2 at 2017 12:32 AM

1LT Chuck Collins — Sun, 02 Jul 2017 00:32:06 -0400

Most of them can never get the ribbon/qualification badges etc. arranged in proper order either.

Response by Sgt John Erskine made Jul 2 at 2017 9:41 AM

Sgt John Erskine — Sun, 02 Jul 2017 09:41:47 -0400

The need to be impressive and attention getting seems to be the most driving factor in these posers !

Response by PO3 Donald A Helms made Jul 2 at 2017 3:18 PM

PO3 Donald A Helms — Sun, 02 Jul 2017 15:18:19 -0400

They are weak and try to make them selfs look strong and unapproachable.

Response by CW4 Angel C. made Jul 2 at 2017 5:47 PM

CW4 Angel C. — Sun, 02 Jul 2017 17:47:27 -0400

Well to me what's even worse than a civilian poser is a veteran (usually younger ones) lying about their service and experiences in the military. It happens at every bike rally I go to. Everyone was SF yet they don't speak a foreign language. Navy sniper but not SEAL training. Top secret sh!t yet they talking about it? And the list goes on. Stories that at the very least are questionable. Where's the integrity? Where's the pride in your many skills as a support personnel to include basic infantry? Like our society and even the military has convinced some veterans, and service members, that their level of pride is tied in to what their MOS or branch was in the military or how many times they've been shot at or shot their individual weapon at the enemy? How do you deal with these guys? I hate to embarrass another vet so I just say something to the effect of their story not adding up then cut sling!

Response by David Maxey made Jul 2 at 2017 7:22 PM

David Maxey — Sun, 02 Jul 2017 19:22:14 -0400

I think this is a travesty. My father served in Vietnam and never has he claimed to be something he is not.

Response by SFC Darrell Paulk Jr. made Jul 3 at 2017 6:29 AM

SFC Darrell Paulk Jr. — Mon, 03 Jul 2017 06:29:28 -0400

They are all wanna be!

Response by SGT Doug Prescott made Jul 3 at 2017 5:59 PM

SGT Doug Prescott — Mon, 03 Jul 2017 17:59:16 -0400

I'm sure they do it to get more attention. Just look at all the medals,ribbons and badges they pile on.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 3 at 2017 10:06 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 03 Jul 2017 22:06:04 -0400

Because no one, outside of the military, know of the "other" MOS'. Stop trying to figure out why posers do what they do and study for the soldier if the month board and do some pushups while you are at it.

Response by SPC Jan Allbright, M.Sc., R.S. made Jul 4 at 2017 11:46 PM

SPC Jan Allbright, M.Sc., R.S. — Tue, 04 Jul 2017 23:46:59 -0400

In other places I have posted the saga of the "Battle for Fire Support Base Rita".
In this battle there was a cook starting breakfast when one of the many wire attacks hit.
He shut down the burners, went to the rear of the cook shack, sat behind a M60 and ran a couple hundred rounds at the enemy. When the attack subsided, he went back to the grill, fired up the burners and finished off breakfast.

I have NEVER met any poser with a story like that ....

Response by SP6 Robert Frost made Jul 5 at 2017 3:22 AM

SP6 Robert Frost — Wed, 05 Jul 2017 03:22:55 -0400

Because they are all low lifes,who would crap there pants if they where ever in a war

Response by Cpl Will Fariss made Jul 5 at 2017 6:17 AM

Cpl Will Fariss — Wed, 05 Jul 2017 06:17:22 -0400

And they are always officers or high ranking enlisted.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 5 at 2017 9:28 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 05 Jul 2017 09:28:06 -0400

Those are the ones that can be easily exposed, I am sure there are allot more going around pretending to be just plain solders that have not been exposed.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 5 at 2017 1:59 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 05 Jul 2017 13:59:01 -0400

Then he can say my records are sealed. Secret mission. BS.

Response by Sgt Wayne Wood made Jul 5 at 2017 3:37 PM

Sgt Wayne Wood — Wed, 05 Jul 2017 15:37:00 -0400

Compensating for Erectile Disfunction

Response by PO2 Leonard Jenkins made Jul 5 at 2017 4:03 PM

PO2 Leonard Jenkins — Wed, 05 Jul 2017 16:03:58 -0400

I always wonder what they think when they look in the mirror the next morning. Angst? "Nobody will remember?". Sad that someone has a need to do this.

Response by PFC Rick Phillips made Jul 6 at 2017 10:18 AM

PFC Rick Phillips — Thu, 06 Jul 2017 10:18:05 -0400

I don't know but you are correct. I was a 52d my job was to keep two generators running for field hospitals. At least I was attached to an infantry unit so I got to train with squared away soldiers. It definitely made me a better soldier and damn I had some fun. I miss them days.

Response by PFC Rick Phillips made Jul 6 at 2017 10:22 AM

PFC Rick Phillips — Thu, 06 Jul 2017 10:22:07 -0400

I was a generator tech that's pretty freaking close to water purification

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 6 at 2017 10:30 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 06 Jul 2017 10:30:22 -0400

Go big or go home. That's probably why.

Response by SrA Dean Holland Jr made Jul 6 at 2017 3:05 PM

SrA Dean Holland Jr — Thu, 06 Jul 2017 15:05:05 -0400

I think most don't really realize what other jobs there are and that whole everyone is a soldier but had a trade thing we were taught yeah they don't get that either. Also you know the only people who see combat or those special elite in the military lol. Not meant to disrespect anyone just starting my thoughts and how these people think! It's sick, demeaning, and flat out disrespectful to ask whom serve! It takes everyone doing there signed specially to the best of their ability to win the battle and in the end claim the victory! Thankyou to all who served!

Response by SrA Dean Holland Jr made Jul 6 at 2017 3:16 PM

SrA Dean Holland Jr — Thu, 06 Jul 2017 15:16:30 -0400

Why claim to be a Seal? No offense but I believe if you do the research you will find that our most elite fighting force is USAF Pararescue and Combat Control Guys! Imagine that! Yeah the "ChairForce" lol. But for real my hats off to all the elite guys there job is kick ass and I really love that those guys risked their lives to keep me safe while I did my job! Who The Hell?!?! P.O.L!!!

Response by SN Earl Robinson made Jul 6 at 2017 3:31 PM

SN Earl Robinson — Thu, 06 Jul 2017 15:31:26 -0400

The wantabe's want what they know they could never work to achieve on they're own! Pathetic losers!

Response by PO1 Rudy Dowdy made Jul 6 at 2017 8:58 PM

PO1 Rudy Dowdy — Thu, 06 Jul 2017 20:58:37 -0400

They just want to share the glory that TV gives these jobs. unquote . Of they only knew the other mos's cover for the small groups. And do just as much if not more.

Response by Sgt Joseph Acquavita made Jul 7 at 2017 6:59 PM

Sgt Joseph Acquavita — Fri, 07 Jul 2017 18:59:04 -0400

The biggest difference between a true soldier and these imposters or fakes or whatever you wanna call them is that these Jokers would kill to protect their own right while a true soldier will die protecting someone else's!

Response by SGT Marc Morris made Jul 8 at 2017 8:20 AM

SGT Marc Morris — Sat, 08 Jul 2017 08:20:14 -0400

You know your at a bar half the guys you talk to say they were Either rangers or SF it kills me that 60% say that and only 2% of the enlisted are that ha ha

Response by TSgt James Carson made Jul 8 at 2017 2:05 PM

TSgt James Carson — Sat, 08 Jul 2017 14:05:17 -0400

It's the specialties you always see in the movies and TV. Not much glamor doing work that often supports to glamor guys.

Response by PFC Alex Fitzgerald made Jul 8 at 2017 8:18 PM

PFC Alex Fitzgerald — Sat, 08 Jul 2017 20:18:09 -0400

Maybe they just go off what they see on the movies lol... They made a movie for EOD but I was a 25 uniform and I've yet to see a movie about commo, except maybe Windtalkers or Codetalkers whatever it was. They want to be seen as a badass, they watch Navy Seals from thirty years ago or Act Of Valor, maybe Black Hawk Down and they get all pumped up and go to the surplus store and try to get it together...

Response by PO3 Johnathan Heath made Jul 9 at 2017 5:57 AM

PO3 Johnathan Heath — Sun, 09 Jul 2017 05:57:23 -0400

Through my own research I found out that a lot of people who commit acts of Stolen Valor served in the military at one time but they did not have a distinguished career they were either kicked out for whatever reason or medically separated in boot camp so they fabricate a story of their service no way to feel better about them self in a matter of speaking

Response by SGT Ryan Davis made Jul 9 at 2017 8:31 AM

SGT Ryan Davis — Sun, 09 Jul 2017 08:31:00 -0400

Is it bad that the guy on the left did a better job on his branch insignia than most of my soldiers did when I was in? Why is 5/8 inches soooooo hard to do lol

Response by Sgt Robert Cioffi made Jul 9 at 2017 2:28 PM

Sgt Robert Cioffi — Sun, 09 Jul 2017 14:28:29 -0400

I think it's because a civilian does and know what a 0311 is or a rifleman, or grunt. All you here on the news is Seal, SF, sniper, etc. so they try and pass of as one. The easiest way to expose them is to ask there MOS, and what unit they where in.
When I get one I just keep asking questions until they turn red with embarrassment.

Response by SPC Edward Banning made Jul 9 at 2017 4:24 PM

SPC Edward Banning — Sun, 09 Jul 2017 16:24:18 -0400

Because its easy to copy the shit you see most often on TV. And theyre the most "exciting" soldiers. How often are Mechanics or cooks or engineers made out to be super soldiers?

Response by CDR Kevin Sherry made Jul 9 at 2017 4:45 PM

CDR Kevin Sherry — Sun, 09 Jul 2017 16:45:11 -0400

The guys who are the real deal usually never talk about the crap they have been through. My father in law never talked about his experience in WW II, upon his passing I did a unit search to get his details for his internment in a national cemetery. Turns out his division went all the way across North Africa, all the way through Italy and into Germany. He had 577 days in theater and of those 517 were logged as combat days, the most he ever said was that he did his part, and that was it, he never told us he had a Bronze Star and a Purple Heart. I served 23 years and the only combat action I saw was Desert Storm, and I was on a Command Staff, so no real risk to my butt.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 9 at 2017 5:15 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 09 Jul 2017 17:15:38 -0400

Who wants to pretend to be a Cook, HR, Legal, Mechanic, Finance, or Supply?

Let's start with this guy's uniform though, let me know if I miss anything.
"MSG Anderson"
- Medals & Ribbons?
- Bright and regular badges?
- CIB, CAB, CMB, 2 Parachutist Wings?
- Expert Badge is fine but people don't usually put more than 1 clasp on it anymore. Not against AR but apparently it looks dumb to some people.
- Medals are out of order - Distinguished Service Cross, Silver Star, Bronze Star, and Purple Heart?
- Ribbons don't reflect medals.
- 2 fourragère? Doesn't have his Infantry Blue Chord either. We only have a few units that can wear the fourragère right? Then there's the gold one for aid's to a General I think. No other colors are authorized outside of special ceremonies I do believe.
- That beret? lol

Response by SPC Robert Longsden made Jul 10 at 2017 4:02 AM

SPC Robert Longsden — Mon, 10 Jul 2017 04:02:43 -0400

Because that group of guys are all just badasses and the people who do it need to make them self look and feel better in there on mind and and some of them really actually do believe they were

Response by SPC Robert Gibbs made Jul 10 at 2017 10:40 AM

SPC Robert Gibbs — Mon, 10 Jul 2017 10:40:23 -0400

I was a 63b light wheeled vehicle mechanic so far no one has tried to pose as one of those. Only special ops. I guess that if your going to pose as military personnel,you want to awe everyone you meet. Something wrong with a persons self worth to do that.

Response by Scott David made Jul 10 at 2017 6:13 PM

Scott David — Mon, 10 Jul 2017 18:13:39 -0400

It appears to me they want the attention using all the ribbon colours which at the same time is supposed to intimidate bonifide service men/women into not questioning their pretend authority.

Response by AN Christopher Crayne made Jul 10 at 2017 7:21 PM

AN Christopher Crayne — Mon, 10 Jul 2017 19:21:24 -0400

I believe it goes further into a mental disorder. These people crave attention and what better way then saying I was a Navy Seal. To get the honor and prestige. Yet no way of really disputing it as looking into, it as military records etc are not easy to review and access. They are attention seekers who don't know (or do) they are disrespectful and shameful. Sad really as they will be exposed and shamed for it. I'm fully for exposing them. As should you!

