by John Boch
We’ve all heard stories of stolen valor where defective, insecure individuals claim to be decorated American servicemen, but who are merely degenerate frauds. Sadly, I ran across the opposite recently at an estate auction. I termed it “discarded valor”.
It was quickly apparent at this auction that the male half was a World War II veteran. He stayed on and served honorably and with distinction in the U.S. Air Force, rising to the rank of Lt. Colonel and serving as the head of a refueling wing during his military career.
Among the items for sale was a Silver Star, in its presentation box. At first I couldn’t believe such an item would be at an auction, and wondered if it was counterfeit. I asked the staff and they told me, “No, it’s real. The family didn’t want it.”
Shocked, I’m sure I did a double take.
My opinion of this guy’s descendants certainly took a turn for the worse.
It certainly fit as there was a lot of service memorabilia from this guy. He led an impressive career and it looked like everything from his time in the armed forces was for sale. Including that Silver Star.
I still ask myself what sort of people have such little regard for a relative’s service – and our nation as a whole – to discard such a high award upon the family member’s death?
There were a few of us who appreciated the value of the medal and the man’s service-related mementos and so forth. It started with a $10 bid as I recall and I thought that was unconscionable. In the end, it sold for a few hundred dollars, but not to me. Someone who appreciates it will give it a good home.
…Unlike the degenerates who discarded it along with the rest of their ancestor’s decorated life history.
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