While were on the subject of SCOTUS rulings, we should mention Stolen Valor. Citing freedom of speech, the court struck down a law making it illegal to falsely claim military honors.
I agree. You should be free to tell people whatever lies you want. I could claim that I have 28 medals of honor for my service in the War of 1812! You could rightly think I’m an idiot, and hate me for making light of real sacrifice and heroism.
That’s as far as things need go. We, as a society, are very respectful and reverent of military service, and lying about it is a significant social taboo. It effectively disqualifies people from elected office and brings about public shame in a big way. Why does it need to be a crime, too? Lying about military honors endangers no one but the liar, infringes on no ones rights, and in no other way impacts the general public (other than maybe making them feel stupid).
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