Response by SP5 Larry Sheppard made Jul 11 at 2017 12:07 AM

SP5 Larry Sheppard — Tue, 11 Jul 2017 00:07:42 -0400

All veterans raise their hand, take the oath and serve their country most commonly in the MOS they selected. However, you are a soldier first and they have the right to use you where they need you.

Response by PO3 Jimmy Pearce made Jul 12 at 2017 8:03 PM

PO3 Jimmy Pearce — Wed, 12 Jul 2017 20:03:37 -0400

Because that is what most movies glorify and a civilian knows nothing of the other ratings such as Radioman or Medic etc

Response by Sgt Asm 826 made Jul 13 at 2017 3:25 PM

Sgt Asm 826 — Thu, 13 Jul 2017 15:25:13 -0400

Who's going to try to get a date saying they were in the Air Force, worked in Special Services, and handed out volleyballs and racketball rackets at the gym at Edwards? Engine mechanic? Radar tech? Truck driver? Nope, nope, nope. But some jump wings and a Purple Heart and a really good story....

Response by SGT Ken Nash made Jul 13 at 2017 9:23 PM

SGT Ken Nash — Thu, 13 Jul 2017 21:23:04 -0400

Because they do not have the intestinal fortitude and balls to be 11B2P, fuck all posers

Response by PO1 Raymond Sauter made Jul 14 at 2017 10:21 AM

PO1 Raymond Sauter — Fri, 14 Jul 2017 10:21:36 -0400

Because you don't "Get the Chicks" by telling them you spent your entire enlistment "Scrubbing shitters and swabbing decks!"

Or even if you were like me. When I was not scrubbing shitters or swabbing decks, I was maintaining weapon systems on ASW helicopters. The closest I ever came to seeing actual combat was manning a .50 cal during patrol duty off the coast of Iran in the 80s. We were not actually at war with anybody and I liked it that way! Boring, but I'm proud of my service nonetheless!

Response by Cpl Ryan Berry made Jul 14 at 2017 12:27 PM

Cpl Ryan Berry — Fri, 14 Jul 2017 12:27:55 -0400

They are too scared to pose as Marines and they will get busted every time. RAH!

Response by FN Mike Barry made Jul 14 at 2017 9:26 PM

FN Mike Barry — Fri, 14 Jul 2017 21:26:45 -0400

The fact is anyone who has seen combat does not go telling stories of there tour to non military who weren't there. That is usually the best way to pick out the posers.

Response by PO2 Philip Cole II made Jul 15 at 2017 6:46 PM

PO2 Philip Cole II — Sat, 15 Jul 2017 18:46:13 -0400

Sounds more glorious to others. Gets that extra respect or ooooh from others. I just think about how crappy his life is and how low his self esteem to need this undeserved boost of glory to his ego.

Response by MSG Michael McEleney made Jul 16 at 2017 5:56 PM

MSG Michael McEleney — Sun, 16 Jul 2017 17:56:34 -0400

Because it's the only thing that gets their little peckers up.

Response by SP5 Gregory Brown made Jul 16 at 2017 11:49 PM

SP5 Gregory Brown — Sun, 16 Jul 2017 23:49:04 -0400

They use those classifications to make them look bigger and badder

Response by PFC Alan Moore made Jul 17 at 2017 6:13 AM

PFC Alan Moore — Mon, 17 Jul 2017 06:13:58 -0400

If you're going to lie, go big.

I was an REB, (rear echelon bastard), combat support services, depot level maintenance. Not the most glamorous MOS but I never felt the need to embellish.

Response by SGT Jonathan Hyde made Jul 17 at 2017 12:43 PM

SGT Jonathan Hyde — Mon, 17 Jul 2017 12:43:05 -0400

You can be a cook, mechanic anywhere. Only the Navy has SEALS. Only the Army has Green Berets

Response by SP5 Walter Hensley made Jul 17 at 2017 7:54 PM

SP5 Walter Hensley — Mon, 17 Jul 2017 19:54:55 -0400

I was a dog handler and was in country 2 years in the central highlands

Response by PO2 Gerry Roberson Sr. made Jul 17 at 2017 8:05 PM

PO2 Gerry Roberson Sr. — Mon, 17 Jul 2017 20:05:08 -0400

Civilians are as a group sadly naive to the finer details of the military uniform and nomenclature. Given the present atmosphere(especially since 9/11) the military is held in such esteem, it's roughly a "reverential worshipfulness" towards the serviceperson and veteran. The specfor individual is seen as the one of derring-do, the stuff movies are made of, therefore the cachet of valor, the badass cool. My service was aboard carriers(catapult/gear crew, sqadron flight deck ops)topside, where death can come just as quickly and easily as on any battlefield. "Hey! My work topside sends forth the aircraft taking these secret squirrels on their classified missions, pal!", is the thing I say most often when told of the "secondary nature" of my duties.

Response by MSgt Brian Williams made Jul 18 at 2017 5:13 PM

MSgt Brian Williams — Tue, 18 Jul 2017 17:13:00 -0400

A co worker while en route PCS from Kadena AB - Stateside thought it would be a great idea to buy some pilot wings to wear while at home on leave and impress the ladies. Should have waited until he was home. At the time Kadena was one of the busiest flying bases in the Pacific, F-15 Wing, tanker squadron, RC135s, and the SR-71 plus it was a hub for MAC flights around the Pacific. He pinned the wings on before he attempted to leave Kadena. He got jacked up inside 10 minutes of walking into the MAC Terminal - a Senior Airman with Senior Pilot Wings. He missed his flight because he had a meeting with a very pissed off Colonel. I was so glad he didn't work for me. Our NCOIC was there standing tall as well. He was so mad I thought his nose was going to just start bleeding. Anyway, people will try to represent the most glamorous/prestigious job to make themselves look better. The thing with my co worker he thought wings were just wings. Had no idea there were different wings.

Response by MSgt Kerry Lundy made Jul 18 at 2017 5:18 PM

MSgt Kerry Lundy — Tue, 18 Jul 2017 17:18:05 -0400

After I retired I drove a truck over the road for 16 years because it was a job I truly enjoyed and loved. It's amazing how many drivers you run into who were seals,SF, CCT,Rangers and PJs. Some of those I knew when they began the story about being Nam vets it's was impossible you could tell by looking at them they may have been in high school but not possibly in Vietnam. I would not tell them I was a vet or military retiree I would bait them and let them dig themselves in deeper. Some of the Vietnam stories I knew were nothing but lies because I was there. To hear them, they were John Wayne, Sgt York, Rambo and Chuck Norris all wrapped up into one and that's when I would dump on them. IF it was weekend and we were stuck in the truck stop waiting to deliver on Monday you wouldn't see them again until Monday morning doing a walk around their truck and leaving.

Response by SSG Cliff Karolak made Jul 18 at 2017 7:45 PM

SSG Cliff Karolak — Tue, 18 Jul 2017 19:45:08 -0400

I told my buddy one day during a 4th of July parade. The first Nam vet I meet today. That was a company clerk, motor pool mechanic, supply clerk. Il buy that guy a beer. To my surprise met a troop who was a 71L clerk typist. Bought him a beer.

Response by SP6 Bill Wescott made Jul 20 at 2017 9:36 AM

SP6 Bill Wescott — Thu, 20 Jul 2017 09:36:07 -0400

First, if questioned about where they served or what unit they are in, they can "stonewall" you with the " that's classified" response. Second, how many commercials have there been glorifying military cooks, drivers or supply personnel? Probably none. The commercials are typically glorifying the Airborne, Rangers, SEALS or Pararescue- in other words, the "cool stuff". For every front-line troop, there are typically 7 personnel supporting him/her. These people are performing unexciting, but necessary, tasks.

Response by Col Jonathan Brazee made Jul 20 at 2017 12:25 PM

Col Jonathan Brazee — Thu, 20 Jul 2017 12:25:00 -0400

I was going to dive school at Pearl Harbor as a first lieutenant, and after a long day, a couple of us were in our PT gear, lounging by the sub-base pool at the BOQ eating a burger when colors sounded. We immediately came to attention, but two tables over, a lieutenant commander kept seated while eating his meal. After colors concluded, one of my fellow lieutenants marched up to the lieutenant commander and asked why he didn't come to attention. The man looked insolently at my friend and said something like he was eating. My friend simply lit into him with a fervor, and the lieutenant commander, suddenly unsure of himself came to attention while suffering the tirade. At the conclusion, he apologized, using "sir" to address my friend and promising never to do it again. He picked up his unfinished meal and left.

Was my friend out-of-line? Maybe. But it was effective, and I'm willing to bet that lieutenant commander never sat during colors again.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 20 at 2017 3:22 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 20 Jul 2017 15:22:08 -0400

They look weird and disgusting.

Response by SFC Jim Winkle made Jul 20 at 2017 3:22 PM

SFC Jim Winkle — Thu, 20 Jul 2017 15:22:24 -0400

We had cooks and mechanics on missions with us. Any extra gun when we were short handed. One young mechanic did a good 3 or 4 missions with us. After we returned I received a phone call from him drunk a exasperated because his drinking buddies didn't believe he went out on missions with the Infantry since he was JUST a mechanic. You know that old saying, "you are a rifleman first" well we took it literally. Whatever works in a pinch.

Response by A1C Jennifer Meyer made Jul 20 at 2017 9:18 PM

A1C Jennifer Meyer — Thu, 20 Jul 2017 21:18:33 -0400

I have always wondered that myself. They want to look like bad asses. You want to pretend to be a vet, just pick any job. At least then you could have some credibility. Not that I am condoning stolen valor but come. Just say you were in dispersing or supply. But no they think saying they were a Seal or Ranger or SF will get them praise. So sad what people will do for attention.

Response by A1C Jennifer Meyer made Jul 20 at 2017 9:29 PM

A1C Jennifer Meyer — Thu, 20 Jul 2017 21:29:54 -0400

I wonder how many women use stolen valor as opposed to men?

Response by AN Christopher Crayne made Jul 20 at 2017 9:52 PM

AN Christopher Crayne — Thu, 20 Jul 2017 21:52:32 -0400

What would compel someone to commit "Stolen Valor"? Is there some mental health issue that should be addressed?
I keep seeing "Stolen Valor" videos on the Facebook, the cadence of their speech makes me believe that they are not all there. ... More
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2 ANSWERS
Janet McKenzie
Janet McKenzie, Naturopathic Doctor, Nurse, Business Manager, Entrepreneur
Answered Apr 29, 2016
What would compel someone to commit "Stolen Valor"? Is there some mental health issue that should be addressed? I keep seeing "Stolen Valor" videos on the Facebook, the cadence of their speech makes me believe that they are not all there. Perhaps just nervous? As a 68W this is the first thing I think, not "What a disreputable individual" How could we help this person become well again?

That is a compassionate comment on an interesting question.

Some who make stolen valor claims may have psychiatric issues and be in need of treatment.

Others may be insecure, and think the moral implications of their claims are no worse than a buddy telling a fish story. People respect those who have survived intense experiences. War certainly qualifies as that. For a deeply insecure person, the lure of scammed respect might be too much to resist.

If society did a better job of promoting mental health, perhaps there would be fewer instances of the mental impairments that lead to stolen valor claims.
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Nancy Erskine Schreiner
Nancy Erskine Schreiner, PhD Psychology, University of Massachusetts, Amherst
Answered Apr 29, 2016
What compels anyone to insinuate themselves into actions not performed? Certainly a weak ego; a need for approval; poor self esteem; probably a tendency to externalize failures unto others while tending to internalize accomplishment in the absence of personal effort.

It's sad and it's a shame. The flaw likely lies within a personality disorder and unfortunately, personality disorders are difficult to treat.
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Response by TSgt Swanny Swanberg made Jul 23 at 2017 12:30 PM

TSgt Swanny Swanberg — Sun, 23 Jul 2017 12:30:46 -0400

It occurs to me that some of us desperately want to be more than what we really are. Hence, posing as the "best of the best..." What's worse: pissing on or otherwise desecrating our flag, or posing as "one of us?" Both suck big time, but our 1st Amendment guarantees ALL of us the right to act like and be A**Holes.

Response by PO2 Brian Breach made Jul 24 at 2017 9:18 PM

PO2 Brian Breach — Mon, 24 Jul 2017 21:18:49 -0400

Better yet ask them what there enlistment code that is in there DD 214

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 27 at 2017 1:50 PM

PO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 27 Jul 2017 13:50:25 -0400

I think it's a mental health issue really.

Response by CPO Glenn Moss made Jul 28 at 2017 9:15 AM

CPO Glenn Moss — Fri, 28 Jul 2017 09:15:01 -0400

Why?

