ST. JOSEPH – U.S. Congressman Sam Graves today presented a service award to Chillicothe resident William Hulett.  Mr. Hulett was awarded the Good Conduct Medal for his service in the U.S. Army. 

“We owe Veterans and their families every freedom that we enjoy today,” said Congressman Graves.  “I am committed to serving them in any way I can.”

Hulett was a radio operator with the 30th U.S. Army Infantry stationed in Schweinfurt, Germany when he received the Good Conduct Medal on February 21, 1962 for his exemplary behavior, efficiency, and fidelity.  However, on the ship ride home from Germany, the medal was stolen off his uniform. 

“Mr. Hulett’s service to our country is something to be proud of, and I am pleased I was able to present him with this honorable medal,” said Graves.

Graves also spoke about the Stolen Valor Act, a bill passed by Congress and signed into law which makes it illegal to falsely represent oneself as having been awarded a decoration or medal of the United States Military, preserving the integrity of the medals and the recipients.  Graves was a co-sponsor of the Stolen Valor Act. 

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