Vet admits wearing false medals

another fake war hero

Carl Anthony Nissen claimed he had served 12 years in the U.S. Marine Corps, served three tours of duty in Vietnam and earned numerous medals and decorations, including the Silver Star. Trouble was, it wasn't true.

Nissen, of Billings, pleaded guilty Thursday in federal court to a misdemeanor charge of false wearing of medals. U.S. Magistrate Judge Carolyn Ostby fined him $250, which he paid immediately.

Appearing on a summons, Nissen said he did not want an attorney. At times barely audible, Nissen admitted he altered documents about his military record and wore medals he didn't earn.

The case was part of a national investigation called Operation Stolen Valor to investigate and prosecute those who lie about their military service to receive financial benefits or for other reasons. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica Fehr said that last December, the FBI in Billings received a tip based on the national investigation that Nissen was wearing ribbons and badges that he had not earned on his Marine Corps dress blue uniform. Nissen allegedly wore these decorations on numerous occasions while attending events sponsored by the local Marine Corps League.

The FBI got a copy of his discharge documents and compared them with the copy Nissen provided to the Marine Corps League. Nissen's document had altered information, including his discharge date, decorations, medals, badges, commendations, citations and campaign ribbons. The altered document also claimed additional education and training, Fehr said.

Investigators found that Nissen had been interviewed for a story about the fall of Saigon that appeared in The Billings Gazette in April 2005. Nissen claimed in the story to have served three tours of duty in Vietnam and to having served 12 years in the Marine Corps. Nissen actually served three years in the Marine Corps and one tour of duty in Vietnam, Fehr said. Nissen also falsely claimed to have served in Operation Desert Storm.

The medals and decorations Nissen claimed to have been awarded included the Silver Star, Combat Action Ribbon with two devices, Navy Commendation with device, Navy Achievement Medal and Navy Unit Commendation.

When interviewed, Nissen confessed to altering his discharge document. He sent the medals he wore to the FBI along with a letter of apology, Fehr said. Nissen did not use the altered document to obtain veterans' benefits or preferences.

Nissen faced a possible penalty of six months in prison and a $5,000 fine. Fehr recommended the $250 fine.


Published on Friday, April 11, 2008.
Last modified on 4/11/2008 at 1:11 am

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