Because nobody wants to pose as a junior Sailor who spent his years cleaning the bilge or painting the hull. Nobody wants to pose as a junior Soldier who spent his enlistment on limited duty due to medical issues only to be medically discharged.

If you're gonna do it, do it big.

The bright side? Going big is easier to spot.

Response by SP5 Jason Cline made Jul 29 at 2017 1:33 PM

SP5 Jason Cline — Sat, 29 Jul 2017 13:33:57 -0400

They feel people won't respect them if they said they were cooks, transportation,admin, etc... Rangers, seals , special forces are what civilians know as badasses.. So there u go..

Response by Cpl J. R. Lonsway made Aug 3 at 2017 9:07 AM

Cpl J. R. Lonsway — Thu, 03 Aug 2017 09:07:26 -0400

I served USMC 73-76, then served 22 years as a police officer. Towards the end of my career the city hired this numbnut from another state as our police chief (had a proper background been conducted he never would have been hired, but that's another story). This bozo had a lot of stories about how great and wonderful he was over the course of his 20+ years with another agency, but then he started in on military service. Depending on who was in the room, he had either been a SEAL, Green Beret, or Force Recon. He turned down the Medal of Honor for his "heroics" in Vietnam, killed countless "enemy" in hand-to-hand combat, was wounded in combat ten times over (although he didn't have a scratch on his body), etc. You get the picture. We finally got rid of him when his three-year contract expired (the city manager refused to believe the complaints of 25 sergeants, lieutenants and captains that brought the complaint and let the bozo finish out his contract; the manager lost his job, too). We were able to dig up some info on our illustrious chief after he was canned. He actually did serve in the military: he was a clerk typist in the Air Force, served four years stateside.

Why do people engage in this sort of behavior? Psychology 101: the need for attention. And it must be genetic, because he had a son on a major metro police department that was fired for making up stories, too.

Response by Sgt Joseph Acquavita made Aug 4 at 2017 1:05 AM

Sgt Joseph Acquavita — Fri, 04 Aug 2017 01:05:44 -0400

You know whenever I meet someone saying that I ALWAYS tell them how I joined as a 1C2 (Combat Control) but was injured during training in Keesler which lead me to settle as a 1C1 (ATC which is pretty much the first part of the 1C2 training), but since my uncle John Keenan (NOT the senator or the judge) was the actual Director DCIS/O.I.G. (as well as everything from agent to deputy director of the IRS but he ended up retiring as a special consultant for DoS/O.I.G) for many years with investigations under his belt including the famous tailhook investigation as well as many other accomplishments I had the pleasure of meeting some of these amazing people on top of the numerous higher ranking officers that would single me out because he outranked every base commander since he . They do deserve a lot of praise but people seem to forget that just like a quarterback would be nothing without a solid offensive line these guys wouldn't be able to do everything they do without the rest of us regardless of whether you're SF, MP, ATC, pilot or even the cook that ensures they have the necessary nutrition to pull off these feats. Support staff are the offensive line of the military and although my injuries disqualified me from overseas duty until they eventually led to my discharge I am proud to have said that I played the supportive role even though I had much higher ambitions when joining (military in my family is almost expected starting with my great grandfather who was a pilot in WW1 to my grandfather who was a belly gunner in WW2 to my other grandfather who was a marine that fought on Pork Chop Hill Korea, then there's my uncle who was an Army Colonel before his above accomplishments, then myself and now my little brother is an engineer on the SBX-One (my father tried to volunteer for Vietnam but was turned away due to health). With all this in my family my knowledge of things is pretty big so I just start asking them really easy questions like How many HALOs do they have under their belt and while they try to figure shit out I rapid fire ask where they did S.E.R.E school which is a requirement for all SF before telling them to stop disgracing the true heroes because as I said before these knuckleheads may have no problem killing someone to protect their own rights but a true hero (whether it be cop, fireman or soldier) will give their own life to protect SOMEONE ELSE'S life. These people just need to feel relevant because they never would've made it but need a way to feel better than they did growing up with all the wedgies and having to get their underwear down from the flagpole! I did not have the opportunity to serve overseas so for all of you out there whether you are active or former and whether you saw full-on combat or were part of the support system THANK YOU!!!!!!!

Response by PO1 Neil Brennan made Aug 4 at 2017 1:00 PM

PO1 Neil Brennan — Fri, 04 Aug 2017 13:00:13 -0400

A large part of their delusions stem from the fact that they don't understand the basic premise of service. A true warrior is never measured by ostentatious behavior or a profound sense of self-aggrandizement. John Wayne is great in movies and I love his style, but in real life that kind of bravado gets people killed. Real warriors are measured by their contribution to the tribe, not by the ribbons on their dress uniform. Do you act in a manner that contributes to cohesion in the unit. Do you pass on your skills and experiences to your juniors. When you see a menial task that needs doing, do you expedite getting it done or let it lay for the next shipmate to come along. Do you ever give thought to how you can improve your shop, task group, work area, etc.; even though the only reward may be it makes someone else's day a little easier. These are the guys who keep the units rolling. These actions bear fruit and set the foundations. These are our heroes. While I can't express the respect I have for special ops forces and the risks they take, I realize their survival chances go up significantly with the support units that supply, inform, extract and heal them; especially those who continue to care for them and help them deal with the darkness they bring home. For those who understand, they can feel assured that when they see a uniform, the person inside is part of a larger force determined to defend them. Only the frauds and clingers put the Hollywood idea of glory above the soldier/sailor/airmen's creed of service.
Ironically, most people are not aware of the number of special operations units out there. Most have heard of the Navy Seals, Marine Force Recon, Army Rangers, Air Force Pararescue and the highly covert Delta Force; but how many take interest in other specialized forces such as Air Force Combat Controllers, Coast Guard Drug Interdiction and Rescue teams, National Guard SF units and the myriad of specialized operation groups run by military and paramilitary offices such as CIA and NSA. Some units are trained specifically for a potential threat. Only a very few people probably know the full count. There are a lot of dangerous jobs to be done serving our country. Hell, I'd argue that standing on the deck of an aircraft carrier could get you killed quicker than a bolt of lightning or a bad idea entering the head of one of the frauds.

Response by SPC Brett Curry made Aug 6 at 2017 10:54 AM

SPC Brett Curry — Sun, 06 Aug 2017 10:54:50 -0400

Hey, if your going to lie about anything, don't half ass it. Like, I'm a foot doctor. They say I'm a brain surgeon.
They don't understand that it doesn't matter what you did in the military. The special operations forces need the combat Support teams, the cooks to feed them. When they aren't in the field. And that every job in the military is just as important than the next. It's ignorance.

Response by CPL Mike Prendergast made Aug 7 at 2017 11:00 PM

CPL Mike Prendergast — Mon, 07 Aug 2017 23:00:05 -0400

Penis envy

Response by SPC Steven Depuy made Aug 8 at 2017 7:21 AM

SPC Steven Depuy — Tue, 08 Aug 2017 07:21:36 -0400

After my son went to Iraq, and survived 5 IED hits, I started telling people my military service consisted of drinking really good beer and chasing women in West Germany, nothing worth bragging about. I don't get why people act like they were more than what they were, I guess their parents did not show them affection or something and they are craving approval from people.

Response by SSG Buddy Kemper made Aug 8 at 2017 9:58 AM

SSG Buddy Kemper — Tue, 08 Aug 2017 09:58:51 -0400

I know they are goofballs and belong in jail, but on a positive note that joker on the right has one more amazing mustache! Big as a sombrero& gotta love it. When that knucklehead on the left get's released he may have a future in Mr. Bean or Barney Fife impersonations? I know stolen valor is serious and should be prosecuted but many of the comments are as hilarious as they are right on. Cheers to all of you and thanks for your service and keeping and mine me free.

Response by AN Michael Wilder made Aug 12 at 2017 6:49 PM

AN Michael Wilder — Sat, 12 Aug 2017 18:49:17 -0400

These people obviously have unfulfilled dreams and or goals in their lives and are looking for some of the glory and or recognition they are missing. Why would anyone pose as a "lowly" mess crank or infantry grunt? There's no glory in that. But there is in being an SF member. If they can get even one person to acknowledge them in a positive way, can you imagine the happiness that must give them? It doesn't excuse it by any means, but it's the answer to the question posed about why they do it. Of course there are also those who just like to play dress up. I mean, look at these cos-play people...lol! Even a psychiatrist can't explain ALL neuroses...lol!

Response by PO3 Sherry Thornburg made Aug 16 at 2017 10:55 PM

PO3 Sherry Thornburg — Wed, 16 Aug 2017 22:55:45 -0400

Because it is cooler than saying I was a sea cook. Really, that is probably the answer. If you are going to lie, lie spectacularly.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 17 at 2017 8:07 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 17 Aug 2017 08:07:02 -0400

simple, who dreams to brag about a rough tough personnel guy (such as myself right now) who sits in a chair all day pushing papers. Although an admirable position because you are an enabler, its truly nothing to brag about. Being a rockstar is where its at for these guys, but the road to get there is a path few are willing to take.

Response by SrA Robert Tovar made Aug 17 at 2017 1:11 PM

SrA Robert Tovar — Thu, 17 Aug 2017 13:11:44 -0400

They do it because not having served, they don't understand that the Rangers, Seals, SF, etc, could not have done their job unless everybody else did. That's why it should be Mandatory again. If everyone served, they would understand what one must go through when they put on a uniform, No Matter What Their Job Title Is. I was a Radio Relay Equipment Repairman and spent most of my time in remote out of the way places. Anybody who doesn't think that was a tough enough job or vitally needed, just doesn't understand how things work.

Response by PO1 Tom Follis made Aug 17 at 2017 2:28 PM

PO1 Tom Follis — Thu, 17 Aug 2017 14:28:07 -0400

No matter how harmless most posers are or appear to be. It's just WRONG.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 18 at 2017 3:52 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 18 Aug 2017 15:52:05 -0400

No clue. It makes civilians with no military experience think you might snap any second and kill them.

Response by SPC Brian Stephens made Aug 21 at 2017 3:50 PM

SPC Brian Stephens — Mon, 21 Aug 2017 15:50:16 -0400

Every time I am asked at the VA what I did in the military, my answer is, "Um, I swept and mopped and waxed floors. Cleaned a lot of toilets, did KP. Lots of guard duty." Which is true! Almost every morning there was common area maintenance and every now and then in the field, you really did have to do KP, sit on an OP or an LP and on post, I policed for cigarrette butts, copied, did switchboard duty, pulled ACQ, and spent weeks on gate guard duty. When I tell a veteran that, I get a laugh because this is what everybody did. But when I wasn't doing that and besides free time, I was a finslapper and a gunner on a Lance Missile Crew that fired live rounds TWICE in Crete, beating 2nd Fire two years in a row with superior inspection scores. My secondary MOS (and was not what I signed up for) was Wiredog. I did that for several months for some reason until Battalion determined my time was up and sent me to a line Battery to do what I was trained to do.

If you are posing as a SEAL-qualified Green Beret F-16 fighter pilots, you don't have to do duty. You can wear your bullshit uniform however you want and people just assume you know what you are talking about.

Response by LTC Paul Henderson made Aug 22 at 2017 4:12 PM

LTC Paul Henderson — Tue, 22 Aug 2017 16:12:02 -0400

I spent 12 years in SF although I was with the 101st Abn in Vietnam. You're right -- all the wannabes are all SF or SEALs and all their missions were classified. If I want to out them, I'll usually just ask a couple of questions like: How did you guys maintain personnel accountability on a night column movement? I forget, what's the difference between an MP-5L and a MP-5K? What's your first point of performance? The blank stares or quick exits usually follow. Pretty sad.

Response by Sgt Mike Jacobi made Aug 25 at 2017 12:44 AM

Sgt Mike Jacobi — Fri, 25 Aug 2017 00:44:38 -0400

You're right. No one claims to have bee a clerk or a truck driver or security police. I ran into a character at a fast food joint who claimed to ba a Ranger yet had no idea of what regiment he had belonged to, or what his MOs was. And all his service was black ops and off the books. I told him he was full of it and told the young women he was bsing he was a phony. I never did anything special or heroic but I served with several who did and I hate it when people try to steal their glory.

Response by SFC Dave Beran made Sep 1 at 2017 2:00 AM

SFC Dave Beran — Fri, 01 Sep 2017 02:00:54 -0400

No a few posers. None are brave enough to try it on me. I was a Common Guy who went Artillery. Trained a lot of the MLRS units that were in DS. Was at the school during DS. We trained to be Notification Teams. Glad I did not have to.

