ST. JOSEPH – U.S. Congressman Sam Graves today spoke with members of the 139th Airlift Wing at Rosecrans Memorial Airport.  Graves spoke about the war in Iraq and recently passed legislation which makes it illegal to falsely represent oneself as having been awarded a decoration or medal of the United States Military.

“One of the great honors I have being a member of Congress is to help constituents rightfully obtain military medals.  Unfortunately, many individuals deceitfully claim military decorations which were not awarded to them,” said Graves.  “Not only is this wholly disrespectful to those who have been legitimately awarded these high honors in the line of duty, but it dilutes the significance attached to each lawfully awarded decoration.”

Graves was a co-sponsor of the Stolen Valor Act, a bill passed by Congress and signed into law which makes the misrepresentation of military medals illegal, preserving the integrity of the medals and the recipients.   

Graves also spoke about our current involvement in Iraq. 

“My number one priority concerning Iraq is the safety of our men and women serving in our Armed Forces,” said Graves.  “We cannot succeed in Iraq without more participation from Iraqis. Trained and mature Iraqi forces must step-up and into the fight so we can bring our brave American service members home safely.” 

Graves is a fourth-term Congressman representing northwest and central Missouri.