For those who have received service awards, it's akin to a slap across the face when false heroes take credit – and receive benefits – for actions they never performed.

"We feel damn mad about it," Mr. Mason of San Antonio said.

Most cases involve veterans who are leading empty lives.

"It derives out of low self-esteem," said B.G. Burkett, whose book provided the name for the Stolen Valor legislation. "Suddenly there's an element of respect he didn't have before."

Other times, it's just an easy way to bilk people and organizations for benefits.

In the case of the car at D/FW Airport, Mr. Agnew discovered the owner is a baggage handler with the Transportation Security Administration. While he did serve in the Marine Corps, he was not a Navy Cross recipient, much less a member of the Legion of Valor.
The man, who has not been charged with a crime, did not return messages from The Dallas Morning News requesting comment.

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