Response by CPL Jerry Taggart made Sep 1 at 2017 11:46 AM

CPL Jerry Taggart — Fri, 01 Sep 2017 11:46:14 -0400

I was 11 Bravo in Vietnam 69-70, and there is no shame in being a cook, clerk, or whatever, because you never knew when you could be pushed into action. I respect all the men and women that went and served their country. Now posers are a different story and they are usually easy to pick off because they are too often the hero in their war stories. I was no hero, but I served with heros.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 4 at 2017 9:26 AM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 04 Sep 2017 09:26:55 -0400

They're retarded, uneducated, do I need to say anything else.

Response by SGT Loren Hammons made Sep 5 at 2017 8:14 PM

SGT Loren Hammons — Tue, 05 Sep 2017 20:14:01 -0400

Those who pose do not feel that the soldiers warrant the same respect as the SF, Green Beret, Seals, etc... When you realize that those positions however prestigious, are not the only jobs the military offers and that one earns respect by being honest and signing up for service not matter what the job are deserving of respect. I salute the men and women of the Special Forces, the Armed Forces, and the Guard and Reserves. I am proud of my families service to the country and do not know why it is that pretenders need to pretend to feel like men. Maybe they feel that they need to falsely claim having grit to have grit.

Response by LTC Philip Park made Sep 7 at 2017 4:36 PM

LTC Philip Park — Thu, 07 Sep 2017 16:36:34 -0400

You have answered your own question. It is more impressive to say that you were in Special Forces, SEAL, etc. I think a lot people have seen movies about these types of soldiers and can relate to them easier than a cook, although I do remember a Steven Segal movie about his being a cook on a ship when it was taken over by terrorists and he saved the day.

Response by SGT Jim Arnold made Sep 8 at 2017 3:05 PM

SGT Jim Arnold — Fri, 08 Sep 2017 15:05:33 -0400

because Corp level Signal Corp Soldiers are not glamorous enough

Response by MAJ Todd Lamb made Sep 10 at 2017 1:00 AM

MAJ Todd Lamb — Sun, 10 Sep 2017 01:00:19 -0400

Because they watched a movie and sincerely believe automatic weapons can be fired with one hand. Who knows? Just call them out. I served for three years in the Marine Corps and got my first ribbon, the Good conduct medal. When I retired from the Army 30 years later I had 26 more (including 2-6 awards of the same medal) and a slew of "I was there" ribbons. Of course, as an airborne infantry officer and three wars later I can easily prove my right to wear them - which is exactly why I don't.

Response by MSgt James "Buck" Buchanan made Sep 11 at 2017 11:21 PM

MSgt James "Buck" Buchanan — Mon, 11 Sep 2017 23:21:04 -0400

I think that many of the "posers" are trying to live out a fantasy and soothe their alter ego for a life that they were never able to have in reality. Some may have a legitimate reason for the impersonation, such as not meeting the requirements to serve, and are trying to make up for other shortcomings. I think there are also those who as a protest of the military try to gain the respect and benefits earned by those who have served. It could be argued that John Wayne soothed his alter ego by playing all of the military roles he did because he was not able to serve on active duty during WWII. Sometimes we have to look beyond the result and see what the cause is.

Response by PFC Miles Hicks made Sep 28 at 2017 1:08 AM

PFC Miles Hicks — Thu, 28 Sep 2017 01:08:12 -0400

Exactly! I met a real Sailor that told me he was reporting for Sniper School at Naval Base Kitsap. Can't B.S.a local. We don't have a sniper school here. Even active duty are trying to pose.

Response by J B made Sep 28 at 2017 8:30 PM

J B — Thu, 28 Sep 2017 20:30:44 -0400

This is probably because those jobs are harder to verify, and generally considered badass by the civ sector. Honestly, though I do worry about when my hubby retires. He did a blue-to-green at the 15 year point, and is allowed by regulation to wear both Army and Navy badges/warfare pins/ribbons. We're at the 22 year point now, and he's been at the pointy end in both services, so there's a LOT of "been there, done that" chest candy (I've literally lost count of deployments) - to the point that he's got more ribbons than a lot of GO's, so when he can get away with it, he only wears the bare minimum. He gets plenty of funny looks now as it is, but within the community, it's at least a good icebreaker/talking point since he's still AD, and can prove it. But once he retires...

Response by COL Mike Walton made Sep 29 at 2017 4:28 PM

COL Mike Walton — Fri, 29 Sep 2017 16:28:59 -0400

Say the word "Soldier" and the first thought from many is someone "elite" -- Ranger, Special Forces, SEAL (even though that's a Navy/Marine Corps operator), DELTA. When you say the word "Solider" that's the first thought. The second though is "Infantry" or some character, like "Rambo".

If the "posers" would simply say "Combat Signaleer" or "Sapper" or even "Tanker", their "story of glory" would be much more believable and less likely to be investigated or questioned. For every "Ranger" or "SF A Team operator" that is out there, there are hundreds of "regular Joes and Janes" who probably did shoot down 28 Iraqis and cleared three landmines, saving the lives of three small children in the process, earning them the Silver Star or the Distinngusihed Service Cross. And if they actually did some homework and "told the tale" that hey, they enlisted, went to SF school and was washed out, but got assigned to a Signal or Intel unit and got deployed -- and THEN did all of that crap they alllegely did -- their story would tend to stand up, be understood (everyone wants to hear about that guy or gal who "washed out" or "wasn't good enough for the first team" but had the balls to prove himself or herself by finding a way to excel) and be accepted as "one of the people."

But nah. Everyone wants to go from "Zero to hero" without all of the crapola in the middle of people's careers.

That's my best guess why....

Response by SFC Jim Ruether made Sep 29 at 2017 5:13 PM

SFC Jim Ruether — Fri, 29 Sep 2017 17:13:02 -0400

You are probably right. I met a poser and he was in the Army uniform and the rank of a CSM. I wasn't about to question his authenticity until I saw him wearing his beret with pilot style sunglasses and a toothpick in his mouth. Never saw a CSM walking around chewing on a toothpick.....it's out of uniform my CSM would say, like chewing gum. Then I saw his patches and ribbons. Not a bad job but definitely not in the right places and a mix of branches. He was found out and is serving time for defrauding the family of a KIA at his funeral no less.

Response by SPC Joseph F Dolloff made Sep 29 at 2017 5:48 PM

SPC Joseph F Dolloff — Fri, 29 Sep 2017 17:48:03 -0400

In the words of Steven Segall...."Hey, I'm just a cook!" I guess just doesn't cut it. LOL!

Response by LTC William Sailers made Sep 30 at 2017 2:15 AM

LTC William Sailers — Sat, 30 Sep 2017 02:15:49 -0400

Posers look for attention and have to have some "story" that "justifies" another badge, tab, or medal/ribbon on their uniform. It looks like they went to the PX (but really some surplus or online store) and got one of everything because it looked cool and they never bothered to see if it was on the uniform in the right place. My uncle had a new Private who went to Reserve Summer Camp and showed up in his class Bs with all kinds stuff on his uniform. My Uncle stopped him on the way to formation and asked "hey, that's pretty nice. Where did you get all that stuff?" His reply - "Chief (CW4), I was at the PX and they had all this stuff so I got one of everything.) My uncle suggested he go back in the barracks and strip everything off before formation and he had about 5 minutes!

But, at Fort Hood in 1977, I met a Chaplain who had a huge rack of medals with devices, unit citations, and 3 countries of jump wings plus a Ranger tab and CIB. Never saw a Chaplain with all those things, so I inquired since Chaplains are unarmed. His response - " God doesn't say that I have to die while I do my job so I do what I have to do."

Response by Lee Beswick made Oct 2 at 2017 6:31 PM

Lee Beswick — Mon, 02 Oct 2017 18:31:30 -0400

Because they all want people to think they're badasses. They want others to be impressed by them. They all want to be operators ..... until it's time to actually operate.

Response by Maj Dale Smith made Oct 6 at 2017 4:08 PM

Maj Dale Smith — Fri, 06 Oct 2017 16:08:41 -0400

Nope, I think you pretty much nailed it. Women, or civilians in general, don't find near the romance in finding out that as an E-5, you were greasing vehicles for half the wage of a civilian counterpart who may not have any ethics or moral code. As a pilot, I always threw the credit of success to my crew chiefs, avionics/fuels/and maintenance crews, because without them doing their jobs, I couldn't do mine. Much the same way a film star just parrots lines but gets an acadamy award, and the writers, directors, sound crew, lighting crew, prop builders, janitors and food cart people are not mentioned. If you look at the credits at the end of a movie, the are the 12 font names that blink accross the screen in about 3 seconds. Statistically, fewer than 20% of ground troops will actually be involved in combat (fire fights and actual bullets flying back and forth). This does not demean anyone's job in the military. Take a look at a turbo-hydromatic (automatic) transmission. Re-assemble it and leave out one BB size check valve ball, and see how well it works. The planitary was built correctly, but forget something as "menial" as a check ball or "O" ring, and the entire system either doesn't work, or fails. This is where every component in your Brigade has a mission, and you are all pulling together to accomplish this. Civilians that understand teamwork would also understand how important a cook or a radioman is to the success of the mission.

Response by MSG Richard Cooper, PMP, SIPM, CMAS made Oct 17 at 2017 7:07 PM

MSG Richard Cooper, PMP, SIPM, CMAS — Tue, 17 Oct 2017 19:07:40 -0400

I will tell you a no bull story, day 2 on Normandy Beach, my uncle was a cook. He off loads and setsbuo on the beach near a berm and gets guys hot food and coffee as bullets fly. He didn't need to make up anything.

Response by Chris Smith made Oct 21 at 2017 11:19 AM

Chris Smith — Sat, 21 Oct 2017 11:19:12 -0400

I think it’s because those people who have actually known and fought alongside real heroes don’t have a pathological need to be seen as heroes. They know where the real heroes are buried.

Then there are those who feel so small within themselves for having done nothing that the only way they can bear to show themselves in public is to steal a hero’s valor, and play act the part. They are the ones who get called out - deservedly so - and shamed for claiming that which is not their right to claim.

Then there’s a whole lot of people like me (Vietnam era), who did not serve for any number of reasons - reasons for which in my case, anyway, I’m not particularly proud of - but they have spent the rest of their lives trying to make it up to those who had the courage and discipline to go in our places. I also understand because I’ve been told by friends who did go in my place, that I don’t need to carry that guilt; but I do carry it, and I have tried to atone for it by being the best friend and supporter I know how to be to those who went in my place. That friendship takes lots of forms. Sometimes, it is just being a quiet and an uncritical ear. Sometimes it means encouraging someone to unburden themselves. Sometimes it involves some minor act of generosity on my part to a stranger who is a veteran. Sometimes it involves buying meals for those in uniforms. It ALWAYS means voting in such a way that those who serve will get the funding they need to have the best training and equipment possible, but ALSO voting in such a way that they will not be placed in harm’s way without some very solid reasons for it. And, being myself a religious person, it involves frequent prayer for their continued safety, for their courage in the face of the unspeakable, for the preservation of their honor, and for an easy transition back into civilian life when their life of service is over.

It’s a sad thing that life does not deal us many second chances. I was politically and socially confused and was very much afraid when it was my turn to serve. In the 2nd year of the lottery, I came up with a 339, and I breathed a sigh of relief and did not march myself down to the recruiting office to enlist. As a combat Marine, my dad was one of the 10 survivors of E/2/9 in Cushman’s Pocket on Iwo Jima, and by the time I reached draft age, I had heard enough about the horrors of war to not want any part of it; and that fear overcame any sense of duty I might have had at the time. He and my mother both became university professors in their post war careers, and I was raised in the environment of academia (AKA the indoctrination industry), which was not particularly sympathetic to military traditions. I just turned 65 years old a week ago. If I were 18 or 19 again today, I would kick myself in the ass and make myself go down there and sign on the dotted line, fear or no fear. I realize that, from the safety of my current age, that’s a cheap and easy thing to say. But I mean it. I’ve spent my entire adult life envious of the men who payed their dues and took their chances. It would be worth an enlistment to me to not feel that way today, 47 years later. I have never once been disrespected by a veteran for the choices I made back then, but I find that I have a much harder time looking them straight in the eyes, than they have looking into mine.

So I wouldn’t DARE put on a uniform I had not earned the right to wear, and I sure as hell would not wear a medal I had not earned. My dad’s Purple Heart sits in the drawer of a display table in our living room. Once in a while, I’ll show it to somebody. I have other mementos of his time in service, but they are simply things that I keep to honor his memory (we lost him to cancer in 1990).

