For more on connection of CSU-Pueblo to this bill, see the attached news release about student Pam Sterner. A website associated been developed to promote the legislation: http://www.homeofheroes.com/herobill/index.html

Congressman John T. Salazar

Third District of Colorado




"Stolen Valor Act" on Track to Be Signed Into Law

CONGRESSMAN SALAZAR'S LANDMARK LEGISLATION PASSES SENATE

"Stolen Valor Act" on Track to Be Signed Into Law

WASHINGTON, DC - Congressman John T. Salazar's (CO-3) landmark veteran's legislation, the "Stolen Valor Act", passed the Senate last night setting the stage for passage into law by the end of the year. Salazar introduced H.R. 3352 in July 2005 to place criminal penalties on those who falsely claim to be decorated veterans and has since worked tirelessly to create a bipartisan coalition to protect our veterans' honor.

"The passage of the Stolen Valor Act in the Senate is a huge success for our veterans and for those of us who are fighting to protect their honor," said Salazar. "It is our job in Congress to protect the honor and integrity of our veterans, to make sure the memory of their heroism is not tarnished. This legislation is now on the fast track and our coalition is working hard to have it on the President's desk before the year is out."

Current law only allows for the prosecution of imposters who wear an unearned medal on their person. Salazar's legislation will expand the law to include those who publicly claim to be decorated veterans, giving law enforcement the tools they need to protect the honor of our veterans.

"Shame on those who claim credit for acts of courage they did not commit, their lies are criminal," said Salazar. "Medal recipients are often too humble to parade their honors. By letting the phonies continue their masquerade, we diminish the honor of our true heroes. Federal law enforcement agents are willing to go after these frauds and Congress needs to provide the tools to get the job done."

Salazar developed the "Stolen Valor Act" after meeting with Pam Sterner, a student at CSU-Pueblo, and Peter Lemon, a Medal of Honor recipient from Colorado Springs. Sterner's extensive research into the issue of medals fraud and Lemon's personal story of heroism prompted Salazar to take federal action to current the mistakes in the criminal code.

Said Medal of Honor recipient Peter Lemon: "Congressman Salazar has done great work for veterans. I hope he feels justifiably proud. This is quite an accomplishment for a junior Congressman. Salazar's done in his first term what most legislators don't achieve in years. "

Said CSU-Pueblo President Joseph Garcia: "The Stolen Valor Bill is a tremendous example for all citizens to see of an individual who has taken the initiative on a matter about which she feels strongly. Our student Pam Sterner has shown extraordinary commitment in her dedication to this cause. We are proud to have her representing our institution as she exemplifies the type of civic engagement we hope to inspire in all of our graduates."

Colorado State University - Pueblo is a regional, comprehensive university emphasizing professional, career-oriented, and applied programs. Displaying excellence in teaching, celebrating diversity, and engaging in service and outreach, CSU-Pueblo is distinguished by access, opportunity, and the overall quality of services provided to its students.