I don’t know if I have the same right to despise stolen valor when I see it with the same level of disdain as someone has who has EARNED that right, but I surely do feel that way. But it is also mixed with a certain amount of pity for what small men they must be in their own minds, that they feel the need to do this thing which so dishonors themselves.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 22 at 2017 11:01 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 22 Oct 2017 23:01:52 -0400

It's hard to be a super fly seal and force recon while in the 82nd infantry man. You wouldn't even believe how hard core Steven Seagall and I roll.

Response by PO2 Hank Kaczmarek made Oct 23 at 2017 2:43 AM

PO2 Hank Kaczmarek — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 02:43:11 -0400

I'm honest, and it disappoints some. I lied about my heart murmur when I enlisted. They missed it on my enlistment PE. I fainted in the Galley after about 5 days with only a few hours sleep each day---and they found it. I went to the 0-6 in Cardiology and the told me I could go home if I wanted b/c I had a Heart Murmur. I begged him to let me stay. He did.
I took the swim test for SEAL in Norfolk. I Passed. I failed the PE b/c of my Heart Murmur.
I didn't get a GCM on my 1st Enlistment B/C a supervisor marked me 2.8 on an Eval. I got busted a week after I finally got one on my 2nd Enlistment.
I'm not a Vietnam Era Vet---NDSM's were done in May of 1975. Found out when I re-enlisted that they stamped the pre-printed Decorations page spot for NSDM with 01dec1975. (Using forms at the end of 75 left over from the Nam Period) Told the CPO in Personnel I didn't rate it. --- Turns out it's an Error in my Record. He got a NSDM Medal and ribbon out of a cabinet in the blue box and handed it to me---You RATE IT NOW. Sign here. So I Am, on my DD214, a Vietnam Era Vet. But had I not re-enlisted and rating only 3 decorations, I would have been discharged with 1, which nobody wanted to go through the hassle to change and I didn't earn.

Response by Cpl Bill Fleischauer made Oct 24 at 2017 11:54 AM

Cpl Bill Fleischauer — Tue, 24 Oct 2017 11:54:58 -0400

They're by nature not very creative (Hollywood?). However, we can be VERY creative in correcting their behavior.

Response by Jason K. made Oct 24 at 2017 1:20 PM

Jason K. — Tue, 24 Oct 2017 13:20:19 -0400

Probably because of the flair. It's definitely the pieces of flair. https://vimeo.com/102830089

Response by Sgt Diego Rodriguez made Oct 25 at 2017 9:23 AM

Sgt Diego Rodriguez — Wed, 25 Oct 2017 09:23:01 -0400

I'm just a former comm marine. I dunno why some people do stuff like this aside from trying to grab tail or other stuff.

Response by Sgt Harold Martinez made Oct 29 at 2017 2:42 PM

Sgt Harold Martinez — Sun, 29 Oct 2017 14:42:34 -0400

Its easy because those people embellish the facts more to create the drama. I wonder why they are not proud of what they did in the service. We need good mechanics, flight engineers, medics, cooks. Everyone knows that there would be no super soldiers, etc without support. I loved seeing that support when we called for naval gunfire, or arty, air support, medevacs, etc. You have to remember that some can take the limelight, I can admit it, but I thank god for all the support I received when I called for it. Especially those medevacs. So they should brag and show off about those areas. Not everyone can be heroes but some are unsung heroes.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 30 at 2017 1:09 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 30 Oct 2017 01:09:23 -0400

Here's how I see it: most of the 'posers' haven't conquered very much in life. They've tried the military in their younger days. And they were cooks, admin clerks, chaplain assistants, truck drivers, fuel handlers, etc... Not really glamorous jobs. Now as they're getting older in life they want to 'capture the cool guy experience / attitude'... they figure that EVERYONE will admire them for being an Army Ranger, SEAL, Joint Special Operational Forces Detachment -Delta trooper, US Army Green Beret, Air Force Para Rescue Jumper, etc... and they go to every Army-Navy Surplus store within 100 miles of their home, and they start building their dress uniform. And every time they can purchase an additional 'Tab' to go above a unit's patch, they purchase it. The one thing that they fail in, is that they don't bother downloading the service regulations on wearing of uniforms. Hence the over-the-top medal stacks. Some of these posers wear them into bars to score a few free drinks, or pick up a woman for the night; while others use it to scam unsuspecting businesses and civilians of gobs of money. And then WE bump into them.

Response by SSG James Behnke made Oct 30 at 2017 7:07 AM

SSG James Behnke — Mon, 30 Oct 2017 07:07:14 -0400

Because no-one wants to be a fake 88M Specialist who failed his PT Test and shot marksman... People want to both emulate and impersonate the best!

Response by SFC Robert Dimitroff made Oct 30 at 2017 8:24 PM

SFC Robert Dimitroff — Mon, 30 Oct 2017 20:24:08 -0400

Because they want to be high speed and low drag. Not realizing those are elite special operations unit and the criteria it takes to become one. So naturally those who have and still serve can pick them out like an elephant in a bikini.

Response by MSgt James "Buck" Buchanan made Oct 30 at 2017 10:41 PM

MSgt James "Buck" Buchanan — Mon, 30 Oct 2017 22:41:51 -0400

Delusions of grandeur.

Response by SSgt Jim Gilmore made Nov 1 at 2017 10:16 PM

SSgt Jim Gilmore — Wed, 01 Nov 2017 22:16:08 -0400

What I see on the guy on the right is the fact he is not even old enough for one of the ribbons he is wearing. The RVN PUC was only awarded in the mid 50s - 1954 specifically, for Indochina advisors. From Wiki-

U.S. recipients[edit]
State of Vietnam Friendship Ribbon:
Military Assistance Advisory Group, Indochina[8]
Citation: During the months of August and September 1954, the members of the Military Assistance Advisory Group assisted to freedom from the terrors of Communist rule in their own territory of North and Central Vietnam, hundreds of thousands of men, women, and children. Thanks to the efficient and humanitarian assistance of the members of Military Assistance Advisory Group these refugees have been given an opportunity to start their lives anew in the free territories of Viet-Nam. The free people of Viet-Nam express their heartfelt gratitude for this unselfish manifestation of friendship and support.[4]
Task Force 90[9][10]

Response by SPC Curt Brockway made Nov 2 at 2017 6:54 PM

SPC Curt Brockway — Thu, 02 Nov 2017 18:54:17 -0400

In my opinion they always want to be what they could never be

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 6 at 2017 1:08 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 06 Nov 2017 13:08:37 -0500

I think your explanation is pretty good as it is. The only thing I would add is that these morons are usually Walter Mitty types who play out their fantasies in a uniform loaded with ribbons, badges and medals that they play with in their closets... then they dress up and play soldier. You know... some people play with matches in the closet... these idiots play with medals and ribbons they buy at the surplus store.
One of the most interesting cases I ran into was a guy who had actually served and apparently had reached the rank of Major. However, to hear him tell his story, he had graduated from West Point, he'd been a SEAL (although he had an Army ID) AND he had retired as a Major General (no less). The universe of Major generals is not big, with most of them serving as state TAGs, so perhaps that wasn't a good choice of "ranK". In any case, a quick check eliminated the "general officer" option. Another check with West Point's AOG zapped the USMA graduation story. So I just decided to laugh about the SEAL portion of this person's "experience".
I guess that the best way to think about people like this is to think of them as pathetic clowns. As someone else mentioned, most veterans don't go about in full dress regalia with ribbons, medals and other miscellaneous badges and what-nots dangling from their chests. There is no need. These impersonators are just poor, insecure fools that try to bolster their miserable self-image by pretending they are something they are not... and hoping that they get "admired" for their fake representation. It's ridiculous.

Response by LCpl Timothy Conner made Nov 6 at 2017 3:26 PM

LCpl Timothy Conner — Mon, 06 Nov 2017 15:26:43 -0500

I assume it is because they think it will make them impressive to whoever they are talking with. I don't understand it myself but it is that person's choice to try and get recognition based on a fabricated lie, eventually they will find themselves backed into a corner with it and will look like a fool.

Response by SPC Roberto Figueroa made Nov 6 at 2017 3:51 PM

SPC Roberto Figueroa — Mon, 06 Nov 2017 15:51:34 -0500

Here's my opinion: These "posers" want to feel special and/or want to feel like they accomplished anything in their life. So they make up stories, being in whatever "Special" forces, Rangers, etc. I feel these are the "go-to" names because they are the ones that draw attention. To the individual who can't recognize the difference between military ranks or branches, they'll dig the story since they won't really know proper unit names. They won't know any inconsistencies. Those of us who can regurgitate regulations regarding wearing of the uniform have key insight and could probably call "B.S" when it looks like "B.S."
All in all, these "posers" just want to make themselves look good, even if it means "Stolen Valor". It's a sad reality, but it's sadder when these guys/girls do it for attention. (Damn attention whores!)

Response by PO1 Christine Pawley made Nov 8 at 2017 8:09 PM

PO1 Christine Pawley — Wed, 08 Nov 2017 20:09:04 -0500

1% of Americans join the military. Of that .25% go on to special forces. The news isn't going to report what the Machinst Mate did in the Navy or what the Cook did in the Army or the Supply Clerk in the Marines. So unless there is a military background in that family the only military these people know is what the news reports. So it's easy for them to look up Seals, Rangers, Green Berets, Delta Force and Divers. After all even Hollywood knows all about them. Why do research on the rest 75% of the 1% elite.

Response by PO1 Edward Hunnicutt made Nov 10 at 2017 11:51 AM

PO1 Edward Hunnicutt — Fri, 10 Nov 2017 11:51:02 -0500

The posers are cowards to begin with.. Unaccomplished, and live lies in other parts of their lives.. They want the greatest impact not knowing that they are more than likely to get caught But they are liars, creeps, and more than likely Democrats.

Response by SFC Scott Parkhurst made Nov 13 at 2017 2:39 AM

SFC Scott Parkhurst — Mon, 13 Nov 2017 02:39:18 -0500

Well if Hollywood hadn’t made a bunch of movies with high speed Soldiers and Marines (and others), in SF, and John Wayne Green Beret etc....then would there be all these poser’s? Think about it.....

Response by SGT Richard Moschetti made Nov 18 at 2017 11:39 AM

SGT Richard Moschetti — Sat, 18 Nov 2017 11:39:41 -0500

Too many WANNABES

Response by SFC Freddie Porter made Nov 18 at 2017 8:47 PM

SFC Freddie Porter — Sat, 18 Nov 2017 20:47:04 -0500

When the historical fiction writer publishes a book or, a Hollywood movie or TV show is aired, who do they portray? The loggie getting the gear out there, the POL guys trying to keep the vehicles moving (except the Red Ball Express), the signals guys getting the commo up and keeping the SOIs current? Nope. They project the image of the military that are combat arms guys, the Special Operators. Even the intel analyst is projected as picking up a weapon and going into the red zone to kill or capture the bad guy. So, is there any wonder why a posser wears a special operators uniform? These guys are missing something in their lives they try to find by being the guy that was there who did it all. They become the special operators, not the supply sergeant. The guys you hear about the most and who receive the press are the guys with the awards for valor; the “Medal”, the DSC and the Silver and Bronze Star. Even the Purple Heart is an award with great honor (although a guy or gal was relaxing in their hutch when a smalls arms attack started and they were injured). This seems to be an insight on one order. Of course there are the skirt chasers and the scam artists. That’s another discussion.

But, consider this also please. Once upon a time a group of soldiers was put together and were called Special Forces. Than movies were made about them and books were written. The military establishment though did everything they could to prevent Special Forces from every existing; it took the direct intervention from the CiC to allow them to wear their headgear. A private company calls themselves “Triple Canopy”. It seems there is more glory in being one of them even in the military and they are called Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC). Once upon a time being airborne was elite and being a Ranger was elite as well as being a SEAL. Now they are super duper elite personnel called “Special”. So, is there a correlation between a poser and putting on the name of those who have gone before you in the Special Forces community. I wonder.

Response by CPT Robert Boshears made Nov 23 at 2017 12:36 PM

CPT Robert Boshears — Thu, 23 Nov 2017 12:36:08 -0500

Movies make the hero’s. I saw a real SF E-7 (combat patch flash and CIB). It was on a military base... I just told him good job. He asked me ifI was SF? Nooooo, I was a leg. He laughed and said humbly we’re all legs.

Response by SPC Donn Sinclair made Nov 26 at 2017 8:15 AM

SPC Donn Sinclair — Sun, 26 Nov 2017 08:15:56 -0500

You answered your own question, Eric. Wear a class A uni with a National Defense ribbon and tell people you were a clerk/typist or water purification specialist and the response might be, "That's nice." But fill your chest with every ribbon and badge Medal of America sells, then regale anyone who'll listen with stories of your days as a fill-in-the-blank operator, and you just might be Grand Marshall at the next small town Veteran's Day parade. Not right, but it's happened.

Response by SSG Steven Lemon made Nov 30 at 2017 4:47 PM

SSG Steven Lemon — Thu, 30 Nov 2017 16:47:05 -0500

One reason people volunteer for the special services is for the rush they get from being part of an elite force. There is a special feeling when you are out front, whether it is by rank, job description or unit designation.
There is nothing wrong with that.
The only problem I see is when cooks, truck drivers, clerks, etc don't think they themselves are worthy of high respect.
People need to realize that even the lowest pay grade or job description is an integral part of the well oiled machine known as the United States military.
It used to take about 14 rear personnel to maintain one forward infantryman, and if any one of those support persons did not do his or her job, that guy up front would find himself in a mell of a hess.

Response by SFC Greg Bruorton made Nov 30 at 2017 5:38 PM

SFC Greg Bruorton — Thu, 30 Nov 2017 17:38:01 -0500

Pathetic, is all I can say! These wannabees have no life except to impersonate our true patriots and soldiers. If there isn't a law against such, there should be.

Response by SN Earl Robinson made Dec 1 at 2017 9:09 AM

SN Earl Robinson — Fri, 01 Dec 2017 09:09:34 -0500

Because they are wannabe losers who were to lazy or cowardly to serve but want the glory and attention.

Response by LTJG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 1 at 2017 9:15 AM

LTJG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 01 Dec 2017 09:15:21 -0500

When i hear SEAL, SpecOps, Ranger, etc I think about those being the most prestigious parts of the military (and maybe the hardest to achieve). Maybe they seem to think that impersonating these individuals will give them more credit from civilians and military alike. You dont really see someone impersonating an E2 Hull-technician with online 1 or 2 ribbons. You see someone impersonate an E9 with 10 rows of ribbons or an O6 with the same amount of ribbons.

Response by SPC William Szkromiuk made Dec 1 at 2017 5:34 PM

SPC William Szkromiuk — Fri, 01 Dec 2017 17:34:46 -0500

Because us Signal Corps types take imposters more seriously?
:-)

Response by CSM Jim Corrin made Dec 2 at 2017 11:47 AM

CSM Jim Corrin — Sat, 02 Dec 2017 11:47:35 -0500

You're on target "Top"....

Response by CPO Mark Robinson made Dec 4 at 2017 9:18 PM

CPO Mark Robinson — Mon, 04 Dec 2017 21:18:20 -0500

So what did you do in the Navy? I was a Machinist Mate. I painted everything in the Engine Room a couple times over, scrubbed bilges, swabbed decks, for three months I peeled potatoes and washed pots and pans. On rare occasions I got to fix things and do the cool stuff my recruiter said I would do, but that didn't happen very often. I guess that story wouldn't impress people too much. Probably wouldn't even score me a date with the bar tramp at the local dive. By the way, there were numerous MMs that were awarded the Medal of Honor for keeping the turbines turning and the power on during combat. And no they weren't Navy Seals.

Response by SFC Mark Klaers made Dec 6 at 2017 2:25 PM

SFC Mark Klaers — Wed, 06 Dec 2017 14:25:54 -0500

I've met people who have served and claim to be all that. My guess is that so many upon separation wish they had done something different. Something more impressive that they hadn't the courage or drive when they were in.

Response by SGT David Earman made Dec 7 at 2017 2:46 PM

SGT David Earman — Thu, 07 Dec 2017 14:46:51 -0500

I totally agree! I’ve never met an Army cook, but I’ve run into lots of Rangers and SF. I was an artillery surveyor... and I wasn’t ashamed of my MOS. I am more than happy to tell people what exactly my job was instead of making something up that I wasn’t and don’t really know anything about other than what Hollywood puts out.

Response by SFC Charles Helms made Dec 7 at 2017 6:53 PM

SFC Charles Helms — Thu, 07 Dec 2017 18:53:23 -0500

While assigned to an ROTC department a group of us went to a local Subway. Course we were in class A’s. When I as SFC went to check out the girl asked me if I had killed people. My response was “today.”?

Response by LTC David Stark made Dec 8 at 2017 12:22 AM

LTC David Stark — Fri, 08 Dec 2017 00:22:38 -0500

Because claiming to be a member of an elite unit, like the Seals, Green Berets, etc, makes them appear to be some kinda special badass, and that makes them feel big. Also, since few Americans actually have been in one of these elite units, or know someone in one of those units, it is easier for them to pull the wool over the eyes of the uninformed.

Response by SPC Michael Dillon made Dec 17 at 2017 12:35 PM

SPC Michael Dillon — Sun, 17 Dec 2017 12:35:57 -0500

https://nypost.com/2017/12/15/one-obvious-detail-revealed-this-green-beret-was-a-total-fraud/

The dead giveaway that exposed this ‘Green Beret’ as a fraud

For real Green Berets, there was one dead giveaway that Brooklyn Army vet Papotia Reginald “Reggie” Wright was an imposter. His beret was black. “We took one look at that and knew he was messed up…

Response by LTC Robert Johnson made Dec 24 at 2017 11:35 AM

LTC Robert Johnson — Sun, 24 Dec 2017 11:35:57 -0500

Usually I have found that it's an individual wanting to be something more than they really are. And their lies usually escalate. When I have met a vet who was a cook, infantryman, supply, truck driver or mechanic, it is usually a very pleasant conversation on common things we experienced. When you meet the SF, Seal, Ranger, Delta....they want to impress you....the fake ones anyway. I've known quite a few of those elite vets who are very humble....and they were the real deal.

Response by CH (CPT) Ephraim Travis made Dec 26 at 2017 10:35 AM

CH (CPT) Ephraim Travis — Tue, 26 Dec 2017 10:35:08 -0500

They do it because they lack self-esteem and for those who served but inflate their service, it's not any different.

Truth be told, I've been accused of Stolen Valor on several occasions. My response when confronted in person, "Do you really think I'd concoct being a Jewish Chaplain just to be cool?"

Response by SGT Fredrick Ramm made Dec 28 at 2017 4:45 PM

SGT Fredrick Ramm — Thu, 28 Dec 2017 16:45:27 -0500

Basically, I always say: "I did a crazy thing, because it was 1969 and I didn't want to be drafted in The Marines (I was not Marine Corp Material) , instead I went 3 year RA "Tanker" 11E, Did The Elvis Tour in West Germany, became, kind of a Staff Weenie for a Armored Battalion (if you called The 1/35 in the night between 1971 to 1972, that was usually me answering the phone about 3 times a week)...I had more in common with a Desk Sergeant at a South Bronx Police Precinct...dealing with, awols, bad attitudes, drug problems; and that's why, I never became a cop...not that good in dealing with that stuff, but I loved it, working in Battalion Headquarters, plus the chance to work with some great people, Namely: CSM Edward Lennon.

Response by Cpl Bob Cloninger made Dec 29 at 2017 5:12 PM

Cpl Bob Cloninger — Fri, 29 Dec 2017 17:12:05 -0500

Because computer techs and water survival instructors get no love.

Response by Sgt Lester Mount made Dec 30 at 2017 8:18 AM

Sgt Lester Mount — Sat, 30 Dec 2017 08:18:46 -0500

It is easy to expose them even if they do not dress like these two morons. A couple of simple questions and you know.

Response by PO1 Larry Eavenson made Dec 30 at 2017 9:52 AM

PO1 Larry Eavenson — Sat, 30 Dec 2017 09:52:05 -0500

People feel impressed when they talk to a combat Veteran. It makes the imposter feel like a big shot.

Response by SSgt Thomas Hirschey made Dec 30 at 2017 4:26 PM

SSgt Thomas Hirschey — Sat, 30 Dec 2017 16:26:08 -0500

Because it makes them sound like a badass

Response by Sgt Frank Staples made Jan 3 at 2018 6:55 PM

Sgt Frank Staples — Wed, 03 Jan 2018 18:55:23 -0500

The military always needs plain old grunts to back up the ones who see the action. I was a weather weenie and never saw combat...but I did close the runways at Seymour Johnson AFB one day due to bad weather and had to explain to the base commander why I did it!!

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 4 at 2018 4:03 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 04 Jan 2018 16:03:19 -0500

When I go to the VA..I hear the same thing.. every Marine in 'Nam was a Scout Sniper every Army was Airborne Range...(SF was not really as popular as today).. I am always like holy crap. There were no Truck drivers, cooks or mechanics.. differance WWII guys..I was. Pvt. on a beach..nothing special ..

Response by TSgt James Carson made Jan 5 at 2018 5:58 PM

TSgt James Carson — Fri, 05 Jan 2018 17:58:59 -0500

It's simple. they are the people the news media chases around. The movies are made of them, as well as the lion's share of the praise. Those of us who actually keep these guys in great operable equipment, repair their screw ups, and work in godly hours to help them return safely aren't noted at all. That's fine too. We won't get the praise, but we do allot behind the curtains. Our jobs don't draw the crowds to join up.

Response by LCpl Donald Faucett made Jan 7 at 2018 12:32 PM

LCpl Donald Faucett — Sun, 07 Jan 2018 12:32:23 -0500

Inferiority disorder. The may feel boost from attention, or have something short of recognition.

Response by LCpl Donald Faucett made Jan 7 at 2018 12:36 PM

LCpl Donald Faucett — Sun, 07 Jan 2018 12:36:37 -0500

Lol ohhhh you must have been a Colonel of the Urnals

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 7 at 2018 5:12 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 07 Jan 2018 17:12:26 -0500

Proud to be a Chairborne Granger. All the sex without the danger.

Response by TSgt Michael Williamson made Jan 10 at 2018 3:11 PM

TSgt Michael Williamson — Wed, 10 Jan 2018 15:11:10 -0500

What's even more hilarious is when they try to do it around military personnel. My ex (married at the time) enlisted at 35. I visited while she was at AIT. She introduces me to some troops, and it's established I'm former active duty AF, Army and Air Guard, currently serving.

So some other recruit's husband has to tell me how he was a Ranger, and that meant he got to carry whatever weapon he wanted, etc, etc. While I smile and nod.

He was totally clueless that I not only knew everything he was saying was BS, but had heard it all before. I guess because the SPC's husband was a vet, then the PFC's husband had to be a vet, too. And a "better" vet.

~~~

BTW, if you meet these people repeatedly, you'll find they magically promote. I met one guy who was a "major" in SF but "hadn't updated his ID card," which was some "veteran brotherhood" card that looked a lot like a pink reserve ID card but wasn't, which said he was a captain.

The next time we met he was an LTC. Also, he was a qualified helicopter pilot but was now subject to shakes and couldn't fly. He held up a shaking hand to prove this. Also, he was a qualified Minuteman missile launch officer (in the Army) because of the secret facility we have in the ice in Antarctica (to shoot at Australia?).

The next time (a year later), he was a colonel. Now, this is the late 90s relative peacetime. And he claimed a Silver Star and DSC from the Gulf War, and he'd been "offered the Medal but turned it down because I didn't think my service was worthy enough" (oh, of course).

The sad thing was he actually did know tactics and strategy, and spoke excellent Japanese, Russian and Arabic. Had he actually put his effort into being real rather than fake he might have actually been something.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 19 at 2018 4:34 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 19 Mar 2018 04:34:57 -0400

Glory sales, and we did take care of our, Spoons, Wrench Monkeys, and they were all Airborne, even the MPs were with us, as well as our very brave Chaplain.

Response by Maj John Bell made Mar 19 at 2018 4:43 AM

Maj John Bell — Mon, 19 Mar 2018 04:43:48 -0400

Because, "During the great war I shoveled $#!* in Louisiana" doesn't get the pretty girl to dance with you.

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made Mar 19 at 2018 7:31 AM

SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth — Mon, 19 Mar 2018 07:31:07 -0400

Sounds more prestigious.

Response by MSG Jay Jackson made Mar 19 at 2018 12:50 PM

MSG Jay Jackson — Mon, 19 Mar 2018 12:50:59 -0400

I am proud of all my fellow mechanics out there who serve and work off the numerous PMCS forms that are submitted every week! And yes some mechanics actually see some action. I know several mechanics with PHs. During my MITT tour in 07-08 we even had a spoon as a gunner and a generator mechanic as a driver . Both were temporary replacements after we lost two team members during an ambush. So even if your CSS you might get put in harms way. As for the fakes, I say point them out when you find them.

Response by Cpl John Barker made Mar 19 at 2018 2:46 PM

Cpl John Barker — Mon, 19 Mar 2018 14:46:49 -0400

Because nobody wants to fuck a POG; more shocking news at 11

Response by Sgt Douglas Berger made May 15 at 2018 2:44 AM

Sgt Douglas Berger — Tue, 15 May 2018 02:44:44 -0400

2000 there was an estimated 1.0 mill Veterans who served "in" Vietnam still alive but the census showed over 13.0 million said they served in Vietnam. There was only 9.2 million who served during the Vietnam Era _ 2.7 million served in country. It was estimated by 2015 the high majority of those who served in country would be dead.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made May 24 at 2018 6:08 PM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 24 May 2018 18:08:07 -0400

Mostly because their knowledge of the armed services comes from Hollywood (movies), and Hollywood seldom makes a movie about a cook, supply clerk, mechanic, and etc.

Response by MSG Danny Mathers made May 24 at 2018 6:40 PM

MSG Danny Mathers — Thu, 24 May 2018 18:40:30 -0400

Good question! Why, I don't know and don't care. Not all posers make these claims. Some are not as stupid and just want people think they served. Others are the extreme examples that I believe are doing it for reasons only they know. Every now and then I see one at Walmart and just laugh them down; thats it. The Poser Partols will handle them.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 27 at 2018 5:16 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 27 May 2018 17:16:44 -0400

Cuz they're losers thirsty for attention who have nothing better to do than to portray themselves as something they're not because of the overwhelming feeling of inadequacies they have about their lives that hasn't went anywhere positive...just my guess...

Response by SGT Mark Rhodes made Jun 30 at 2018 7:17 AM

SGT Mark Rhodes — Sat, 30 Jun 2018 07:17:00 -0400

It makes them feel like a badass. If you’re going to be a poser you might as well pose the best. Lol. Losers who could not even get in the Military

Response by SPC Russ Bolton made Jul 21 at 2018 1:41 PM

SPC Russ Bolton — Sat, 21 Jul 2018 13:41:48 -0400

I was a airborne truck driver that always jumped in and out of my hemitt everyday. I deserve a purple heart and some airborne wings for jumping in and out of my equipment.... Please don't laugh to hard. It took me almost three seconds to become a hero only in my own mind. These posers are getting by with it

Response by SPC Frank Garcia made Aug 28 at 2018 4:28 PM

SPC Frank Garcia — Tue, 28 Aug 2018 16:28:26 -0400

hope the mustache is real!

Response by SrA Larry Ingram made Sep 14 at 2018 12:40 PM

SrA Larry Ingram — Fri, 14 Sep 2018 12:40:03 -0400

Why you ask? Because they are wimps that only wish they had served and they need something to make them feel good about themselves that’s why

Response by Pvt Robert L. Lamoreaux made Nov 27 at 2018 4:45 PM

Pvt Robert L. Lamoreaux — Tue, 27 Nov 2018 16:45:25 -0500

I usually just ask those who REALLY piss me off what their MOS was. Many, many of the "imposters" simply believe they are insignificant without "glory" stories or images. In a way, I feel sorry for them.

Response by SPC Ken Zehner made Nov 29 at 2018 11:09 AM

SPC Ken Zehner — Thu, 29 Nov 2018 11:09:57 -0500

I would guess that by claiming to be SF, if asked about too many details, they can claim they are classified. Sad thing about the internet is, they can Google enough info to sound believable to people who don't know better.

Response by SFC Tim Burke made Nov 29 at 2018 6:24 PM

SFC Tim Burke — Thu, 29 Nov 2018 18:24:16 -0500

As another commenter stated,’there no glory in the beans and bullet pushing business. No movies made about cooks or drivers so the idiots don’t realize they are just as important in their own way.

Response by SrA John Monette made Nov 29 at 2018 6:31 PM

SrA John Monette — Thu, 29 Nov 2018 18:31:28 -0500

PFC Eric Minchey I don't always use the same story. I like to keep people on their toes. sometimes, i'll use 13 (my lucky number) stories in one day!!! just kidding. all those wannabes want to be the biggest braggart around. that is why green berets, seals, rangers, air force security police draw the biggest posers. nobody wants to be a human resources specialist or an aircraft mechanic

Response by MAJ Scott Walton made Nov 30 at 2018 4:00 PM

MAJ Scott Walton — Fri, 30 Nov 2018 16:00:04 -0500

Just the action of service to the nation is something we should all be proud of. The vast majority of us who have served understand this. However there is a small segment of the veteran community who feel their service as a “Wheeled Vehicle Mechanic”, or “P.O.L. Clerk” wasn’t sufficient. Those people join the small group of civilians who want to live some glamorous Hollywood ideal of being a Warfighter.
Those pathetic individuals seem to think that living a lie based on false exploits will gain them fame and adoration. But I’m sure you notice that these “wannabe” soldiers never come around real soldiers, sailors, marines, and airmen with their false yarns of night operations in Da Nang, or Fallujah.
The best way we can keep the Stolen Valor losers from ruining our good name is to always keep the faith. Continue to be to fine Americans that served our nation with pride and distinction. Let our example be the one that sticks in the minds of America. Once people see true Veterans who show pride in our service without a need to be boastful, then the glory seeking fakes will be seen for what they are.

BTW: I’ve never met anyone who’s had to take lives in combat who happily discusses it with civilians. And anyone who claims to be special operations and just volunteers information instantly like; “I’m a Navy Seal” or “I’m Army Special Forces” without a need for disclosure is most likely lying.
Even in my own personal disclosures I have never hidden that I’m a retired Army Aviation Officer. But rarely if ever do I disclose much more.

Response by SSgt Jim Rhoades made Dec 1 at 2018 5:40 PM

SSgt Jim Rhoades — Sat, 01 Dec 2018 17:40:18 -0500

It could be that Ranger, SF , PJ , make all the ribbons and badges more believable

Response by SFC William Huse made Dec 1 at 2018 7:49 PM

SFC William Huse — Sat, 01 Dec 2018 19:49:21 -0500

Well, I remember when me and Chuck Norris were delta force buddies. We road our full dressed Harley's equipped with two mini guns and a rocket launcher. But I rarely talk about it, trying times.

Response by MSG Chris Clanton made Dec 3 at 2018 10:56 AM

MSG Chris Clanton — Mon, 03 Dec 2018 10:56:33 -0500

Be All You Can Be.....

Response by SN Brady Byrum made Dec 3 at 2018 4:11 PM

SN Brady Byrum — Mon, 03 Dec 2018 16:11:38 -0500

To be able to wear Purple Hearts, Bronze Stars, Silver Crosses, for example, those have to come with some kind of combat story, and most cooks and personnel records clerks aren't hardly ever on the front lines of combat to have a story to back it up. They're doing it for the false admiration and self-aggrandizement they get out of claiming to be something they're not. I tell people all the time, my Navy service was during Reagan's administration and it was all peace time. We traveled around doing humanitarian work in ports, almost like the Peace Corps. It was work, but fun. But we were ready with that blank check, had it needed to be cashed.

Response by CPL Tim Wolfe made Dec 3 at 2018 5:34 PM

CPL Tim Wolfe — Mon, 03 Dec 2018 17:34:07 -0500

I was ASA 72-75 and still can’t discuss much of what I did. I sure as heck don’t go out of my way to tell anyone unless pressed. Then I say still classified. Unless someone is bee essing with buds most never exaggerate their experiences.

Response by Cpl Clifford Hager made Dec 4 at 2018 4:33 AM

Cpl Clifford Hager — Tue, 04 Dec 2018 04:33:47 -0500

I just tell people I was with the engineers and saw very little combat. Just swept roads for mines, drew maps, bridges and gun emplacements, blew things up now and then and my worst combat wounds were cutting my thumb on a c-rat lid and gashing my thigh rolling out concertina.

Oh, wait! That actually IS what I did!

Response by SGT William Swartzbaugh made Dec 4 at 2018 12:18 PM

SGT William Swartzbaugh — Tue, 04 Dec 2018 12:18:44 -0500

I start talking to them using common operational/unit shorthand and slang, then watch their eyes glaze over as they have no idea what I am saying.

Response by CMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 4 at 2018 12:27 PM

CMSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 04 Dec 2018 12:27:54 -0500

I agree with you. If someone put on a Army PFC or a Marine LCpl’s Uni with National Defence and GWOT Service and say that they did their 3 or 4 and got out, no one would bat an eyelash. The problem is that they go overboard and put way too much stuff on. Do a little research. Fortunately for us, it makes it all too easy to call them out. If Stolen Valor is illegal in your state, you can also send the police after them...

Response by SSgt Rick Scharnberg made Dec 4 at 2018 5:28 PM

SSgt Rick Scharnberg — Tue, 04 Dec 2018 17:28:46 -0500

I was a 42153 Powered AGE in the Air Force, and a 19D in the Army NG. My father in law that told everyone he was a General's Aid in the Navy. He worked in a CC camp during the Depression. Of course I would call him out on the story Everytime. I never served in combat and would never dishonor those that did. These fakes irritate me and I call them out Everytime I run into one.

Response by SPC Stan Bryars made Dec 4 at 2018 7:48 PM

SPC Stan Bryars — Tue, 04 Dec 2018 19:48:14 -0500

It's simple
Television and movies don't do stories about the exploits of cooks and mechanics.
And there are too many civilian cooks and mechanics who can question your story on technicality.

There are no civilian special forces SEAL high speed combat operators

Response by MSgt Eric Pitts made Dec 4 at 2018 11:10 PM

MSgt Eric Pitts — Tue, 04 Dec 2018 23:10:14 -0500

I am a 22 year retiree. I couldn’t stand up with the medals on their chest, 89through 2011,desert shield/storm/strike/thunder/fox, allied force, enduring freedom, i lost count. I could not keep up with these HEROES

Response by CPO Kenneth Laughman made Dec 4 at 2018 11:18 PM

CPO Kenneth Laughman — Tue, 04 Dec 2018 23:18:00 -0500

Brother, no I don't. All I can say is that I am proud to have been a Sailor, paper-pusher and all. No reason to not be proud, regardless of MOS/AFSC/Rate.

Response by SFC Leo Mares made Dec 4 at 2018 11:56 PM

SFC Leo Mares — Tue, 04 Dec 2018 23:56:02 -0500

I have encountered a few imposters. the reason they try to impress by telling they are SF, Seals,Rangers etc they think it will impress everyone with there knowledge but anyone that has been in rhe military knows a lot of things about the military that imposters. Do not know i.e unit designations,types of formations ect

Response by MAJ Bob Firth made Dec 5 at 2018 11:18 AM

MAJ Bob Firth — Wed, 05 Dec 2018 11:18:06 -0500

They look legit to me.

Response by SGT Jack Same made Dec 5 at 2018 12:08 PM

SGT Jack Same — Wed, 05 Dec 2018 12:08:13 -0500

I find it there are two distinct groups. The worst the ones who never wore the uniform. The second type find upon leaving felt they should’ve done more. Now they cant so they lie. As a veteran I feel sad for both. Just a E5 and that’s my story

Response by SSG Thomas Zimniak made Dec 5 at 2018 1:08 PM

SSG Thomas Zimniak — Wed, 05 Dec 2018 13:08:47 -0500

They want to make their life more exciting than it is. what a POS

Response by MSgt Scotty Phillips made Dec 5 at 2018 6:54 PM

MSgt Scotty Phillips — Wed, 05 Dec 2018 18:54:26 -0500

After retiring, I never knew we had some "Special Forces" guys in the military?

Response by SSG K Johnson made Dec 5 at 2018 6:57 PM

SSG K Johnson — Wed, 05 Dec 2018 18:57:24 -0500

The movies.

Response by Sgt Floyd Brown made Dec 5 at 2018 7:06 PM

Sgt Floyd Brown — Wed, 05 Dec 2018 19:06:09 -0500

These Posers seem to not understand that these Special Forces all have one thing in common.. If you were never a member you can not possibly give a believable account of your time in one of these units.. I spent close to 6 years in the Military.. One of those years in Vietnam and I still could not tell you with any degree of accuracy what any of these Special Forces did or what their mission consisted of..I can tell you all about being an AC Engine Mechanic.. But I be damned if I could come close to telling anyone what a Special Forces troop did..

Response by SFC William Sutherland III made Dec 6 at 2018 8:54 AM

SFC William Sutherland III — Thu, 06 Dec 2018 08:54:53 -0500

Go big or go home...and these people never can admit what they didn’t or couldn’t accomplish...

Response by SFC Casimir Vital made Dec 6 at 2018 9:51 AM

SFC Casimir Vital — Thu, 06 Dec 2018 09:51:08 -0500

They are highly self confidence issues. The less they think of themselves the bigger the story they make up about themselves.

Response by PFC John Butler made Dec 6 at 2018 3:37 PM

PFC John Butler — Thu, 06 Dec 2018 15:37:10 -0500

It's kind of like when people who claim to be reincarnated were always a prince or a countess or royalty. No one ever claims that in their past life they were a scullery maid or a stableboy who shoveled out the end product of digested horse feed.

Response by LtCol William Tehan made Dec 6 at 2018 3:51 PM

LtCol William Tehan — Thu, 06 Dec 2018 15:51:21 -0500

Look at the idiot on the left. You don’t wear miniature medals and service ribbons on the same uniform and the miniatures do not show the same awards as the ribbons. You do not wear U.S. basic Jump wings and Master Jump wings at the same time and you do not wear them on the right side, but the left either above or below the ribbons and very, very few, if any would qualify for both the Combat Infantry Badge and the Combat Medic Badge at the same time. As far as the miniature medals are concerned the Purple Heart is not senior to the Distinguished Service Cross and the Silver Star, nor the Legion of Merit and should have been worn to their left. Never met a SFC in 30 years of USMC service (37 monthes in combat), and an 24 years additional DoD civilian service (1 deployment to Afghanistan and 2 deployments to Iraq), that had been awarded the Legion of Merit, but I guess its possible. This guy is obviously a fake and should have been humiliated in publlc and forced to strip out of the uniform. As for the answer; they are losers, liars whose brains I would not urinate on even if they were on fire because I could not hit targets that small and it would be a waste of good urine. Other than that I have no strong feelings on the subject.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 15 at 2018 4:02 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 15 Dec 2018 16:02:51 -0500

I asked the same question. Why are they never E-1's or 2's in a crappy MOS. They only prove what assholes they are trying to be something they never earned.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 22 at 2018 2:39 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 22 Dec 2018 14:39:06 -0500

Most will embellish their military exploits because they could not make the grade. They couldn't pass the basic qualifications test, the physical training and the psychological exam. They are like the P.X. Heroes who buy their medals. It is quite sad that they cannot accept what they did in the service as being part of a bigger team effort.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2018 8:24 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 27 Dec 2018 20:24:03 -0500

At least this Veteran claimed to be crazy not lazy I am rather mad I tell you quite insane Veteran

Response by Brian Smith made Mar 23 at 2019 2:59 PM

Brian Smith — Sat, 23 Mar 2019 14:59:33 -0400

Maybe for the same reasons people claim to be someone famous in a past life. You'll hear people say bullshit like, "In my last life, I was Genghis Khan!"

Naw, dude; in your past life, you were that sad sack Mongol who collected dried horse manure on the steppes for the cooking fires.

Response by Sgt Keith Dollinger made Apr 22 at 2019 7:06 PM

Sgt Keith Dollinger — Mon, 22 Apr 2019 19:06:27 -0400

Nope, sounds about right. I will say that, given the massive amount of SEALS, Special Forces, Recon Marines, and other high speed, low drag, super troopers I met and heard about after 1991, you'd think that I was the only Tanker in the entire Marine Corps during that op...

A lot of the "stolen valor" individuals are working a scam, sure, but a lot more of them just seem to be looking for nothing more than applause. I never understood that pathological need for attention the bees who can't fly seem to want. At some level, you HAVE to know it's all a fraud. Call me naive, but that has to cheapen the acclaim to the point of worthlessness, and you must know that, if you're faking it...

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Jun 28 at 2019 6:39 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Fri, 28 Jun 2019 18:39:33 -0400

I did not know that Saddam is an us army officer.

Response by SSG Steve Mossman made Mar 16 at 2020 5:36 PM

SSG Steve Mossman — Mon, 16 Mar 2020 17:36:52 -0400

Need of self importance

Response by SP5 Larry Sheppard made Mar 16 at 2020 7:48 PM

SP5 Larry Sheppard — Mon, 16 Mar 2020 19:48:39 -0400

Some POS trying to be a zero hero

Response by SP5 Warren Hammond made Mar 17 at 2020 5:50 PM

SP5 Warren Hammond — Tue, 17 Mar 2020 17:50:54 -0400

If they posed as MP’s, they’d have to arrest themselves.

Response by 1st Lt Padre Dave Poedel made Mar 21 at 2020 9:04 PM

1st Lt Padre Dave Poedel — Sat, 21 Mar 2020 21:04:57 -0400

So sad.....

Response by CPT Jeffrey Goldfarb made Jul 14 at 2020 7:26 PM

CPT Jeffrey Goldfarb — Tue, 14 Jul 2020 19:26:04 -0400

Because when it came time to stand tall and suit up; these pussies stood by and watched the rest of us go do what had to be done.

Response by SPC Merle Jantz made Jul 15 at 2020 9:45 AM

SPC Merle Jantz — Wed, 15 Jul 2020 09:45:50 -0400

When I was a kid in the early 70s, our next-door neighbors moved in. The guy had just gotten out of the Navy, was a helicopter mechanic for a squadron that did a couple of Vietnam deployments. Not Rambo stuff, but something, and more than most people did. Over time, the story morphed to where he was a crew chief on the chopper, did some search and rescue missions ... by the time they moved away, almost 20 years later, he was talking about the several missions he did with the SEALs, including one where they liberated a POW camp and he received a (secret) Navy Cross that he's not allowed to wear because the mission is still classified.

Response by GySgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 15 at 2020 10:28 AM

GySgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 15 Jul 2020 10:28:17 -0400

It’s cool as a former Marine intel guy that we get periodic exposure on NCIS!

Response by SSG Kenneth Ponder made Jul 15 at 2020 12:52 PM

SSG Kenneth Ponder — Wed, 15 Jul 2020 12:52:50 -0400

Don't pay the clowns any attention!

Response by PO3 Patrick Hush made Jul 15 at 2020 2:00 PM

PO3 Patrick Hush — Wed, 15 Jul 2020 14:00:59 -0400

Ya, well I fixed shitters on an Ice Breaker....

Response by Bill Chesney made Jul 15 at 2020 2:21 PM

Bill Chesney — Wed, 15 Jul 2020 14:21:55 -0400

delusional people never imagine they are a cook, only something they identify as heroic or powerful.

Response by SPC Thom Whetston made Jul 15 at 2020 2:51 PM

SPC Thom Whetston — Wed, 15 Jul 2020 14:51:47 -0400

Never understood it. If a poser said they were an E4 clerk, who'd honestly care?

Response by FN Erikka Ingebretsen made Jul 15 at 2020 3:05 PM

FN Erikka Ingebretsen — Wed, 15 Jul 2020 15:05:37 -0400

MM3 Erikka Ingebretsen
I get asked if I ever saw naval gunfire. Yes I did and it destroyed a Volkswagen and. Ford Ranchero that belong to Chief and to a Warrant Officer who got permission to bring their cars with them when we changed home ports. I was a wrench turner, nothing glorious...but I am a veteran all the same.

Response by COL Bill Gross made Jul 15 at 2020 3:34 PM

COL Bill Gross — Wed, 15 Jul 2020 15:34:22 -0400

Wandering a bit. A few years ago, let's not quibble about how many, couple of us were sitting in a bar and struck up a conversation with a guy sitting next to. Subject came around to service in Vietnam. He rolled up his sleeve to reveal extensive burn scars. We asked what happened, expecting a real "no shit" story of valor. We got a tale of honesty. He said he was cook trying to light an immersion heater when it blew up. Probably one of the bar side stories about that war that had a total ring of truth.

Response by PO1 James French made Jul 15 at 2020 3:37 PM

PO1 James French — Wed, 15 Jul 2020 15:37:09 -0400

Use to haul SDV'S up and down the coast for SDVT-2 when I was stationed with them. Had a guy claim that he was a SEAL one time while pumping gas. He came up and saw us in tac ops gear and figured we were military, so he couldn't help himself. He started by saying he was a SEAL and was wondering what equipment we had under the black covers. If he was a SEAL, he would have known exactly what we were hauling! So, I told him "It is a septic tank for a top secret undersea laboratory they are putting in off the coast of China!" He believed the bullshit I was spewing! Little did he know that there was 3 Seals with us that started hammering him hard with basic questions like "What BUDs class did you graduated from?" and "What unit he was stationed with?" He failed miserably and almost got the shit kicked out of him if it weren't for where we were!

Response by 1LT Peter Duston made Jul 15 at 2020 5:31 PM

1LT Peter Duston — Wed, 15 Jul 2020 17:31:16 -0400

Met a few in my life, expose them by quizzing them and they mostly went away. I do know that it's unlawful to claim valor, medals and service.

Response by SPC Terry Williamson made Jul 15 at 2020 8:58 PM

SPC Terry Williamson — Wed, 15 Jul 2020 20:58:33 -0400

Who WOULDN'T want to be us ??? Imitation is supposed to be the highest form of flattery !!

Response by PV2 Thomas Carnes made Jul 15 at 2020 11:52 PM

PV2 Thomas Carnes — Wed, 15 Jul 2020 23:52:15 -0400

To answer the question, why they chose those.No 1 would belive if they said 64C transport low rank like E4 ,so if they can pass off to real military.then they go all out and go for benefits. That is a fact and why they pose.they want the credit and benefits free and never have to work.

Response by PO2 Steven Sparks made Jul 16 at 2020 8:31 AM

PO2 Steven Sparks — Thu, 16 Jul 2020 08:31:08 -0400

I have yet to meet much Stolen Valor in my field, Navy Nuke.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 16 at 2020 8:42 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 16 Jul 2020 08:42:28 -0400

My guess is because they get their information from movies, and the only about a support unit that I can think of off the top of my head is Sergeant Bilko, trying to pass as a soldier with a job that isn’t glorified in movies and other media requires a lot more insider knowledge

Response by Jimmi Jam Mills made Jul 16 at 2020 11:20 AM

Jimmi Jam Mills — Thu, 16 Jul 2020 11:20:17 -0400

If you are going to lie, might as well make it a big lie.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 16 at 2020 11:42 AM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 16 Jul 2020 11:42:37 -0400

Ask them a question they will say I can’t talk about that.

Response by SFC Wayne White made Jul 16 at 2020 3:39 PM

SFC Wayne White — Thu, 16 Jul 2020 15:39:16 -0400

Back around ‘03 or so, I was at Ft. Leonard Wood, assigned as a trumpet player with the 399th Army Band. Now, not all the stereotypes are true—we still have to go to basic, we had to take the APFT twice a year (and many of us were always 270+), we had to qualify on our assigned weapon, and we deployed—once to Afghanistan, once to Iraq for me. However, we certainly aren’t the door-kicking Call of Duty heroes you’ll see in combat arms. Anyway, a group of us used to hang out at a bar in town called the Twilight Zone. Well, one evening, 4 of us were there, and this dude sits down at our table. We know he’s military, he knows we’re military; you know how it is—the haircuts, the mannerisms, the clothing. He leaves to get another drink or hit the latrine or something, but says he’ll be right back. While he was gone, one of my buddies concocted a plan: we were gonna tell this guy we were SF, just for the hell of it. Guy comes back, asks us our MOS, and my buddy lays it on. Goes around the table explaining what each of our specialties were—he’s demolitions, he’s medical, etc. Guy is awestruck and bought it hook, line, and sinker. Mind you, he was an NCO with at least a few years in, think he was a combat engineer or something. Never did tell him the truth... So if an active-duty NCO can swallow a story like that, imagine your average civilian. Side note: the buddy with the scheme left the Army, went to law school, and is now a practicing attorney and member of the Missouri state House of Representatives.

Response by SGT Jim Wiseman made Jul 13 at 2021 6:10 PM

SGT Jim Wiseman — Tue, 13 Jul 2021 18:10:12 -0400

It just makes the blood boil when you see that these guys obviously just saw badges they thought were "pretty cool" and spaced them out in a random fashion, though probably measuring enough to make it look like it's in a regulation spot. "I'm gonna put this one off to the side. How can they see it if it's under the lapel?!"
Dude with CIB AND CAB. Jump wings with a star as well as jump wings. Using one badge as a tie tack... I can picture the thought process: "There's room here for this pin. Jeez! I wonder how military guys know where to put them? Is there a guide?"